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DESCRIPTION:
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a movement, or sensory-motor, disorder characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs that get worse during periods of inactivity or rest, or while sitting or lying down. Although up to 8 percent of the U.S. population may have this neurological condition, most individuals have only a mild form of it. Restless leg syndrome can begin at any age, and may get worse as the individual gets older.
How does restless leg syndrome develop?
Researchers suspect the condition may be due to an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine, which sends messages to control muscle movement. However, low levels of magnesium and potassium as well as poor circulation also may contribute to the condition.
Up to 50 percent of RLS cases have been found to be genetically inherited, with a greater likelihood of a genetic link if the condition started at an early age. This type of RLS is known as primary or familial RLS. Researchers have identified a site on one of the chromosomes where a gene for RLS may be located. The syndrome can also appear as a result of another condition that makes it worse. Pregnancy or hormonal changes may also temporarily worsen RLS symptoms. Some women experience RLS for the first time while they are pregnant, especially during their third trimester. However, for most of these women, the symptoms usually disappear about a month after delivery.
What are the symptoms of restless leg syndrome?
Individuals affected with the disorder describe the sensations as pulling, drawing, crawling, wormy, boring, tingling, pins and needles and prickly. Sometimes the painful sensations are accompanied by an overwhelming urge to move the legs. Sudden muscle jerks may also occur. In rare cases, the arms may be affected. Symptoms may interfere with sleep onset, which is referred to as sleep onset insomnia.
Conventional medical treatments may help relieve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome pain, but they do not address the root of the problem. Generally, by undergoing comprehensive natural medicine testing, the reasons for restless leg syndrome can be determined and the condition can be relieved.
Discover why we believe that natural medicine treatments are the best way to treat restless leg syndrome pain.
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