Research
What is new in spine research, explained in plain English. Every two weeks we pick out the most important new studies for patients and explain what they found, how strong the evidence is, and what it might mean for you.
Prefer to listen? Each roundup is also a podcast episode →
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Microdiscectomy or Injection for Sciatica? The UK NERVES Trial
A UK trial compared microdiscectomy with a steroid injection for sciatica. Results were similar at 18 weeks; injection had fewer complications and cost less.
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Surgery or Waiting for a Slipped Disc? What the SPORT Trial Found
A large US trial compared disc surgery with non surgical care for sciatica. Both groups improved a lot, and many patients switched treatment.
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Spine Research Roundup: 6 October 2026
Exercise dose for back pain, when to operate on a slipped disc, back braces, acute back pain care and mental health after neck surgery: our first roundup.
A note on research: single studies rarely change practice overnight. Please do not change your treatment because of a new study without talking to your GP or specialist.
