Getting a Break from Restless Leg Syndrome
After a long day at work or at home, all you want to do is sit on the sofa and put up your feet, or maybe crawl into bed and pull up the covers, right? But what if, when you do that, you are overwhelmed with a need to move your legs that keeps you from being able to relax or sleep? What if that feeling makes it impossible to sit comfortably through a movie or play or keeps you awake during the night? You might have Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS).
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a nervous system disorder that causes unpleasant sensations in the lower legs and feet, leading to an uncontrollable urge to move the legs. 3% of adults have RLS. The majority of those affected are women. Patients with RLS describe the feelings it generates as aching, throbbing, itching, and crawling. Symptoms are frequently worse later in the day or at night and better in the early morning. They are also active during various seated activities such as driving, traveling by plane, or going to the movies. Movement such as walking, pacing, or tossing and turning temporarily alleviates symptoms, as does rubbing the legs but, of course, these actions make it hard to rest, watch television, or attend performances.
In most cases, RLS is idiopathic, meaning no clear cause is known. Health conditions such as diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, certain prescription medications, and pregnancy are all known risk factors. Your podiatrist can treat Restless Leg Syndrome with a variety of options including prescription medications and recommendations for lifestyle changes.
If you are worried about Restless Leg Syndrome, or if you have any other issues concerning the health and well-being of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, a visit to the podiatrist is in order. With decades of specialized education and experience, your foot doctor is the best-qualified medical professional to address your concerns. James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS is a board-certified podiatrist who has helped many patients with RLS. He can help you, too. click here or call Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 today. We’ll be happy to schedule an appointment for you to see Dr. James M. McKee in our comfortable, modern office on Solomons Island Road at your convenience.