Restless Legs (Part 3) Natural and Medical Treatment

We have been looking at the symptoms, triggers and lifestyle tips for the frustrating and mysterious sleep-disturbance condition restless leg syndrome (RLS) in our last coupe posts. For our last RLS feature, we will examine the natural and medical management options available to sufferers as the condition can adversely impact both sleep and quality of life if left unattended. While there is no cure for RLS as of now, there are many different symptoms management treatments to try. Different people experience success with different treatments or combinations thereof. Some of which include:

Alternative Remedies for RLS

There are multiple homeopathic and alternative treatment options available to try. Some of these are not scientifically backed or proven, but anecdotal evidence suggests effectiveness for many people so trying them out can’t hurt, hey?

• This first one may sound strange – but thousands upon thousands of RLS sufferers have reported success with placing an unwrapped bar of soap in a sock and sleeping with it under the pillow or close to the legs. While there is no science available to back this remedy up, anecdotal evidence is strong (some health professionals suspect it has something to do with the magnesium content and ions).
• Ask your doctor if vitamin D, C or E would be right for you to try, all of these have been associated with reducing RLS symptoms, but supplements can be dangerous for some people so check to see if they interact with your medications or conditions first. As your doctor (or one of ours!) about magnesium and calcium supplements as well.
• Cold or hot compresses during peak symptom intensity may help ease symptoms.
• Physiotherapy can help some people with their symptoms.
• Homeopathic doctors often recommend 12c dilution of causticum for RLS. Be sure to always check with your doctor before trying any homeopathic treatment.
• Massage can be an extremely effective treatment for RLS – especially before bedtime.
• Relaxation tactics such as meditation can help chill out your system before bed.
• Try topical OTC or herbal muscle creams or sprays to help relax the muscles.
• Try drinking sleepy tea (with chamomile) before bed to help relax you.
• Some sufferers report success with TENS machines (talk to your doctor first).

Medical Treatment Options

People with very extreme cases of RLS often find relief with certain prescribed medications that are usually used to help conditions with some similar symptoms as RLS such as Parkinson’s disease. Such medications include dopamine agents, benzodiazepines, anti-convulsing agents, or alpha2 agonists. Daily medications are usually reserved for RLS patients who do not respond to lifestyle or alternative treatment and who’s condition significantly impacts their sleep and overall quality of life.

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