This guideline covers assessing and managing low back pain and sciatica in people aged 16 and over. It outlines physical, psychological, pharmacological and surgical treatments to help people manage their low back pain and sciatica in their daily life. The guideline aims to improve people's quality of life by promoting the most effective forms of care for low back pain and sciatica. The recommendations in this guideline were developed before the COVID-19 pandemic. For advice on neuropathic pain not related to sciatica, see the NICE guideline on neuropathic pain in adults.