Restless Leg Syndrome, also known as RLS, affects over 12 million Americans and is a feeling of uneasiness and discomfort in the legs. RLS symptoms range from a slight uneasy sensation in the limbs up to a painful sleep-depriving experience for others. Categorized as a neurological disorder, Restless Leg Syndrome is the body's inability to relax when the mind wants it to relax. Greatly affecting quality of life through mental and physical distraction and exhaustion, RLS is treated with varying degrees of success. A number of homeopathic or natural alternative treatments exist to treat RLS.
Use Movement to Reduce Symptoms
Moving is the simplest remedy for mild RLS. Making the energized muscles work can decrease the intensity of uncomfortable sensations. Getting up and walking around, flexing the calf and thigh muscles, rotating the ankle and changing positions while in bed can all reduce symptoms. Massaging the limbs may decrease the sensation of pent up energy in the muscles. A brisk walk before bed or an evening exercise routine may be enough to stimulate muscles and release energy.
Learn to Relax at Bedtime
Relaxing both mentally and physically can alter the intensity of RLS symptoms. The more frustrated and stressed a person becomes, the more uptight they become and the less likely they are to have a restful night of sleep. Eliminating nighttime drinks containing caffeine or alcohol and reducing stimulants such as nicotine and sugar helps the body relax. A warm aromatic bath just before bed and a heat pad applied to the affected area provides both a physical and mental picture of relaxation and may be just the thing to quiet nerves for sleep.
The Importance of Restful Sleep
Getting plenty of rest is extremely important to sufferers of Restless Leg Syndrome, especially as symptoms become acute. A regular sleeping pattern (going to sleep and getting up at the same time everyday) helps alleviate symptoms for some people. When symptoms occur at specific times of the day, altering sleep patterns to avoid those times can relieve symptoms.
Seek Medical Advice When Symptoms Resist Natural Relief
Living with Restless Leg Syndrome can be challenging and natural treatments rarely eradicate symptoms entirely. Beginning early in a person's life and increasing in intensity with age, RLS is a chronic yet treatable condition. When symptoms start suddenly in mid-life, they may be a sign of another condition. Anyone living with a disorder that prevents them from functioning properly after trying natural relief methods should consult a physician.
Tags: Restless Syndrome, Natural Relief, When symptoms