Why do my legs ache at night? All about RLS

Woman in a white bed rubbing her legs

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), is a condition that causes an overpowering urge to move your legs. Moving helps relieve the undesirable feeling temporarily. It usually occurs in the evening or at night when you may be sitting or laying down. Also known as Willis Ekbom disease, it can begin at any age and can worsen over the years. 

Symptoms of RLS

People describe RLS as abnormal, undesirable sensations in their legs or feet. There is often some relief with movement, such as walking, stretching or jiggling the legs. Other symptoms include:

  • Legs twitching at night-time. RLS may be linked with another common condition known as periodic limb movement - it causes your legs to twitch and kick throughout the night as you sleep. 

  • Sensations that arise after rest. The uncomfortable feeling on your legs often begins after you’ve been in the same position for a long period of time. That could include sitting in a car, desk, aeroplane or movie theater. 

  • Worsening of symptoms in the evening. Symptoms may become more evident at night time. 

Causes of restless leg syndrome

There are no known causes of RLS. However, researchers suspect the condition may be triggered by an imbalance of the brain chemical dopamine, which helps regulate muscle movement. Other factors that may contribute to RLS include: 

Genetics 

Children of people with the syndrome have a higher likelihood of suffering from RLS. If the condition starts before age 40, then it may have been inherited. Researchers have identified chromosomal sites where genes for RLS may be present.

Pregnancy

Some women may experience RLS during pregnancy due to hormonal changes in the body. It often occurs during the last trimester, with symptoms disappearing after birth.

Age

Although RLS can occur at any age, even during childhood, the disorder is more commonly associated with middle-aged and elderly people. 

Underlying health conditions

There is no evidence that RLS is directly linked to serious underlying medical conditions. However, it may accompany other conditions such as: 

  • Peripheral neuropathy. An illness that causes damage to the nerves on your hands and feet, often due to chronic diseases like diabetes and alcoholism.  

  • Iron deficiency. Iron deficiency may cause RLS to worsen. Signs of iron deficiency include fatigue, weakness, pale skin and headaches. 

  • Kidney failure. When your kidneys are not functioning correctly, iron stores in your blood can decrease. If you have kidney problems, you may also have an iron deficiency and anemia. 

  • Spinal cord conditions. Administering anesthesia to the spinal cord, or lesions on the spinal cord may increase your risk of developing RLS. 


Remedies for RLS relief

There is no cure for RLS. However, treatments and home remedies may help relieve the unpleasant symptoms, enabling you to get a better night’s sleep. If your RLS is triggered by another medical condition like iron deficiency, it's best to consult with your doctor for treatment.

Some things you may try to alleviate RLS sensations include: 

  • Reducing or eliminating your intake of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco

  • Setting a regular sleep schedule 

  • Getting daily exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming

  • Massaging or stretching your leg muscles in the evening

  • Soaking in a hot bath before bed

  • Using a heating pad or ice pack when you experience symptoms

  • Practicing yoga or meditation

The key takeaway

Restless legs syndrome is a lifelong condition for many people, and unfortunately, symptoms can worsen over time. However, there are things you can do to relieve unpleasant feelings. Establishing good sleep habits is just one thing that might help. Fatigue can worsen symptoms, so it’s important that you establish habits that will help you get quality sleep. 

You should also keep your doctor updated on your symptoms and how you’re feeling, both physically and mentally. Your doctor will be able to guide you in the most appropriate treatment. 

IF YOU’RE EXPERIENCING PERSISTENT DISRUPTIONS TO YOUR SLEEP, CONSULT WITH A PHARMACIST OR TRUSTED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL TO DISCUSS POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS.

Any advice provided in this content is of a general nature and does not take into account your objectives, health or needs. The information in this post is not intended to substitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be exclusively relied on to diagnose or manage a medical condition. You need to consider the appropriateness of any information or general advice we give you, having regard to your personal situation, before acting on our advice or purchasing any over-the-counter sleep product.

Peter Shakespeare