Restless legs syndrome (RLS)

Restless legs syndrome, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, can begin at any age and generally worsens as you age. It can disrupt sleep, which interferes with daily activities.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, usually because of an uncomfortable sensation. It typically happens in the evening or night-time hours when you’re sitting or lying down. Moving eases the unpleasant feeling temporarily.

Symptoms

Causes

Diagnosis

Therapy

  • Sensations that begin while resting: The sensation typically begins after you’ve been lying down or sitting for an extended time, such as in a car, airplane or movie theater.
  • Relief with movement: The sensation of RLS lessens with movement, such as stretching, jiggling the legs, pacing or walking.
  • Worsening of symptoms in the evening: Symptoms occur mainly at night.
  • Night-time leg twitching: RLS may be associated with another, more common condition called periodic limb movement of sleep, which causes the legs to twitch and kick, possibly throughout the night, while you sleep.

RLS symptoms as compelling, unpleasant sensations in the legs or feet. Usually happen on both sides of the body. Less commonly, the sensations affect the arms.

The sensations, which generally occur within the limb rather than on the skin, are described as:

  • Crawling
  • Creeping
  • Pulling
  • Throbbing
  • Aching
  • Itching
  • Electric

Sometimes the sensations are difficult to explain. People with RLS usually don’t describe the condition as a muscle cramp or numbness. They do, however, consistently describe the desire to move the legs.

It’s common for symptoms to fluctuate in severity. Sometimes, symptoms disappear for periods of time, then come back.

If you have restless legs syndrome (RLS), there’s a good chance it’s genetic. Studies have shown that up to 92% of patients with RLS have a first-degree relative with the disorder. This means that if your parents have RLS, you’re more likely to develop it too. People with a genetic link to RLS tend to develop symptoms earlier in life (before age 45) than those without the genetic link.

In addition to the genetic source, many medical problems are closely associated with the development of RLS, including:

  • Low levels of iron
  • Uremia
  • Hypothyroidism.
  • Depression.
  • Fibromyalgia.
  • Parkinson’s disease.
  • Kidney disease.
  • Diabetes.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Peripheral neuropathy.
  • Pregnancy.
  • Dialysis.

There are also some medications that can contribute to the development of RLS. These include antidepressants, allergy drugs and anti-nausea medications. Caffeine, nicotine and alcohol can also make RLS symptoms worse.

At Kalp Health Care, our wise and empathetic professionals take a transparent and innovative approach to ensure you receive the highest quality care, personalized to your unique health journey.

  • Comprehensive Assessment: Our expert professionals conduct a thorough assessment, which includes:
    • Patient Symptom Evaluation: We listen attentively and patiently to understand your symptoms.
    • Posture Analysis: We assess your posture to identify potential issues.
    • Physical and Functional Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of your physical health and functionality.
  • In-Depth Evaluation: To ensure a holistic understanding, we consider various factors, such as:
    • Radiological Findings: Incorporating X-Ray, MRI, CT scans, and clinical correlation.
    • Lab Reports: Analyzing laboratory test results for a complete picture.
    • Medication History: Documenting past and current medications.
    • Medical and Surgical History: Understanding your medical journey.
    • Lifestyle Factors: Exploring lifestyle, work patterns, and daily routines.
    • Nutritional Assessment: Evaluating diet and nutrition, emphasizing fibrous foods, minerals, and hydration.
  • Personalized Approach: We believe in patient-centric care, tailoring our assessments and recommendations to your specific needs:
    • Climate Considerations: Recognizing the impact of climate on health.
    • Family History: Considering hereditary factors.
    • Daily Activity: Analyzing your daily routine.
    • Metabolic Assessment: Understanding your metabolic activity.
    • Exercise Routine: Assessing your physical activity regimen.

 

Treatment

At Kalp Health Care, we believe in precision and personalization, our wise and empathetic approach ensures that your treatment is innovative, transparent, and, above all, centered around your unique needs and holistic health.That’s why:

Individualized Approach: Our expert team crafts unique treatment protocols for each patient.

Unique Needs: Even if two patients have a similar diagnosis, their treatments are tailored to their specific requirements.

Comprehensive Assessment: We consider not only the diagnosis but also your overall well-being, including physical, mental, emotional, and psychological health.

Holistic Care: Our patient-centric philosophy means that:

A 360-Degree View: We take into account every aspect of your health and life that may impact your well-being.

Emphasis on Well-being: Your treatment plan is designed to address not just physical pain but also your mental and emotional health.

Prevention

Taking simple steps can help ease Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) symptoms:

    • Baths and Massages: Soak in a warm bath and gentle leg massages to relax muscles and alleviate discomfort.
    • Temperature Therapy: Applying warm or cool packs to affected areas can provide relief.
    • Prioritize Sleep Hygiene: Establish healthy sleep habits for better rest and symptom management.
    • Incorporate Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce RLS symptoms.
    • Mindful Caffeine Intake: Avoid excessive caffeine consumption, especially in the evening.
    • Explore Assistive Devices: Consider options like a foot wrap or vibrating pad for added comfort and relief.

 

Himanshu Dagar

I have been visiting the clinic for the past two years and my experience has been great. Dr. Kant is very knowledgeable and he treats his patients with full dedication and patience. I underwent treatment for my neck and back pain and I got relief after just a few sessions of dry needling. So, I would recommend everyone to visit KALP HEALTH CARE for any kind of physiotherapy treatment.

Nithya Santhakumar

At the age of 53, a back problem is scary when a doctor tells you that you need 10 days of bed rest or surgery! I went to Kalp expecting the usual steps of physiotherapy, but I couldn't even stand up straight or get out of bed without shooting pain. This is an example of not judging a book by its cover. Dr. Kant is a simple man but a magician when it comes to his treatment. He is passionate and positive about his treatment and knows the human body like the back of his hand. A dedicated team with Dr. Monika and Dr. Rakesh got me on my feet in just 3 days. This is the best treatment I could have asked for!

Vivek Goyal

Dr. Kant and his clinic are excellent in treating muscular and spinal issues - it's very clean and hygienic. Dr. Kant has great understanding and knowledge, quickly reaching to the root of what's wrong and able to provide Relief within a few sessions. I found a solution to my spine problem after seeking treatment from Dr. Kant - I had tried all kinds of treatments before but hadn't been able to find any relief.

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Who is a Kalp Specialist?

Dr. K. K. Kant is the Founder of Kalp Health Care, located in the sub-city of Dwarka, New Delhi.

There are trial & success methods to treat pain but as a seasoned  professionals, we know when and bhow to combine clinical reasoning with manual therapy, modalities, and recent EBP to restore mobility & rejuvenate life.

Dr. K. K. Kant has a keen interest in Ortho – Sports – Spine – Pelvic Floor – Foot field and advanced manual therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dopamine. There’s evidence to suggest restless legs syndrome is related to a problem with part of the brain called the basal ganglia. The basal ganglia uses a chemical (neurotransmitter) called dopamine to help control muscle activity and movement.

During an episode of restless legs syndrome, the following measures may help relieve your symptoms: massaging your legs. taking a hot bath in the evening. applying a hot compress to your leg muscles. doing activities that distract your mind, such as reading or watching television.

These long-term complications can be broadly categorised as disease-related (impact on sleep and acute exacerbation of restless legs syndrome symptoms), and medication issues (augmentation, sleep attacks, impulse control disorders, addiction and dependence, site reaction, occasionally sleep apnea, fibrotic .

There’s no single test for diagnosing restless legs syndrome. A diagnosis will be based on your symptoms, medical history and family history, a physical examination, and test results. Your GP should be able to diagnose restless legs syndrome, but they may refer you to a neurologist if there’s any uncertainty.

In most cases, the cause of RLS is unknown (called primary RLS). However, RLS has a genetic component and can be found in families where the onset of symptoms is before age 40. Specific gene variants have been associated with RLS. Evidence indicates that low levels of iron in the brain also may be responsible for RLS.