Jumping leg syndrome has been known in the medical field for centuries. It was first described in medical literature in the late 17th century. The neurological condition received the better-known name of restless legs syndrome in 1945. An estimated 10 percent of the U.S. population has restless legs syndrome, with about 1 million minors affected, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Altering your lifestyle and getting medical treatment can help you overcome this frustrating condition.
Causes
Restless legs syndrome may be connected to certain variations in your genes. In fact, members of the same family often develop symptoms of this condition before age 40, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke at the National Institutes of Health. Brain dysfunction is also a possible cause; disruption involving the neurotransmitters that control muscle movement can trigger restless legs. An iron deficiency in the brain is another potential cause. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and Parkinson's disease, may increase your restless legs symptoms. But they aren't necessarily the cause of the syndrome.
Effects
People with the condition likely feel discomfort in the legs that prompts them to move the legs for relief, hence the terms jumping leg or restless legs. This typically occurs at night, followed by a symptom-free period in the early morning hours. You can have restless leg symptoms during other times as well, such as after long car trips or during periods of anxiety. Restless legs syndrome does not lead to other conditions; however, its effect on your ability to get adequate sleep can have both physical and mental consequences on your daily life, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Reducing Symptoms
You can reduce your symptoms with lifestyle changes. Avoid smoking and limit your consumption of caffeine and alcohol. All three can increase restless legs symptoms. Working to improve your sleep patterns is key. Try to go to bed and get up at the same time each day. While it may seem contradictory, try to keep your brain stimulated in the hours before bedtime. Fatigue and boredom are associated with restless legs, according to the Mayo Clinic website. However, keeping your brain alert doesn't mean maintaining tense muscles. Try warm baths or yoga to sooth leg muscles, the Mayo Clinic recommends.
Medical Treatment
Take over-the-counter pain medications to reduce mild symptoms or relieve leg pain. See your physician if your symptoms become more severe or affect your daily life, as taking pain relievers over a long period of time can have health consequences. Your physician may recommend prescription drugs to control symptoms including medications for Parkinson's disease and epilepsy. Muscle relaxants and sleep aids are other options, according to the Mayo Clinic.
