Understanding Restless Leg Syndrome: Symptoms and Causes Explained

For those who have experienced the maddening need to move their legs, especially during the night, Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is more than an inconvenience; it’s a disruptive force, robbing individuals of peaceful sleep and impacting their daily life. In this comprehensive exploration, we venture into the world of RLS to demystify its origins, manifestations, and most importantly, the array of treatments available for managing and mitigating its effects.

Unraveling the Mystery of Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a neurologic sensation disorder that causes an uncontrollable, often overwhelming urge to move the legs. Affiliated with an uncomfortable sensation (often described as creeping, crawling, tingling, or pulling) deep within the legs, RLS typically worsens during periods of inactivity and in the evening hours, leading to its colloquial name, ‘Jimmy legs’.

Identifying the Symptoms

The chief symptom of restless legs syndrome is an urge to move the legs. It’s common to experience:

• Uncomfortable sensations that begin while resting. A feeling in the legs typically begins after you’ve been lying down or sitting for an extended time. It might happen while sitting in a car, airplane or movie theater.
• Relief with movement. The sensation of RLS lessens with movement. Stretching, jiggling the legs, pacing or walking may improve symptoms.
• Worsening of symptoms in the evening. Symptoms occur mainly at night.
• Nighttime leg twitching. RLS may be associated with another, more common condition called periodic limb movement of sleep. This condition causes the legs to twitch and kick during sleep, possibly throughout the night.

Mayo Clinic explains that people typically describe RLS symptoms as compelling, unpleasant feelings in the legs or feet. They usually happen on both sides of the body. Less commonly, the sensations affect the arms.

The sensations are felt within the leg rather than on the skin. They’re described as:

• Crawling.
• Creeping.
• Pulling.
• Throbbing.
• Aching.
• Itching.
• Electric.

The Science Behind the Sensation

RLS is a multifaceted neurological disorder. It’s linked to dysfunction in the brain’s basal ganglia, a region involved in the control of movement. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that regulates muscle movement, may be a key player; imbalance in dopamine activity can significantly contribute to RLS symptoms.

A Look at the Potential Causes

While the root cause of RLS is still under investigation, several factors have been identified as potential triggers for its onset or exacerbation:

• Genetics: RLS can run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
• Pregnancy: Many women experience RLS during pregnancy, with symptoms typically disappearing after childbirth.
• Iron deficiency: Low levels of iron in the brain may contribute to RLS symptoms.
• Certain chronic diseases and medications can also be linked to RLS.

Treatment Strategies for Regaining Control

Though there is no cure for RLS, proactive management can dramatically improve an individual’s quality of life. Treatments range from lifestyle adjustments to medications tailored to address specific symptoms.

Lifestyle Adaptations and Home Remedies

For some, making simple changes to their lifestyle can reduce the impact of RLS. Research demonstrates that an active lifestyle can prevent and/or treat RLS.

Regular exercisers are 3.3 times less likely to have RLS than non-exercisers. For those individuals living with RLS, one study suggests that regular exercise reduces severity of the symptoms by an average of 40 percent.

Common lifestyle adaptations include:

• Regular exercise, particularly mild to moderate aerobic activity like walking or biking, can alleviate symptoms.
• Avoiding stimulants such as caffeine and nicotine, which can exacerbate symptoms.
• Establishing good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a restful environment.

The Role of Chiropractic Care in RLS Treatment

Chiropractic care offers RLS sufferers a non-invasive approach to symptom management. Techniques such as spinal manipulation, massage, and nutritional counseling can address various aspects of the condition, from musculoskeletal support to potential dietary imbalances. Additionally, chiropractors can provide expert guidance aon lifestyle adjustments and other therapies that complement traditional medical treatment.

Fight RLS With Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab

For those who suffer from RLS,  finding relief can feel like an endless battle. However, with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes chiropractic care, you can regain control over your life and finally get the restful sleep you deserve. Contact Advanced Chiropractic & Rehab today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you manage RLS symptoms and improve your overall well-being.