Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
Restless Leg Syndrome may or may not be associated with Fibromyalgia. It is characterized by the compelling urge to move, disturbing sensations in the legs, trouble resting, or falling to sleep because of leg or foot disturbances. Only moving offers temporary relief. A coating called the myelin sheath protects neurons and is quite like the plastic coating found on electrical wires. This coating prevents signal interference in the nervous system and is made mostly out of fats (lipids). If these lipids are not formed right, the sheath is of no use. It is defected and can get cracks and holes in it. Certain foods and supplements can help repair the myelin sheath and prevent the pain and discomfort associated with restless leg and peripheral neuropathy.
Possible Causes
Spinal Disk Problems, Nerve Problems (Neuralgia), Aspartame, Vitamin & Mineral Deficiency, Stimulants (Caffeine, Nicotine, etc.), Drugs (prescription, over-the-counter and recreational), Alcohol Abuse, Diabetes, Thyroid Disorder, Kidney Disease, Deficiency in Iron, Zinc, or Folate (but not necessarily), PLMD ( Periodic Limb Movement Disorder), Prolonged Physical Stress, Peripheral Neuropathy, Chemotherapy (a side effect of) and Adrenal Burnout (hormonal related changes that alter brain chemistry).
Particular drugs and medications that cause Restless Leg Syndrome are Cold & Allergy, Antipsychotics, Tranquilizers, Antidepressants, Antihistamines, Antinausea and Antiseizure medications.
Spiritual/Psychological causes: Self-punishment over guilt issues. Often this goes hand in hand with unresolved communication issues.
Treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome
Things To Avoid
Tobacco and alcohol have been proven to make RLS worse. Coffee, tea (caffeinated), chocolate and carbonated and sugary beverages can make RLS worse, especially if you partake of them too late in the day.
Things That May Help
Daily moderate exercise, such a s walking, and stretching can help to calm the restlessness you feel in your legs. See 'Exercise for HSPs'.
When your legs are bothering you, apply ice packs or a heating pad. See if one works better than the other for you.
Before bed, take a warm bath for at least 20 minutes.
Supplements
Vitamins Folic Acid, B6, B1 and B12 are important for healthy nerve function, as well as amino acids. Folic Acid deficiency has been linked to RLS during pregnancy.
The herb, Baikal Skull Cap may help. For more information visit www.reddremedies.com.
Taking 1000 mg of Calcium with 250 mg of Magnesium an hour or two before bedtime may help you to relax.
Low Iron and Magnesium levels have been linked to RLS.
Vitamin E may ease symptoms.
Note: PLMD (see above) may or may not be related to Fibromyalgia or circulation disorders of the arteries in the legs.
May Love & Energy Be Yours!
