Many people suffer from restless leg syndrome, a neurological condition with irritating symptoms. However, people are unaware that they are suffering from RLS which is often dismissed as a mild irritation. Severe cases can be quite disturbing and painful. The episodes mostly happen while the person is resting or sleeping.
Characteristic symptoms of restless leg syndrome:
- Irresistible urge to flex or move your legs and a temporary relief from the uneasy feeling when you move your legs.
- The symptoms get worse when you are resting or sleeping.
- The symptoms increase towards the evening.
- Difficulty falling asleep because of the symptoms or they awaken you from sleep.
Treatment of Restless leg syndrome
Try these natural fixes:
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Exercise
Sitting down or lying on the bed for a long time can trigger leg syndrome. So, exercise seems to act as an antidote. One of the most practical solutions for preventing RLS is to be active daily for at least 30 minutes. Stretching exercises are also helpful for reducing the symptoms. Walking and light jogging are more effective than vigorous workouts.
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Meditation
The risk of restless leg syndrome can be increased by chronic stress. Stress hormones keep the muscles in a constant state of tension. Reduce stress and improve RLS by practicing meditation, deep breathing and other relaxation techniques.
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Leg massages
Self-massage or massage by another person is effective in reducing symptoms. Massaging the lower legs and other parts can help the respective muscles relax. Create an extra blood circulation to the muscles and reduce the RLS symptoms.
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Hot and cold compression
Relax the muscles and reduce the symptoms with a hot bat before bedtime. Alternating heat and cold compresses are even more helpful in reducing pain and discomfort. Choose what works best for you.
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Healthy diet
Choose a diet that provides the needed amounts of protein, essential fats, vitamins, and minerals. That diet may remedy the nutritional deficiencies that cause restless leg syndrome. Consume more meat, beans, seeds, leafy vegetables, and fruits that contain quality protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, and B-complex vitamins. Include spinach, chard, pumpkin seeds, almonds, dark chocolate, bananas, avocado, and figs.
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Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency can trigger or worsen restless leg syndrome. It is important to have a right balance between this mineral and calcium. Magnesium helps the muscles to relax and its deficiency in the body can result in calcification of smooth muscles.
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B-complex
Supplementation often helps reduce symptoms. Generally speaking, these vitamins are essential for neurological health.
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Vitamin D, C, and E
People with RLS have a deficiency of these vitamins. Supplementation can resolve the symptoms, but they have to prescribed according to your needs. In case of overdose, the side effects might be dangerous.