Print Print
CKS is no longer commissioned by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). NICE remains committed to providing a replacement service for CKS and is currently reviewing its options. In the meantime, although CKS content is now not being maintained, it still remains relevant and will continue to be made available. CKS content was generated under a programme of topic creation and update. To check if the topic you are viewing is current or out of date, please refer to the topic publication details by clicking on the 'How up-to-date is this topic?' link in the left hand menu on individual topic pages.

Sciatica (lumbar radiculopathy) - Evidence
Supporting evidence

  • This section summarizes the evidence supporting the main recommendations on the treatment of sciatica in primary care.
  • CKS has not reviewed the evidence on treatments that are promoted for self care of sciatica, or the evidence on complementary and alternative therapies (other than acupuncture and spinal manipulation).
  • CKS has not reviewed the evidence on treatments for sciatica where the decision to offer the treatment is made in secondary care or by other specialists. There is no evidence summary therefore for injections into the spine, or surgical options such as discectomy.
  • CKS has reviewed the evidence on treatments provided in secondary care or by specialists when this is relevant to decisions about referring people for such treatments.

© NHS Institute for Innovation and Improvement