What parts of the body does sciatica affect?

Sciatica affects the lower back, buttocks and legs, states WebMD. The pain travels along the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back through the back of both legs. The pain sometimes reaches the feet and toes.

Sciatica typically presents on one side of the body, according to WebMD. There may be constant pain on one side of the buttocks or pain that worsens while sitting. There may also be burning, tingling, weakness or numbness in the leg. Pain may be infrequent, but for some it is constant and debilitating. As the condition spreads down the nerve, a person can have difficulty moving his legs and feet.