What is restless legs syndrome?
Restless legs syndrome is a disorder in which sufferers experience an unpleasant tingling or pulling sensation in their legs, especially when resting. This often leads to sleep problems and a reduced quality of life. Experts estimate that around five to ten percent of the population are affected by so-called "restless legs", with women being affected more frequently than men. The onset of restless legs syndrome also depends on age, as it usually first occurs around the age of 30. Initially, the symptoms may occur sporadically, but over time the periods without symptoms generally become shorter and less frequent.
Symptoms of RLS:
- Unpleasant tingling or pulling sensations in the legs
- The desire to move your legs in order to experience relief
- Symptoms mainly occur during periods of rest or at night
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of the "restless legs" movement disorder is not yet fully understood. However, there are indications that the disorder could be linked to a disruption in dopamine metabolism in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for controlling movement, among other things.
The assumption of a connection between RLS and dopamine metabolism is supported by the fact that many patients experience relief of their symptoms by taking L-dopa (a precursor of dopamine) and drugs with a dopamine-like effect (dopamine agonists).
In addition to dopamine, iron metabolism is also thought to play an important role in restless legs syndrome. The exact triggers of restless legs syndrome often remain unknown. In such cases, experts refer to it as "idiopathic restless legs syndrome". Around half of those affected have a hereditary predisposition to RLS. If a parent suffers from "restless legs", the risk of their children also developing the condition increases.
Other risk factors are:
- Iron deficiency
- Medication, such as beta blockers
- Pregnancy
- Renal insufficiency requiring dialysis (kidney failure)
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Polyneuropathy (disease of the peripheral nervous system)
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of RLS is based on clinical criteria that are assessed by doctors. A detailed medical history and physical examination are often required.
Treatment options
RLS can be treated with medication. Non-drug approaches such as lifestyle changes and forms of therapy such as massages, manual therapies and the use of beyondRED® AIR Recovery Boots can be considered.
How can beyondRED® AIR Recovery Boots help with RLS?
The beyondRED® AIR Recovery Boots provide a gentle pressure massage that promotes circulation in the legs and relieves the uncomfortable sensations of RLS. This relieves tension and reduces cramps that are often associated with RLS. This leads to an improvement in sleep quality and general well-being.
Experience from experts
Felix Danners, physiotherapist and owner of Natural Move in Viersen, recommends the use of beyondRED® AIR Recovery Boots for RLS: "In addition to cooling gels and baths, I also recommend the use of beyondRED® AIR Recovery Boots for RLS to my patients."
Sources
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2021). Restless Legs Syndrome Fact Sheet. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Restless-Legs-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet
- https://www.naturalmove.de/
