Restless Leg Syndrome

Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care

Pain Management Physicians & Vein Specialists located across Northwest Indiana

If you experience constant urges to move your legs, especially at night, restless leg syndrome (RLS) might be the culprit, making it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. If you experience RLS symptoms, the specialists at Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care in Hobart, LaPorte, Merrillville, Munster, and Valparaiso, Indiana, can offer solutions for relief. Schedule an appointment by phone or online to learn more today.

Restless Leg Syndrome Q & A

What is restless leg syndrome?

Restless leg syndrome, also known as RLS, is a condition that causes uncomfortable urges to move your legs.

These urges often happen in the evening or at night when you’re lying or sitting down. Moving your legs can ease unpleasant symptoms, but RLS can make it difficult for you to sleep well.

What are the symptoms of restless leg syndrome?

The main symptom of restless leg syndrome is an urge to move your legs that often begins upon resting. It gets better with movement and often worsens in the evening. RLS symptoms that can occur in your legs and feet include:

Unpleasant sensations
Crawling or creeping sensations
Aching, pulling, or throbbing
Itching in your legs
A strong desire to move your legs
Problems falling or staying asleep
Waking up feeling tired
Daytime fatigue

Restless leg syndrome symptoms can range from mild to severe. They can go away for a while and return periodically, or linger long-term.

What are the risk factors for restless leg syndrome?

Anybody can develop restless leg syndrome, but certain factors can increase your risk of experiencing it.

Some factors that increase your risk of experiencing RLS symptoms include iron deficiency anemia, peripheral neuropathy, older age, pregnancy, being a woman, or having kidney failure or spinal cord problems.

Genetic factors can also play a role in developing RLS. Sleep deficiency associated with RLS can lead to depression, chronic fatigue, and problems at work or school.

How do you diagnose RLS?

To determine if your restless leg syndrome is caused by a vein disease, your Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care specialist reviews your medical history and symptoms. They also complete a physical exam to detect or rule out underlying medical problems.

They may also complete additional testing to determine if an undetected vein disease is causing your RLS.

What are my RLS treatment options?

If your provider at Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care determines an underlying vein disease is causing your restless leg syndrome, they can help devise a treatment plan to address the root cause.

Your treatment plan may include lifestyle changes and medications that can help treat the vein disease and alleviate your RLS symptoms.

Don’t live with restless leg syndrome and the unpleasant symptoms associated with it when simple RLS treatments can offer relief. Schedule an appointment with Centers for Pain Control and Vein Care by phone or online today.