The Lived Experience of Investigations for Sciatica (Version 1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Lived Experience of Investigations for Sciatica
IRAS ID
182841
Contact name
Lisa Roberts
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 28 days
Research summary
Sciatica (leg pain referred from the lower back) is a common problem that causes significant pain and disability. Many patients experience lasting symptoms that do not respond to pain relief or physiotherapy. This group of patients are managed by Spinal Specialists who consider if investigations are required and help determine the best treatment approach. In the UK, clinical guidelines suggest that imaging (scans) for sciatica is only appropriate for patients who are likely to need surgery. Patients who do not meet the criteria for investigations express frustration when clinical tests and opinion alone are used to diagnose and treat sciatica. Some patients are unable to accept that investigations are not required and loose confidence in treatment. If sciatica is to be managed effectively, the treatment offered must be acceptable to and successfully negotiated with patients.
Little research is currently available regarding patient’s expectations or experiences of undergoing investigations for sciatica. The aim of this study is to explore the experience of patients who have undergone investigations for sciatica, to gain an understanding of how patients experience investigations as part of their overall sciatica management.
This study will adopt an exploratory approach. Up to 15 patients who have recently undergone investigations for sciatica will be interviewed using a semi-structured format. Participants will be recruited from a musculoskeletal service in the South of England. Interviews will be located within the service and will be audio-recorded and transcribed. Data collection is estimated to take six months. Data will be analysed thematically. The end product of analysis will be a detailed account of patients’ experience of investigations, supported by direct quotes. The intention is that this account will help health care providers understand patient’s experiences and to plan and provide sciatica care that is effective, evidence based and acceptable to patients.
REC name
South West - Frenchay Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/SW/0247
Date of REC Opinion
2 Sep 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion