Restless leg syndrome is a movement disorder that affects up to 10 percent of the U.S. population. Though this condition remains poorly understood, vitamins and minerals can alleviate symptoms in some patients. For others, medication or self-help measures such as cold and hot packs provide some improvement and relief.
Symptoms
Restless leg syndrome is characterized by an uncomfortable sensation in the legs that causes an overwhelming need or urge to move the affected limb. Some people describe the feeling as tingling, crawling or aching. The sensations are relieved by movement. Rest, relaxation and sleep trigger the sensations and the symptoms grow worse at night time. Despite its name, the condition may occasionally affect the upper body and trunk.
Iron
In some people, iron deficiency seems to cause or worsen the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. Your health care provider can perform a routine blood test to determine whether your iron levels are low. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke recommends a trial of iron supplements for patients with low iron.
Folate
Folate, or folic acid, is a water soluble vitamin in the B vitamin family. It plays multiple essential roles in the body including the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of DNA and RNA. During development, it is critical to formation of the neural tube. Studies have shown that folate supplementation may help some patients with restless leg syndrome. It appears to be most effective in cases that have a genetic component and are inherited in families.
Other Causes
Most cases of restless leg syndrome do not appear to be caused by vitamin deficiency. Genetics contributes to some cases of restless leg syndrome, especially in patients younger than 40 years of age. Diseases such as kidney failure, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy are involved in other cases. Many women experience restless leg syndrome during pregnancy and the symptoms resolve after delivery. In many cases, the cause of restless leg syndrome is never identified.
