Signs and Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is classified as a sleep disorder because it creeps up on you late in the day or when you’ve headed to bed. The disorder causes a compulsive urge to move your legs (and other body parts) and other physical sensations, such as pulling, tugging, creeping, itching, aching, burning, and/or crawling.

The persistent symptoms make it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling refreshed from the night before.

At Heart Vascular & Leg Center, our team of vascular specialists understands that restless legs syndrome is more than just an uncomfortable nuisance, so we offer treatments to help you sleep better and longer. Here’s what you need to know about RLS and its treatments.

What causes RLS?

There are several potential causes of RLS, and many cases stem from genetics. According to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 92% of people diagnosed with RLS have a first-degree relative who has the disorder, and they tend to develop symptoms at a younger age than those who don’t have the genetic link.

There are also many medical conditions that have an association with RLS, including:

• Low iron levels (anemia)
• Problems with kidney function
• Hypothyroidism
• Depression
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Fibromyalgia
• Parkinson's disease
• Pregnancy

In addition, certain medications, like antidepressants, allergy drugs, and anti-nausea medications, as well as caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol, may contribute to the development of RLS or make existing symptoms worse.

Interestingly, some studies show that people with vein disease often also develop RLS, probably because vein disease inflames the muscles and other soft tissues in your legs, producing uncomfortable sensations. That means therapies designed for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) and varicose veins can be effective for RLS patients.

Diagnosing restless legs syndrome

When you come into Heart Vascular & Leg Center for an evaluation, our team asks you about your sleep hygiene, the amount of time you sleep, your daytime sleepiness, and your ability to focus on tasks. An RLS diagnosis depends on the following five criteria:

1. Have a compulsive urge to move your legs (or arms), especially when lying down, usually occurring along with uncomfortable muscle sensations
2. Symptoms begin or worsen during periods of inactivity
3. Symptoms improve by stretching, walking, or exercising
4. Symptoms begin or worsen only in the evening or at night
5. Symptoms not due to another medical or behavioral problem

In addition, we examine your legs for signs of vein disease, using vascular ultrasound to check for evidence of CVI, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or other vascular health issues.

Treatments for restless legs syndrome

Every person is unique, so the best treatment depends on your specific symptoms and their severity. We always start with conservative, non-drug treatments and lifestyle changes, especially if you have mild symptoms. These include:

• Get regular exercise
• Follow good sleep habits; aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep
• Avoid or limit caffeinated products, nicotine, and alcohol
• Apply a heating pad or cold compress to your legs 
• Consider acupressure, massage, and light stretching
• Soak in a warm tub
• Try magnesium supplements
• Reduce stress

Iron supplementation may also be a good option if your RLS is due to low iron levels.

Treating varicose veins (or other vein diseases) may also positively affect RLS symptoms. A National Sleep Foundation study found that 98% of patients who received such treatment also noticed decreased RLS symptoms.

Vein treatments include:

• Sclerotherapy
• Compression stockings
• ClosureFast™
• VenaSeal™

If you’re dealing with the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, Heart Vascular & Leg Center can help. To get started, call our office at 661-443-5524, or book online today.