Restless Leg Relief

Restless leg syndrome is a condition in which your legs are unable to be still while sitting or lying down. Your legs may experience creeping and crawling sensations or a burning that radiates throughout the legs. Legs may "walk off' the bed while sleeping and you may only feel comfortable when standing or moving. There are a few ways to get relief from restless leg syndrome.

Good Body Maintenance

• Keeping your body fit is very important in relieving bouts with this condition. Restless leg syndrome symptoms are often preceded by a lack of movement. Be sure to maintain a regular exercise routing without overexerting your leg muscles. The Mayo Clinic suggests doing any workouts earlier in the day as late afternoon or evening workouts may increase symptoms.

  Taking warm baths or applying warm compresses to your legs can also help alleviate the symptoms. Massage is another way to increase circulation and lessen the bothersome sensations.
  Stress is thought to increase the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Develop relaxation techniques that work for you, such as mediation or yoga.

Diet

• While there are no miracle foods that can help eliminate restless leg syndrome, there are some things you can do regarding your diet to help reduce symptoms and provide relief.

  Try to eat meals at the same time, especially evening meals. Limit caffeine consumption and avoid it completely in the later afternoon/early evening. Relaxing teas, such as chamomile, can be used to help soothe your body and prepare it for bed.

  Alcohol and tobacco use have also been shown to increase the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Reduce consumption of these, especially as you get closer to bed. Keep a sleep journal that notes any changes in diets or foods that may correlate to aggravated symptoms at night to help determine if there are specific foods increasing your condition.

Medical Intervention

• As with any medical condition, it is best to consult with your doctor to determine a proper diagnosis with your best course of action. While exercise and diet modifications will not be harmful, you may need other medical interventions to soothe your problem.

  There are several types of medications that are used to treat restless leg syndrome, which include anti-convulsion or seizure medications used to treat Parkinson's disease or epilepsy. Opiods and muscle relaxants are other medications prescribed depending on a person's history. Other medications called dopaminergic agents is also used because it helps regulate muscle movements.