Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a disorder of the part of the nervous system that causes an urge to move the legs. Because it usually interferes with sleep, it also is considered a sleep disorder. Here are natural home remedies for restless leg syndrome
Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome
People with restless legs syndrome have uncomfortable sensations in their legs and an irresistible urge to move their legs to relieve the sensations. The condition causes an uncomfortable, “itchy,” “pins and needles,” or “creepy crawly” feeling in the legs. The sensations are usually worse at rest, especially when lying or sitting.
The severity of RLS symptoms ranges from mild to intolerable. Symptoms can come and go and severity can also vary. The symptoms are generally worse in the evening and at night.
Causes of Restless Legs Syndrome
In most cases, doctors do not know the cause of restless legs syndrome; however, they suspect that genes play a role. Nearly half of people with RLS also have a family member with the condition.
Other factors associated with the development or worsening of restless legs syndrome include:
- Chronic diseases
Certain chronic diseases and medical conditions, including iron deficiency, Parkinson’s disease, kidney failure, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy often include symptoms of RLS.
- Medications
Some types of medications, including antinausea drugs, antipsychotic drugs, some antidepressants, and cold and allergy medications containing sedating antihistamines, may worsen symptoms.
- Pregnancy
Some women experience RLS during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. Symptoms usually go away within a month after delivery.
Other factors, including alcohol use and sleep deprivation, may trigger symptoms or make them worse. Improving sleep or eliminating alcohol use in these cases may relieve symptoms.
Amazing Natural Home Remedies for Restless Leg Syndrome
# Exercise and relaxation
Another great way to get rid of the unwanted symptoms associated with restless leg syndrome is through body exercises with these home remedies for restless leg syndrome. Hence, make sure to include mild stretching as a part of your daily routine. You can also perform brisk 30-minute walks in order to train your leg muscles.
# Cut the Caffeine
Coffee, tea, chocolate, and cola can all give you a little burst of energy due to the caffeine, but they can also make your RLS symptoms worse, even hours later. Cut out this stimulant and you may find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
# Hot and cold compression
A hot bath before bed can help anyone with insomnia, but for those who have restless leg syndrome, it has the additional benefit of relaxing the muscles and reducing the symptoms. Warm compresses also have a similar effect, but alternating heat and cold compresses are found to be even more helpful in reducing pain and discomfort
# Managing Stress Level
Even though stress does not cause restless leg syndrome, it can aggravate the symptoms. Hence, look for relaxing activities or take up sports in order to get rid of the tension in your life. Yoga is one of great home remedies for restless leg syndrome and for relaxation.
# Wear socks to bed
Some experts have found that a lot of people who suffer from restless legs syndrome also seem to have cold feet. So wearing socks to the bed might will help some people.
# Healthy diet
A diet that provides sufficient amounts of protein, essential fats, vitamins, and minerals may remedy the nutritional deficiencies that cause restless leg syndrome. Include green leafy vegetables, meat, beans, seeds, and fruits that contain quality protein, iron, calcium, magnesium and B-complex vitamins in the diet. Eat more of spinach, pumpkin seeds, almonds, dark chocolate, avocado, bananas, and figs.
Such a great and useful remedy. Nice article.
Well, I walk at least 5000 or more steps a day, drink no caffiene, eat banana’s, nuts etc but about about every three days I can’t sleep at all because of the pain in my feet. I tried wearing socks to bed and it helps a little. I need some other Ideas.
You can try the hot and cold compress and be stress free.