Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Anxieties Tibialis
Ekbom Syndrome
Wittmaack-Ekbom Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is often described as being an unexplained twitching, tingling, creeping, crawling, restlessness or discomfort of the thighs, legs and ankles.  Patients with the condition find that they have an irresistible urge to move the legs to relieve the discomfort, making rest and sleep very difficult.  Many patients find that they spend much of the night pacing the floor.  In this sense, RLS can be classified as a chronic sleep disorder.  

The condition is known by several other names, including Anxieties Tibialis, Wittmaack-Ekbom Syndrome, or Ekbom Syndrome, and it involves an abnormal function of the peripheral nerves.  RLS may be associated with poor circulation, muscle disorders, nerve disorders, vitamin deficiency, smoking, and medications, and it is said to affect 5% of the population at some point in their life, particularly in middle and older age populations.   

It is unfortunate that many health professionals are less aware of this condition than they should be, because a referral to a specialist can save years of suffering.  

What can you do if you feel you have these symptoms?  

• See your podiatrist or family physician for an examination and referral to a specialist.  

• Do lots of leg stretching, which seems to help many with the condition.

• Try massage, which is often helpful.

• Soak in a warm bath, which often relieves the condition temporarily. 

• Apply heat or ice packs, which will help many when they're experiencing symptoms

• Rest when your legs are less actively troubling you. 

• Extend rest time when driving or traveling. 

• Cut back on caffeine and smoking. 

• Consider joining a support group.

• Try prescription medications.  The condition can be treated successfully with prescription medications such as Benzodiazepines, Dopaminergic medications, or Opiods. 

• Consider a support group.