My sister says she has sciatica. are family members more likely to get the same thing?

To some degree: If her sciatica is due to bulging discs in the back or a hereditary subtype of arthritis, then it is more likely to run in families. That being said, it is a complex disease with multiple interacting factors, and genetics plays only one part.

Hard to Say: Back problems in general can be related since you may have similar genes, but I wouldn't worry so much about that. Keep your back strong by doing core strengthening exercises and hopefully it won't be an issue.