Magnesium supports many important body processes. It regulates muscle and nerve function, boosts immune defenses and strengthens bones. Restless legs syndrome affects the nerves and muscles in the legs. Plagued by abnormal sensory impulses, RLS patients find temporary relief by moving their legs. If you are among the 10 percent of the population suffering from RLS symptoms, magnesium may hold a key to the cause and treatment of this neurological disorder.
Symptoms
RLS causes a range of atypical skin and muscle sensations, described by patients as creeping, crawling or tugging within the affected limb. These irritating and sometimes painful symptoms trigger uncontrollable urges to keep the legs in motion to alleviate discomfort. RLS symptoms worsen during rest, making sitting or sleeping extremely uncomfortable. Some people also exhibit involuntary leg movements that occur approximately every 30 seconds throughout the night. If you experience leg pain, aching or tingling that makes you pace, tap your feet while sitting or constantly move your legs in bed, you most likely suffer from restless legs syndrome.
Possible Causes
Researchers have not come up with a definitive cause for RLS; however, studies point to a number of contributing factors. In some cases, RLS appears to run in families. Pregnancy can cause an onset of the disorder that goes away once you give birth. RLS can occur in dialysis patients during the final stage of kidney disease. Nerve damage in the feet and hands may also contribute to RLS symptoms.
Role of Magnesium
According to the Mayo Clinic, you can also develop RLS due to a nutritional deficiency. Your healthcare provider will perform blood tests to identify which vitamin or mineral supplements improve your symptoms. Common offenders include low levels of magnesium, vitamin B, folic acid or iron. Magnesium deficiency may exacerbate insomnia, compounding nighttime RLS symptoms.
Alternative Treatment
A 1998 German study conducted by Albert-Ludwigs-University in Freiburg, Germany, involved 10 patients suffering from insomnia. Their restless sleep was associated with periodic leg movements and restless legs syndrome. The group received 300 g of magnesium each night during a period of 4 to 6 weeks. These patients experienced reduced leg movement and improved sleep. Findings indicate magnesium shows promise as an alternative treatment for RLS insomnia. The University of Maryland Medical Center says additional studies will help determine the safety and corroborate the efficacy of magnesium as a viable RLS treatment.
Other Considerations
Whether your physician recommends prescription medication or supplements to treat your RLS, you can do a number of things to improve your quality of life. A healthy diet free of alcohol and stimulants will promote restful sleep. Attend an RLS support group in your area. Yoga and meditation reduce daily stress and may improve symptoms, and regular massages relax muscles and relieve tension. Take a warm bath before bedtime.
