Friday, August 6, 2010

What Can I Do About My Restless Leg Syndrome?

I wanted to write about Restless Leg Syndrome for those who have symptoms but don't know what it is or what to do about it. My journey with this annoying condition started after I went through chemo-therapy and radiation for cancer. The doctors prepared me that I would probably have tingling and numbness of the hands, feet, and legs, due to the treatment. They told me the condition would eventually go away once some time had passed. My hands are no longer numb or tingly, but I continue to have problems with my legs and feet. After doing some on-line research, I realized I was suffering with "Restless Leg Syndrome."

 What is Restless Leg Syndrome?

 Restless Leg Syndrome is a disorder where you have an urgent need to move your legs or feet to relieve the unpleasant sensation. It usually occurs at night when your lying down or when your sitting in a position for a long period of time. I notice my feet and legs becoming restless when I am laying in bed at night or when I'm sitting in my recliner chair.

 What do the symptoms look like?

 Those who suffer with this disorder will use the following terms to describe the symptoms: Creeping, Crawling, Aching, Pulling, Tingling, Bubbling, Restless.

 What can Help These Unpleasant Symptoms:

 Unfortunatley, there is no known cure for Restless Leg Syndrome, but here are some tips that have   helped me.

  • Warm shower or bath to loosen and relax the muscles
  • Massage
  • Gentle stretching exercises
  • Good self-Care (good nutrition, exercise, don't over-do caffeine)
  • Prescription medications are available for people who have severe cases of RLS
  • Taking vitamins or supplements to build your immune system (iron supplements have been known to help with this disorder).
  • Lower your stress as best you can