Finding Relief For Restless Legs Syndrome

Millions of Americans suffer from an uncomfortable condition that causes restlessness and intolerable sensations in the legs: restless legs syndrome. Restless legs syndrome is characterized by tingling and burning sensations in the limbs that makes it difficult to sleep at night and creates an inability to sit still or rest. While the cause behind restless legs syndrome is mostly unknown, certain factors can increase its frequency and intensity, like pregnancy, neuropathy and anemia. Chiropractic care and massage therapy, along with electrostimulation and stretching exercises, can reduce the effects of restless legs syndrome and help you feel normal again. Find out what you need to do to begin treatment with this guide!

Understanding Restless Legs Syndrome

One of the most common conditions plaguing Americans is Restless Legs Syndrome, which is characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and feet while resting or lying down. These nerve sensations are so uncomfortable to the point that patients cannot sleep or sit for even a few minutes as they have to constantly move their legs. In fact, more than 10% of American adults suffer from RLS each year, and 2% of children develop it, as well. Restless Legs Syndrome is a neurologic sensorimotor disorder that makes it nearly impossible for people to not move their legs when resting and causing feelings of itchiness, tension, burning, cramping and the inability to sit or lay down for more than thirty minutes at a time. These factors obviously have life-changing results, especially when it comes to one’s ability to sleep. For some people, RLS isn’t limited to just the legs and feet alone, but spreads to their arms and hands. This can make it impossible to rest whatsoever, leading to increased levels of stress, fatigue and irritability. Some symptoms of RLS include constant pacing, incessant moving of the legs and frequent tossing and turning in bed. RLS typically affects both sides of the body but sometimes occurs in only one side. Some people feel restless each day while others only feel it once or twice per week. It’s also very common for people with Restless Legs Syndrome to experience higher levels of restlessness at night and then have their symptoms disappear in the early morning, allowing them to finally get the rest they need at that time.

What Causes RLS?

Restless Legs Syndrome can present itself in any person at any time, but unfortunately most cases don’t have a reason for its development. However, there are certain factors that influence its presence and frequency. Heredity plays a role in RLS development, especially if it begins before age 40. Pregnancy can increase RLS symptoms or even cause it to appear, especially during the third trimester. Typically, these symptoms will disappear after delivery. Women usually experience Restless Legs Syndrome more often than men do, but it can still develop in anyone. RLS won’t usually develop with serious medical conditions, but it can accompany issues like kidney failure, peripheral neuropathy and iron deficiencies like anemia. Age also plays a role in this process, especially during middle age. Additionally, one of the most vicious parts of RLS is the fact that the less you sleep due to RLS, the more likely you are to experience more frequent and intense symptoms. This process typically is uncontrollable but frustrating just the same since you can’t decide how well you sleep or how severe your restlessness will be each night. Antidepressants, anti-nausea and antipsychotic drugs often worsen RLS symptoms, so it’s a good idea to speak with your doctor about these drugs’ effects if you have Restless Legs Syndrome.

How To Find Relief

Restless Legs Syndrome causes a serious problem in most people’s ability to sleep and rest, which affects how they feel and react throughout their day. Luckily, if you’re suffering from RLS, there are options for you to find relief again. If a misalignment in your body is causing your symptoms, a chiropractic adjustment is often helpful to relieve the pressure and tension in that area. Massage therapy is very therapeutic, as well, as it seeks to relieve the stress in your muscles from fatigue and restlessness. You can also apply electrostimulation to deal with overactive nerves, which can keep the restless sensations at bay. Your doctor may recommend stretching and exercise techniques to train your muscles from cramping each night, or he/she may prescribe you nutritional supplements to improve iron and vitamin levels in your body. In certain situations, your doctor may recommend medications to treat your symptoms. Anti-seizure drugs like Gabapentin have shown to be effective at treating moderate to severe RLS but sometimes cause drowsiness and dizziness. Benzodiazepines are sometimes prescribed to help people overcome muscle spasms and insomnia, thus helping them sleep better at night. Iron supplements are a very popular first-step in treatment to see whether increasing those levels can eliminate your symptoms. These are often found over-the-counter at most drug stores but should be monitored as they can cause stomach aches since iron doesn’t absorb easily in the body. Do your research before beginning any at-home treatments and always consult your doctor for treatment and best practices so that you can be safe throughout the entire healing process.

Treat Your Restless Legs Syndrome With Our Help!

At Texas Spine & Sports Therapy Center, we’re committed to your physical health and can help you overcome your symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome. To schedule a consultation, call our office at (512) 806-0015. Don’t let restlessness keep you from sleeping at night. Call today to discover how you can be free from RLS once and for all!