Restless legs syndrome is a chronic condition that causes uncomfortable sensations in their legs, feet and arms, according to MayoClinic.com. The patient is likely to feel the need to move the legs when symptoms are occurring. There is currently no known cause of restless legs syndrome, states the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. However, patterns reported by patients can help you prevent or reduce the severity of symptoms.
Step 1
Relax before bed. Take a warm bath or meditate at night in order to relax. Restless legs syndrome symptoms can be brought on by stress, states MayoClinic.com.
Step 2
Develop good sleep patterns. A regular bedtime and enough sleep each night can prevent restless leg syndrome symptoms from manifesting. You should sleep in a cool room that has comfortable bedding. Try not to go to bed when you are overly tired. Instead, try to stay mentally alert as close as possible to bedtime, according to MayoClinic.com. You may want to try crosswords or computer games to increase alertness before bed.
Step 3
Decrease the consumption of products that can worsen restless legs syndrome symptoms. Limit your intake of alcohol, tobacco products and caffeinated beverages, advises the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Step 4
Exercise moderately. Maintain a daily schedule of 30 minutes of mild-to-moderate intensity aerobic exercise. However, MayoClinic.com says that overdoing a workout session or exercising too close to bedtime may worsen symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
Step 5
Take supplements to prevent restless legs syndrome. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that magnesium, iron and folate may reduce symptoms.
Tips and Warnings
- Your doctor may recommend certain medications taken at bedtime to prevent a flare-up of your restless legs syndrome. Dopaminergic agents, most commonly prescribed to patients with Parkinson's disease, have been found to be helpful at treating restless legs syndrome.
