Do you get a creepy-crawly sensation, tingling, unpleasant or burning sensations in your legs? Does constant uncontrollable leg movement seem necessary but provides no relief? Do these uncomfortable sensations make you lose sleep? You may have Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). If you have these symptoms, or if you have been diagnosed with RLS it may seem as if there is little information as to the cause, treatment, or alleviation of these dreaded symptoms. Over the years, I have come across several ways in which to combat the associated discomfort.
Restless Leg Syndrome is classified as a sleep disorder with multiple and varying symptoms, predominantly the overwhelming urge to move the legs. It is sometimes felt in the arms as well. Although it’s cause is unknown, and is normally associated with other underlying conditions, it has also been linked to caffeine and nicotine intake, prescription medicines, genetics, anemia, obesity and stress to name a few.
I myself, suffer from RLS and have been receiving treatment as a secondary condition of Multiple Sclerosis. Although I have only been diagnosed with MS for 7 years, I have a history of RLS going back into my childhood. It has been my experience that RLS symptoms are worse if sit and I have my feet elevated or there is pressure on my calves such as from the leg rest of a reclining chair. I have less episodes if I do not sit with my legs elevated.
When considering what proactive measures to take against RLS, one needs to note the frequency of the symptoms. Some cases are more severe than others and a prescription may be in order. For those people who cannot tolerate or wish not to take certain medications, there are also natural remedies and mineral supplements that boast good results. Magnesium, a natural muscle relaxer, is sometimes helpful. I have no first hand experience with these types of remedies but make sure you check with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
As in my case, one prescription I was given for muscle spasms is also used for RLS. Even now , I still suffer from occasional nights of sleeplessness and discomfort. I needed methods of dealing with the occasional times when my medication was unable to keep the sensations at bay. Personal research has led me to several methods of dealing with the various sensations I experience. Unfortunately, these methods are not preventative in nature and will be used to gain relief.
Stretching
One method I use when the sensations include tightness, crawling, or pulling, is to do a stretching exercise. Position yourself about two feet away from a wall. Place your hands on the wall and lean towards the wall as if you are doing a standing push-up. Hold this position for several seconds then rest. Repeat as necessary. This is similar to stretching hamstring muscles before a workout.
Massage
Massaging the calves of your legs works very well if done correctly. Start at the ankle and position your hand on the backside of the ankle. Draw your hand up towards your knee squeezing and pulling simultaneously. Continue this until relief is gained. If you have a very understanding partner, have them do the massage for you.
Analgesics
If the two above mentioned methods offer no relief, I sometimes use an analgesic rub such as Ben-Gay or Icy Hot. This treatment provides a combination cooling/warming effect, which overpowers the RLS sensations.
When the symptoms are more of a burning feeling, I find standing or walking on a cool floor or cement provides instant results. In extreme cases, a cool shower or water bottle with cool water is necessary to provide lasting results.
When you suffer from such an uncomfortable condition as RLS, you will try just about anything to get relief. I hope you will try some of these methods until you find one that works. One may not work every situation as RLS can be a combination of varying symptoms, but having an arsenal of ideas at your disposal will undoubtedly help you to be more prepared the next time an episode strikes. There may not be a cure for this disorder, but thankfully there are things you can do to minimize the impact it has on your life.
