Abstract
Purpose and background
Research on people's own experiences of living with sciatica is limited and this study aims to contribute to a better understanding of the impact of sciatica and its treatment.
Methods
Longitudinal study based on in-depth interviews at baseline, six and twelve months follow-up. Thirty seven people were interviewed (15 men, 22 women) using a topic guide that allowed for detailed exploration of their story. All interviews were digitally recorded, fully transcribed, imported in the NVivo data management system and analysed thematically using the constant comparative method.
Results
Leg pain was considered to be difficult to cope with as painkillers were limited in effectiveness, and many people were hampered in activities of daily living, work and leisure. The need for a clear diagnosis, prognosis, assessment of treatment options and potential outcomes was considered important. Comparing the patient's own story with the clinical explanation was seen to contribute to more effective therapeutic relationships.
Conclusion
Acknowledging people's own accounts of sciatica is essential for achieving effective clinical processes and outcomes. The recognition of the specifically invasive nature of leg pain is crucial to a shared understanding of problems in daily life and in searching for solutions. Appropriate diagnosis and explanation and adequate pain relief seemed most important to the patients suffering with sciatica.
Conflicts of interest - None
Sources of funding – Arthritis Research Campaign, National Institute for Health Research.
This abstract has not been previously published in whole or substantial part nor has it been presented previously at a national meeting.
