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Restless Leg Syndrome: Sensations and Treatments

Published: 2009/01/02 - Updated: 2020/10/08
Author: Disabled World - Contact Details
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Synopsis: Restless legs syndrome (RLS, Wittmaack-Ekbom's syndrome, or sometimes referred to as Nocturnal myoclonus) is a condition that is characterized by an irresistible urge to move your legs. Restless Leg Syndrome is described as uncontrollable urges to move the limbs to stop uncomfortable or odd sensations in the body, most commonly in the legs, but can also be in the arms and torso. RLS has been described as: uncomfortable, antsy, electrical, creeping, painful, itching, pins and needles, pulling, creepy-crawly, ants inside the legs, and other related terms.

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Main Digest

Restless Leg Syndrome is described as uncontrollable urges to move the limbs to stop uncomfortable or odd sensations in the body, most commonly in the legs, but can also be in the arms and torso. The condition usually makes you feel like getting up and moving around. In doing so, the unpleasant feeling goes away. Movement will usually bring immediate relief, however, often only temporary and partial. Walking is most common; however, doing stretches, yoga, biking, or other physical activity may relieve the symptoms.

The disorder affects both sexes, can begin at any age and may worsen as you get older. Restless legs syndrome can disrupt sleep leading to daytime drowsiness and make traveling difficult.

Sensations

Restless legs syndrome may affect as many as 12 million Americans. The sensations are unusual and unlike other common sensations, and those with RLS have a hard time describing them. People use words such as: uncomfortable, antsy, electrical, creeping, painful, itching, pins and needles, pulling, creepy-crawly, ants inside the legs, and many others.

RLS Treatments

A number of simple self-care steps and lifestyle changes may benefit you. Medications may also help people with restless legs syndrome. Most often, treatments are geared towards alleviating the symptoms of the condition. Generally doctors suggest a change in lifestyle and taking prescription drugs and/or supplements to relieve the symptoms. The treatment options for Restless Legs Syndrome include the following:

For cases where the symptoms are too severe for other remedies to provide comfort, doctors can prescribe one of the following drugs:

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Cite This Page (APA): Disabled World. (2009, January 2). Restless Leg Syndrome: Sensations and Treatments. Disabled World. Retrieved October 4, 2023 from www.disabled-world.com/health/neurology/sleepdisorders/restlesslegsyndrome/rls.php

Disabled World provides general information only. The materials presented are never meant to substitute for qualified professional medical care, nor should they be construed as such. Funding is derived from advertisements or referral programs. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.