Restless Legs

What causes restless legs?

Restless legs syndrome is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs. When you’re sitting or lying down, you may feel sensations in your legs that are uncomfortable. Moving your legs takes the sensations away, but the condition can make it difficult for you to fall or stay asleep.

Many people develop restless legs syndrome for no clear reason. You may be at increased risk for restless legs syndrome during pregnancy or if you have anemia, which is the result of an iron deficiency.

What are the symptoms of restless legs?

Restless legs syndrome symptoms can cause you to feel odd sensations in your legs.  These sensations can include:

• Tingling
• Burning
• Creeping
• Crawling
• Twitching

When you move your legs, the feelings tend to go away for a period of time but may return.

Your South Valley Neurology provider can diagnose restless legs syndrome by reviewing your personal and family medical history and discussing your symptoms. They may also order blood tests to check for anemia.

How is restless legs syndrome treated?

The team at South Valley Neurology creates custom treatment plans to address the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Your treatment plan may include:

Lifestyle changes

Generally, lifestyle changes are the initial treatment option for controlling your symptoms. You should limit your use of tobacco, alcohol, and caffeine, as these substances can worsen restless legs.

Regular exercise

You should engage in daily exercise to keep your muscles strong and improve your blood circulation. Exercise also helps you maintain a healthy body weight and enhances your overall sleep quality.

Relaxation techniques

Yoga and massages can help relax your muscles. You can also take a hot bath before you go to bed to help you relax and fall asleep.

Medications

If these changes aren’t enough to ease restless legs syndrome symptoms, your provider at South Valley Neurology may prescribe medications to reduce twitching and tremors in your legs. If you’re anemic, you may need to take an iron supplement and make changes to your diet.

If restless legs frequently disturb your sleep, call to schedule a consultation at South Valley Neurology today.