how do you tell the difference? I know that everyone is different but I had a really painful what I believe to be a contraction whether practice or not I don't know. I was driving home I had some sciatic nerve I just spent six hours on my feet. no big deal happened before well it wasn't too bad seemed to go away then started back up when I was about two minutes from home. well as soon as I stepped out of the car it hit me. I had a really bad cramping feeling and I could barely walk. my brother had to help me inside to sit down. it lasted about forty five seconds. then I was fine and now there's nothing some sciatic nerve pain still and a little pressure. I don't understand. I thought Braxton hicks were supposed to be light and easy not so intense. and advice would be great as I'm still feeling off a little.