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How is Restless Leg Syndrome Treated?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Restless leg syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by extreme discomfort in the legs, which sufferers try to alleviate by moving or shifting. Sensations in the legs can range from creeping, to burning, to tugging, and they can sometimes be extraordinarily painful. Many people suffering from this condition constantly jiggle or twitch the legs, and have difficulty sitting still for long periods of time or sleeping. There are a number of underlying causes for restless leg syndrome in both its primary and secondary forms, and a number of options for treatment, depending on the severity.

Primary restless leg syndrome is an idiopathic medical condition, which means that it can be diagnosed, but the cause is unclear. Onset of the problem is usually early in life and very gradual. Secondary cases have an underlying cause that can be identified. Some of the more common causes are iron deficiency, early stages of pregnancy, and some medications, including antidepressants, antihistamines, and anti-nausea drugs. Consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and diet soda has also been linked to restless leg syndrome.

A glass of diet soda, which is associated with restless leg syndrome.
A glass of diet soda, which is associated with restless leg syndrome.

There are two basic approaches to treating this condition: lifestyle changes and medication. Most medical professionals recommend that patients start out with lifestyle changes first and see if the problem improves. Lifestyle changes include improving sleep habits; cutting down on caffeine, tobacco, sugars, and alcohol; checking iron levels and increasing iron intake if necessary; and exercising. Some individuals with restless leg syndrome have found that swimming, walking, running, or doing yoga have helped with the condition. In addition, use of massage and hot/cold compresses has also been shown to help.

Stopping smoking may help relieve restless leg syndrome.
Stopping smoking may help relieve restless leg syndrome.

If restless leg syndrome does not respond to lifestyle changes, a number of medication options can be pursued, and it may take several tries to find one that is right for the patient. Several classes of drugs may be used, including medications that are used to treat Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and convulsions. Some individuals have responded well to dopamine agonists, a group of drugs that act like the neurotransmitter dopamine, which helps to govern body movement. Sedatives and pain relievers may be used for people who are having difficulty sleeping or experiencing extreme pain as a result of this condition.

Improved sleep habits can help treat restless leg syndrome.
Improved sleep habits can help treat restless leg syndrome.

By working together with a healthcare professional, a patient can establish a program of care that will treat the symptoms associated with restless leg syndrome. The condition is not curable, but with lifestyle changes and medication, it can usually be minimized. When discussing concerns about this problem with a medical professional, patients should be clear and specific, and share all information about their symptoms and lifestyle so that the healthcare provider can pursue the best course of treatment possible.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon180697

I am taking clonazepam for restless legs and have done for eleven years! I found out this morning that if I take a bottle of tonic water an hour before retiring or sitting, that will work, so will try it today.

anon97259

You might look into parkinsons disease. I'm having severe problems with my arms and legs, which I hope is just RLS and not parkinsons. Good luck in your search and God bless.

anon88328

i have suffered restless leg syndrome for years. this year my symptoms have worsened, and it started with the left leg shaking violently. within a week, both legs were shaking, then my arms.

i walked as though i was on a puppet string. my CT scan and MRI scan proved normal. these movements are spontaneous and i have no control over them. the consultant diagnosed extreme R.L.S and started me on 4 mgs requip, clonazepam and citalopram.

however, although the symptoms eased, i still get these violent tremors almost every day. my question is, has anyone else experienced these spontaneous violent tremors with R.L.S., as i am not convinced that is the correct diagnosis?

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    • A glass of diet soda, which is associated with restless leg syndrome.
      A glass of diet soda, which is associated with restless leg syndrome.
    • Stopping smoking may help relieve restless leg syndrome.
      By: Nomad_Soul
      Stopping smoking may help relieve restless leg syndrome.
    • Improved sleep habits can help treat restless leg syndrome.
      By: Karin & Uwe Annas
      Improved sleep habits can help treat restless leg syndrome.
    • Cold compresses are a homeopathic way to treat restless leg syndrome.
      By: pixelrobot
      Cold compresses are a homeopathic way to treat restless leg syndrome.