Sleepless nights, insomnia, fatigue, discomfort these are just the beginning of the symptoms known to Restless Leg Syndrome. While doctors are often the best course of action when lifestyle changes do not offer relief, others will look to natural ways to relieve their symptoms. Prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter brands can cause side-effects often more uncomfortable than the original symptoms, tend to be addictive and/or in rare occasions can complicate or add to current health issues. With this information it is no wonder many will seek other forms of relief.
LegCalm is one natural approach used to treat Restless Leg Syndrome and Periodic Limb Movement (PLM). Based on herbs used in Chinese medicine for many years, Astragalus is used to provide balance and increase function of the body’s organs. Astragalus is also known to boost circulation and help the body absorb iron – an essential vitamin that is thought to be a cause of RLS when the levels are decreased.
Europe, like China has a treatment known well to offer relief from RLS symptoms. Butcher’s Broom, also known as Ruscus Acluteatus, can improve circulation, as well as relive the pain and discomfort of RLS and may help with many other circulation disorders you may have.
Other natural treatments include Horse Chestnut, which is used to improve blood circulation in the body. By improving circulation, PLM and RLS symptoms can be relieved and comfort restored. Zinc, another remedy, can help improve the immune system. When used in relation to RLS, it will aid in the absorption of minerals in the body, like iron and folate eliminating the chance of deficiencies. Like Zinc, Magnesium Phosphate is a well known remedy in general. Magnesium Phosphate will maintain the level of Magnesium in the body, as a lack of this chemical is found to be a cause of RLS. It is also known to be helpful in the relief of spasms, muscle contractions and involuntary twitching.
Beyond medications and natural remedies, those with mild RLS symptoms may find that prevention, or lifestyle changes, may bring relief or even eliminate symptoms altogether. Limiting the intake of caffeine, alcohol and cutting back or quitting smoking altogether can offer relief. A key to improved sleep is to maintain a regular sleep cycle, making night time less stressful, as your body will know it is time to rest. When it comes to exercise, it is recommended to maintain a regular exercise program, such as going for a walk at lunch time or after dinner can relax the body and help with sleep, however, overdoing it with too much exercise can actually have the opposite effect and increase RLS symptoms. To help you relax, especially before bedtime, when symptoms seem to be at their worst, soaking in a hot bath, having a gentle massage as well as using a heating pad or ice pack – depending on your comfort level, will help relieve symptoms. Even with all this, relief is possible, but will not take away symptoms all together.