It is the longest and widest single nerve in the human body, going from the top of the leg to the foot on the posterior aspect.

[2]: 422–4 [3][4] The sciatic nerve supplies sensation to the skin of the foot, as well as the entire lower leg (except for its inner side).

In particular:[2]: 422–4 Pain caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by a problem in the lower back is called sciatica.

[7][9] It is unclear if inversion therapy is able to decompress the sacral vertebrae; it may only work on the lumbar aspects of the sciatic nerves.

A sciatic nerve injury may also occur from improperly performed injections into the buttock, and may result in sensory loss.

According to Jewish law, the sciatic nerve (Hebrew: Gid hanasheh) may not be eaten by Jews to commemorate Jacob's injury in his struggle with an angel.