Overcoming Restless Leg Syndrome: Treatments That Work
If you’ve ever stared at the ceiling in frustration, wishing that your unruly legs would just stay still, so that you could get some rest -- trust me, you’re not alone. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be an incredibly frustrating condition — literally.
The good news is that there are treatments available that have been proven to be effective in managing symptoms and helping those living with RLS get a good night’s sleep. In this article, we’ll talk about what RLS is and explore the different treatments available to help you manage your symptoms and finally get some much-needed relief. We also discuss natural remedies that may be able to help. So if you’re ready to ease the restless legs syndrome and finally get a good night's sleep, read on!
What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?
If you're one of the estimated 10% of Americans who suffer from restless leg syndrome, then you know how difficult it can be to get a good night's rest. But what exactly is RLS?
In short, RLS is a neurological disorder that causes a sensation of itching and tingling in your limbs—usually in the legs—that forces you to move them while you're trying to sleep. This movement can range from gentle twitching to more violent jerking and kicking. As uncomfortable as this sounds, there are fortunately several treatments available for those suffering from RLS.
From medication and lifestyle changes to physical therapy and exercise, these treatments offer effective relief for the various symptoms of RLS, helping those affected get the quality rest they need. Additionally, understanding the underlying causes of restless leg syndrome will help inform which treatment works best for individual cases.
Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome
You might be wondering what exactly causes restless leg syndrome. Well, it's complicated and doctors don't always know what causes it. However, several factors have been identified that can lead to RLS and make the symptoms worse.
Some of these include:
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Certain medications like antipsychotics, antidepressants, and cold/allergy medicines
Stress
Anxiety and depression
Chronic diseases like kidney problems or diabetes
Pregnancy
It's important to note that restless leg syndrome can also affect those without any of these risk factors. So, it’s best to speak to your doctor if you believe you have RLS so they can figure out a treatment plan for you.
Natural Treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome
Do you want to find relief from restless leg syndrome without using medications or electronic devices? Natural treatments might be the answer.
Here are some of the most effective natural treatments for RLS:
Enhancing your lifestyle habits, like exercising regularly and avoiding activities like smoking and drinking alcohol that can make RLS worse
Applying warm or cold packs onto your legs when you have a strong urge to move them
Taking supplements with iron, magnesium, melatonin, and vitamin B12
Trying relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation to help you relax before bedtime
Investing in an adjustable bed that you can adjust to get comfortable as your position changes throughout the night
Treating underlying medical conditions such as depression, anxiety, and kidney failure
Getting regular massages, which can help relieve the tension in your legs
Incorporating acupuncture into your routine
Using essential oils on tense muscles can help relax them
By combining lifestyle changes with natural remedies, you may be able to reduce your symptoms of restless legs syndrome and get better sleep at night!
Medicinal Treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome
If your restless leg syndrome is severe, you may need a more robust treatment plan. Medicinal treatments can provide long-term relief, but they don't always come without side effects. Here are some of the medicinal treatments that have been recommended for people with RLS:
Prescription medications
Prescription medications can sometimes help reduce the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. The most common drugs used to treat RLS are benzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, and dopamine agonists. Benzodiazepines can be sedating, so these medications should typically be taken before bed. Anticonvulsants and dopamine agonists can help reduce symptoms both night and day.
Iron supplements
Iron deficiency is a common cause of restless leg syndrome, so taking an iron supplement may help. Research has found that supplementing with iron can increase ferritin levels—a protein involved in carrying iron through the body—which can reduce symptoms of RLS. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements to make sure you’re getting the right dosage for your body type and level of deficiency.
Pain relievers
There is evidence that pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin may help offer temporary relief from symptoms of restless leg syndrome. However, these medications are not considered long-term solutions for RLS relief and should not be taken daily without consulting your doctor first.
Home Remedies for Restless Leg Syndrome
If you're looking for at-home remedies to help you manage your restless leg syndrome, there are a few simple things you can do that might make a big difference.
Exercise
The right kind of exercise can help to relieve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome, as it helps reduce stress and relax the mind and body. Aim to do moderate aerobic exercise for 30 minutes or more three to four times a week—this could be jogging, swimming, or walking. Stretching can also be beneficial!
Reduce Stress
High levels of stress can often trigger an episode of RLS, so do whatever you can to reduce your stress levels such as:
Regularly practicing yoga, tai chi, or mindful meditation.
Taking regular breaks away from screens and digital devices throughout the day.
Getting plenty of sleep each night to rest and recharge.
Eating a healthy balanced diet with lots of fresh fruits and veggies.
Try Alternative Therapies
Acupuncture and massage therapy may be able to help improve blood flow and circulation which could provide some relief from RLS symptoms—especially if combined with the other above tips!
Tips for Improving Sleep Quality
If you're one of the millions of people suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome, you know how hard it is to get a good night's sleep. That's why it's important to take steps to make sure your sleeping environment is as comfortable as possible, so you can get better quality sleep and manage RLS symptoms.
Changing Sleeping Routines
It can be hard to change your habits, but if you have RLS, it's important to develop a regular sleep routine that works for you. Setting the same time for bed and getting up in the morning helps your body establish a steady rhythm that aids in better sleep.
Set the Scene for Good Sleep
Creating an appealing sleeping environment can provide comfort and help with relaxation. Keep your bedroom dark and quiet and use comfortable bed items like soft sheets, pillows, and mattresses. You might also consider using essential oils or natural scents like lavender to help promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Reduce Stressors
Stress can be a major contributor to RLS symptoms, so it’s important to try to reduce stress wherever possible before going to bed. This could mean taking some time before sleeping for things like reading or doing yoga rather than catching up on social media or emails. You can also try using lavender-scented oil in the bath or shower before bedtime since lavender has been shown to help relax the body and encourage healthy sleeping habits.
Conclusion
In summary, restless leg syndrome can be an extremely disruptive disorder. If you are struggling with restless leg syndrome, it's important to reach out and get help. There are a variety of treatments available and a combination of approaches may be helpful for you. The key is to find the right treatment and lifestyle modifications for your individual needs and symptoms. No two people experience restless leg syndrome the same way, so it may take a bit of trial and error to find the best treatment plan. Don't give up--you deserve to find relief and live well.