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How to deal with restless leg syndrome?

20 stycznia 2025
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a serious neurological disorder that significantly reduces the quality of life of those suffering from it. It manifests as unpleasant sensations in the lower limbs, such as tingling, pricking, trembling, or a feeling of crawling under the skin. These sensations virtually compel patients to move their legs, often leading to problems with rest.

Although the exact causes of RLS are not fully understood, it is believed in the scientific community that significant roles are played by iron deficiencies and disturbances in the dopaminergic system, but also genetic factors. The syndrome may also coexist with other diseases, such as diabetes or neuropathies.

Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle has a tremendous impact on Restless Legs Syndrome. Reducing discomfort can be aided by regular physical activity, as long as it is not too intense. The best methods are considered to be walking, pilates, and yoga, as they have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. This in turn helps to relieve tension in the legs, providing a relaxing effect.

Since stress has a significant impact on Restless Legs Syndrome, relaxation is very important. Mindfulness techniques, as well as breathing exercises and warm baths, are highly effective. These techniques should be incorporated into the evening routine to work daily.

Avoiding stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine, or alcohol also plays a crucial role. These substances can intensify symptoms, especially in the evening when RLS is most bothersome. It is therefore advisable to limit their consumption a few hours before bedtime.

Diet and supplementation

Diet plays a key role in the reduction of Restless Legs Syndrome. For many patients, significant iron deficiencies are one of the main factors contributing to the occurrence of this condition. Therefore, it is beneficial to enrich the diet with iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables or nuts.

Other important nutrients include magnesium and vitamin B12, which support the health of the nervous system. Magnesium generally acts as a muscle and nervous system relaxant, which helps reduce tension in the legs. Foods such as bananas, nuts, and pumpkin seeds are rich sources of this mineral. It is advisable to include them in your daily menu to prevent deficiencies.

Sometimes supplementation may be necessary, especially if your diet does not provide sufficient amounts of iron, magnesium, or B vitamins, which are crucial here. However, before starting supplementation, it is wise to consult with a doctor to avoid side effects.

Pharmacological and alternative therapies

In cases of advanced Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms, doctors often recommend pharmacotherapy. Treatment primarily involves ropinirole or pramipexole, which increase dopaminergic activity. They reduce nervous tension and thus alleviate sensations in the legs, allowing for a more peaceful sleep.

Another approach includes pain relievers or anticonvulsants, which also help in cases of severe symptoms. In some situations, sedatives are also used, especially when RLS leads to severe sleep disorders. However, pharmacotherapy should always be conducted under strict medical supervision, never on one's own initiative.

Support for patients includes acupuncture, as well as various types of massages. Acupuncture affects the nervous system and improves blood flow, which brings significant relief. Massages, on the other hand, help in reducing muscle tension, which further improves well-being.

Sleep ergonomics

Restless Legs Syndrome often intensifies in the evening and at night, making the creation of proper sleeping conditions foundational. It is important to ensure a comfortable mattress, which significantly improves sleep quality. The Osaka Air is the best mattress, whose multi-layered structure provides dynamic spinal support throughout the night, while reducing pressure points.

Orthopedic pillows that excellently support the neck and spine will also be helpful. These should be pillows with ergonomic shapes, thus cast from molds. They should be pillows made of HR foam, as memory foam changes its properties during sleep. It is also worth ensuring the right temperature and humidity in the bedroom, thus a proper microclimate.

Rituals such as a warm bath or gentle leg stretching can also be helpful, as they aid in relaxing the body. This in turn reduces the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome for most patients. Consistency and maintaining calm in this evening routine can significantly improve the quality of life.

Comprehensive treatment of RLS

Restless Legs Syndrome is an unpleasant condition that can be bothersome, but appropriate actions can help in alleviating symptoms, allowing for better functioning. The key is a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle and dietary changes as well as pharmacotherapy, but also creating the right sleep environment. Regular physical activity, relaxation, and avoiding stimulants are the first steps to improve well-being.

A diet rich in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins supports the regeneration of the nervous system, and in cases of confirmed deficiencies, their supplementation is important. If symptoms are very severe, it is also worth consulting a doctor who can prescribe appropriate treatment.

Suitable products, such as the Osaka Air mattress, support patients in healthy sleep. Truly ergonomic pillows are an excellent complement to it. Many patients find that improving sleep hygiene reduces leg tension, mitigating RLS symptoms. Thanks to a comprehensive approach, it is possible to improve quality of life and regain restorative sleep.

We also encourage you to explore other articles on the best sleep and health blog, as well as the Encyclopedia of Healthy Sleep prepared by the ONSEN® team of specialists. For those who care about spine health, we recommend a set of spine exercises prepared by our physiotherapist.

FAQ: Restless Legs Syndrome

What is restless legs syndrome?

Restless Legs Syndrome, also known as RLS, is a neurological disorder characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them. These symptoms often intensify at night, which can significantly disrupt sleep.

What vitamins or minerals are lacking in Restless Legs Syndrome?

Restless Legs Syndrome is often associated with deficiencies in iron, magnesium, and B vitamins. Iron deficiency can exacerbate RLS symptoms more than other deficiencies. In this case, it is important to increase the intake of iron-rich foods and, in some cases, consider supplementation. Similar approaches are used for deficiencies in magnesium or B vitamins.

What does Restless Legs Syndrome indicate?

Restless Legs Syndrome may indicate deeper health issues, such as iron deficiency, kidney disease, diabetes, or neuropathies. It may also be related to genetic factors. Conducting thorough examinations to identify the causes of Restless Legs Syndrome is crucial, to avoid merely treating the symptoms.

How to get rid of Restless Legs Syndrome?

While Restless Legs Syndrome is not completely curable, its symptoms can be managed through a combination of different treatment methods. These include lifestyle changes, diet, regular physical activity, and avoiding stimulants. In some cases, pharmacotherapy is recommended. Additionally, relaxation techniques and proper sleep environment setup, including suitable mattresses and pillows, are advised.

Which magnesium is recommended for Restless Legs Syndrome?

For Restless Legs Syndrome, the use of bioavailable forms of magnesium, which are well absorbed by the body, is recommended. Typically, supplementation with magnesium citrate or magnesium malate is advised as these forms are effectively utilized by the body, providing greater relief.

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