Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition in which patients feel discomfort in their legs when sitting or lying down. Many patients find that getting up and moving around does provide temporary relief. However, in some cases, it is not appropriate to walk around. Discomfort associated with RLS can happen anytime, causing most RLS sufferers to experience disruptions at night while sleeping. Lifestyle changes can help to alleviate symptoms of RLS.
Sleeping Regimen
General restlessness can exacerbate symptoms of RLS. Sufferers of RLS should create a calming environment that helps promote rest. According to the Mayo Clinic, the sleeping environment should be quiet, cool and comforting. In addition to establishing an appropriate physical environment, RLS sufferers should establish consistent sleeping routines. They should attempt to go to bed at the same time each night. Going to bed later and getting up later appears to relieve symptoms.
Relaxation
The Mayo Clinic suggests that stress exacerbates RLS symptoms. Performing relaxation techniques can generally help to alleviate stress, thereby reducing restlessness. Taking a warm bath can help to relax muscles and help a patient to rest. Fill a bathtub with warm, not hot, water and soak for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the water cools. Massaging leg muscles after a bath can help to promote relaxation. Also, performing meditation can relieve stress and improve signs of restlessness. Additionally, yoga is an effective way to decrease restlessness because certain poses exhaust the leg muscles.
Compresses
Patients who suffer from RLS experience a variety of sensations such as tingling, aching, burning and tension. Some patients find that applying cool or warm compresses helps to lessen the severity of these sensations. Make a warm compress by saturating a clean towel with warm water. Squeeze out the excess water and warm in the microwave. Apply a warm, not hot, towel to the affected area for approximately 10 minutes or until the towel cools. Make a cool compress by placing ice in a plastic bag and tying a knot at the top. Wrap the bag of ice with a clean, dry towel and apply it to the affected area.
Irritants
Caffeine can make symptoms worse in some patients with RLS. If a patient believes that caffeine affects his symptoms, he should avoid it. The Mayo Clinic suggests avoiding products with caffeine to determine whether doing so can improve RLS symptoms.
