Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

Restless Leg Syndrome Treathment

RLS, also known as restless legs syndrome, is a condition that affects the nervous system and causes an uncomfortable sensation in the legs, often accompanied by an uncontrollable urge to move them.

Discomfort in legs and arms
Begins during inactivity
Urge to move
Relief by movement
Worsening symptoms in evening

Restless Leg Syndrome Doctors in MD

If you experience an uncontrollable urge to move your legs due to discomfort that worsens when you try to sleep, you may have restless leg syndrome. Our highly trained team at Sleep Services of Maryland LLC treats restless leg syndrome at four locations in Rockville, Frederick, Columbia, and Germantown, Maryland. To find relief from restless leg syndrome, call or book an appointment online today.

How do you diagnose and treat restless leg syndrome?

To diagnose restless leg syndrome, your provider at Sleep Services of Maryland LLC reviews your medical history and symptoms. They perform a physical exam and may take blood tests to check for an underlying condition that may cause restless leg syndrome, such as an iron deficiency.

Then, they discuss the best course of treatment for your particular condition. Depending on your needs, treatment for restless leg syndrome may include:

Medications to relieve symptoms
Lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise
Taking baths and getting massages to relax muscles

If the urge to move your legs keeps you awake at night, don’t hesitate to call Sleep Services of Maryland LLC or schedule an appointment online for expert care.

What causes restless legs syndrome?

RLS has a variety of possible causes. Some patients may have a genetic tendency toward developing RLS. However, venous hypertension is well reported to be a contributing factor for the appearance of the symptoms of RLS. Venous hypertension is the result of veno-occlusive disease or the malfunction of the valves in the superficial veins.

You may have a higher chance of developing RLS if you have diabetes or kidney failure. It is also well reported in the last trimester of pregnancy.

Restless leg syndrome characteristic symptoms:

Begin while at rest: The urge to move your legs is triggered after lying down or sitting for an extended time, such as in a car or movie theater.
Worsen in the evening: Symptoms of RLS primarily occur at night.
Include nighttime leg twitching: Legs twitch and/or kick while you fall asleep and throughout the night, causing sleep deprivation and daytime fatigue.
Include unpleasant sensations: People with RLS may experience unpleasant sensations in their legs such as aching, throbbing, crawling, pulling, and itching.
Are relieved by moving: The need to move your legs may get better when you stretch or walk.