Restless Leg Syndrome

What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Are you kept awake at night with irresistible urges to move your legs; a “creeping” feeling in the legs; persistent leg movement during sleep; or tingling, burning, aching or numbness of the legs? This is known as Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and is said to affect as much as 15% of the population.

The symptoms of RLS are worse at night or during periods of relaxation, such as lying down during the day. Symptoms can disrupt not only your sleep but the sleep of your bed partner as well.

RLS and Varicose Veins

Venous insufficiency is an often-overlooked cause of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Several studies indicate significant overlap, with as many as 22% of those with RLS also suffering from venous insufficiency. When restless legs occur with venous insufficiency, we can improve symptoms significantly by treating the varicose veins.

A study published in the Journal of Phlebology reported that in patients with both RLS and venous disease, 98 percent had their RLS symptoms relieved with varicose vein treatment and 80 percent of experienced long-term relief. If you are diagnosed with underlying venous disease and you have restless legs, there is hope. The first step is a simple office evaluation and noninvasive duplex ultrasound of your legs.

Treating Restless Leg Syndrome

We recommend that anyone who suffers from the symptoms of RLS schedule a consultation with Region Vein.

During this consultation, we will perform a diagnostic ultrasound assessment. This will help us determine whether you are suffering from venous insufficiency. If you are, we will plan a course of treatment for the varicose veins, which usually includes a combination of treatments to eliminate the abnormal veins.

How Do I Know If I Have Restless Leg Syndrome?

Are you having trouble sleeping at night because of an uncomfortable sensation in your legs?  Do you feel the need to move your legs in order to relieve the sensation?

People with RLS feel the irresistible urge to move, which is accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in their lower limbs. The sensations in their legs are often difficult to define but may be described as aching throbbing, pulling, itching, crawling, or creeping.

If this sounds like you, you will want to call us at (219) 595-3095 to schedule a consultation.