Non Prescription Treatment Options For RLS

Restless leg syndrome or RLS is a disorder of the lower extremities. Individuals who suffer from this condition use words such as tingling and creeping to describe the sensations that are experienced in their legs. In severe cases of RLS, sufferers experience acute pain and the sensation of burning within their legs.

Generally, episodes of RLS occur when those afflicted are lying down or have been seated for a while. In addition, occurrences can be triggered through the use of caffeine and when the person with RLS is tired.

Medical professionals have not determined the cause of RLS nor is there a cure for this disorder. However, there are treatments that an individual can utilize that may alleviate the condition and lessen the pain. One of those treatment programs is through the use of prescription medication. The other method is a non prescription treatment option for RLS. This particular option for RLS utilizes natural methods to bring comfort to the sufferer.

Substances To Avoid

As part of a non prescription treatment option for RLS it is important to avoid the use of certain substances. Specifically, studies have revealed that sometimes the symptoms of RLS are minimized by decreasing or eliminating the use of caffeine, alcohol and tobacco from one’s lifestyle.

Self Managed Physical Therapy

An additional non prescription treatment option for RLS is to give careful attention to the muscles of the legs. Because symptoms of RLS are precipitated by fatigue, it is important to strengthen the muscles of the lower extremities.

Therefore, it is critical that the RLS sufferer improve the circulation to their legs by massaging their legs on a regular basis. In addition, incorporating stretching exercises to loosen the muscles should be performed. These stretching exercises should be accomplished in both the morning and evening. Also, some individuals who experience restless leg syndrome, report that the symptoms are minimized when they run in place briefly.

Discipline

Another measure that can be part of a non prescription treatment option for RLS is through discipline. Because there is a direct correlation between the onset of symptoms brought about by fatigue, it is important that the individual who suffers from restless leg syndrome obtain the proper rest each day.

Therefore, being disciplined to practice the avoidance of certain substances, performing self-managed physical therapy and ensuring that the appropriate amount of sleep is obtained on a daily basis is critical. Adhering to this non prescription treatment option for RLS will help to control the disorder and the associated symptoms and possibly help to avoid the use of prescription medications.