On February 27, Pope Francis, 84, canceled a scheduled meal for what the Vatican press office described as a “slight imposition,” denying rumors that the pontiff could have contracted Covid-19.
He was later seen coughing, sneezing and speaking in a hoarse voice.
Pope Francis first revealed that he had sciatica (a herniated disc of the spine) during an in-flight press conference during a visit to Brazil in 2013.
“The worst thing that happened – excuse me – was a sciatica attack – indeed! – which I had in the first month, because I was sitting in an armchair to do interviews and it hurt me “, said Francis., when he was asked which is the worst part of the Pope.” Sciatica is very painful, very painful! I don’t want anyone! “He added.
On August 10, 2017, he announced that he is able to cope with this condition. The Vatican later confirmed that the pope had undergone treatment, including massages and injections twice a week, to reduce leg pain.
The pope will be replaced by Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, for the end-of-year Vespers service on Thursday, and the New Year’s Liturgy will be celebrated by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. Pope Francis will continue to lead the Angelus prayer on Friday, as planned.