Restless Leg Syndrome Alternative Medication & Treatment

Restless leg syndrome, also known as RLS, is a non life-threatening condition that is characterized by an uneasy feeling in the legs. It generally strikes when you are in a seated or lying position for a long time, such as during sleep. The symptoms that occur with RLS can also be felt in the arms, and they include a burning sensation, aching, tingling and twitching. The first line of defense in treating RLS are lifestyle changes, including some alternative medications.

Massage

• When the legs are feeling tense, the symptoms of restless leg syndrome can be exacerbated. A way to relax your legs is by taking a warm bath and massaging them. You can also alternate putting hold and cold packs on your limbs to relieve any irritable sensations.

Exercise

• Exercise can have a major impact on restless leg syndrome. It can help reduce stress, it can ease muscle tension, it releases endorphins and it also promotes deep sleeping. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise a day. This can be weight training, running, biking, swimming, stair-stepping or rowing. Make sure that it involves the legs. If you are going to exercise right before bed, keep the intensity mild.

Caffeine

• Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause nervousness, an elevated heart rate and an increase in energy. But it can also lead to restlessness, which is the last thing you want if you have restless leg syndrome. Avoid coffee, chocolate, tea, soda, energy drinks or any other food or beverage that has caffeine in it.

Mind/Body Exercise

• Stress is a contributing factor to restless leg syndrome. In order to reduce your stress levels, partake in some form of mind/body balancing activity. Some examples are yoga, tai-chi, meditative breathing and muscle relaxation. The best time to perform this activity is right before you go to sleep.

Supplements

• Restless leg syndrome can also be treated with various vitamin supplements. Iron for example, is said to help treat restless leg syndrome in the elderly, according to a study done at the Department of Geriatric Medicine of the Royal Liverpool at Liverpool University in the UK. Other supplements that can be used to treat restless leg syndrome include folic acid, 5-HTP, the B-complex of vitamins and vitamin E.

  There are also some homeopathic remedies that can be used to treat restless leg syndrome. Some of these include rhus tox, aconite, causticum, sulphur, ignatia and zincum net.