I had a touch of sciatica yesterday following about two weeks after a pulled muscle in my back. Best thing for it is to walk around frequently and keep doing stretches of the back and hamstrings.
I like my Montrail Splitters. They are very comfortable. They are perhaps better on cracks than face climbing depending on how you size them, of course.
The Mountaineers Everett Branch is planning on working on some climbers trails in Darrington on National Trails Day, June 3rd. We'll be focusing on the Eightmile Trail (Three O'Clock Rock) and possibly the Copper Creek Trail (Green Giant Buttress). Contact me if you are interested.
See this thread.
Also this one.
Remember, you only really need half a rack, because you can borrow from your classmates.
The following will get you started:
Nuts from #4 to #11
Odd or Even hexes from #4 to #10
3 cams from 1-3"
Pink and red Tricams