The symptoms vary in frequency from once a month or year to daily and the severity ranges from mildly annoying to disabling.
RLS can be diagnosed by a medical practitioner using symptom patterns that meet the following five essential criteria
The diagnosis of (RLS) is based on the following symptoms established by the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group:
-
“An urge to move the legs usually but not always accompanied by or felt to be caused by uncomfortable and unpleasant sensations in the legs. “
-
“The urge to move the legs and any accompanying unpleasant sensations begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity such as lying down or sitting.”
-
“ The urge to move the legs and any accompanying unpleasant sensations are partially or totally relieved by movement, such as walking or stretching, at least as long as the activity continues.”
-
“The urge to move the legs and any accompanying unpleasant sensations during rest or inactivity only occur or are worse in the evening or night than during the day.”
-
“The occurrence of the above features are not solely accounted for as symptoms primary to another medical or a behavioral condition (e.g., myalgia, venous stasis, leg edema, arthritis, leg cramps, positional discomfort, habitual foot tapping).”
Treatment Options
Sometimes, treating an underlying condition, such as iron deficiency, greatly relieves symptoms of RLS. However, take iron supplements only with medical supervision and after your doctor has checked your blood-iron level.If you have RLS symptoms without any associated condition, treatment consists of focusing on lifestyle changes which help relieve the discomfort without the need for medication. These can include:
- Taking baths and massages. Soaking in a warm bath with salts and massaging your legs can help to relax your muscles.
- Get a good nights sleep. Fatigue tends to increase symptoms of RLS, so it's important that you get into a good sleep practice. Ideally, have a cool, quiet, comfortable sleeping environment; go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday and get a solid seven (at least!) hours of sleep nightly.
- Exercise. Getting regular exercise may relieve symptoms of RLS, but overdoing it or working out too late in the day may intensify some symptoms.
- Avoid caffeine. Sometimes cutting back on caffeine may help RLS. Avoid caffeine-containing products, including chocolate, coffee, tea and soft drinks, try this for a few weeks to see if it helps.
Acupressure Mats for Restless Legs
The spikes on an acupressure mat can help to relieve the tingling sensation felt in the feet and legs on someone with RLS.The Dakini Wellness Acupressure Set has been developed to help this is exact symptom. Our exclusive “mini mat” is made with no foam inner which means the user is able to enjoy an increase in intensity on specific areas when needed.
Simply place the mini mat underneath your legs when laying down or under your feet whilst sitting or standing to really target that uncomfortably annoying tingling sensation that only someone who suffers from RLS will know about!