What Is Restless Leg Syndrome? Symptoms, Causes & Relief Options
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs—typically due to uncomfortable sensations. These symptoms often worsen in the evening or at night when you're resting, making it difficult to relax or sleep.
What Does Restless Leg Syndrome Feel Like?
People with RLS commonly describe the sensation as:
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Crawling, tingling, or pulling feelings in the legs
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A strong need to move the legs to relieve discomfort
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Symptoms that improve temporarily with movement like walking or stretching
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Disturbed sleep or difficulty falling asleep due to leg discomfort
RLS can range from mild to severe and may significantly affect quality of life.
Common Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome
While the exact cause of RLS isn't always clear, several factors may contribute:
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Genetics: Up to 50% of people with RLS have a family history.
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Iron deficiency: Low levels of iron in the brain are strongly linked to RLS symptoms.
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Chronic conditions: Diabetes, kidney disease, and peripheral neuropathy can increase risk.
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Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, may trigger temporary RLS.
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Certain medications: Some antidepressants and antihistamines may worsen symptoms.
How Is Restless Leg Syndrome Diagnosed?
RLS is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and patient history. A doctor may:
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Ask about your sensations, triggers, and sleep patterns
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Review your medications and health history
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Order blood tests to check for iron or vitamin deficiencies
There is no single test for RLS, so tracking your symptoms in a symptom journal can be helpful for diagnosis and management.
Effective Treatments and Relief Options
The goal of RLS treatment is to manage symptoms and improve sleep. Options include:
1. Lifestyle Changes
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Establish a consistent sleep schedule
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Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
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Regular exercise and stretching
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Warm baths or leg massages before bedtime
2. Medical Therapies
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Iron supplements if iron deficiency is detected
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Prescription medications to regulate dopamine or nerve signals
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Compression and pressure-based devices like Restiffic®—a targeted foot wrap clinically shown to help relieve RLS symptoms by applying pressure to specific points on the foot
3. Supportive Tools
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Keeping a daily symptom journal
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Talking with a healthcare provider about changes in sleep or symptoms
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Joining an RLS support group or community
How Common Is RLS?
RLS affects an estimated 7–10% of the U.S. population—that’s nearly 30 million Americans. Despite its prevalence, it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. If you're struggling with symptoms of restless legs, you're not alone—and there are treatment options available to help you find relief.
