Restless Legs

   Restless leg syndrome is characterized by the spontaneous, continuous urge to move the legs and is typically accompanied by uncomfortable sensations, e.g., cramping, soreness, creeping or crawling sensation in the lower legs/feet, which can vary in severity from mild discomfort to severe pain. It tends to occur most frequently during rest, creating the additional problem of poor sleep quality and/or quantity ^1,2. This syndrome is three times more common in people with MS than in the general population ³.

     Movement generally offers temporary relief from the symptoms of restless legs, with walking, stretching, and yoga being favored immediate choices. In addition to such acute treatment, performing a regular exercise program – e.g., comprising resistance- and aerobic-based moves, as well as stretching/yoga just prior to sleep – of moderate intensity may help reduce future symptoms and limit related sleep disruption. The key here is moderation, as there may be limitations due to MS itself, and excessive exercise has been reported by some to aggravate restless leg symptoms ⁴.

     If home-based efforts do not bring sufficient relief, it is recommended to consult a professional such as an exercise physiologist or physical therapist.

References

1. Deriu M, Cossu G, Molari A, et al. Restless legs syndrome in multiple sclerosis: a case-control study. Mov Disord. Apr 15 2009;24(5):697-701. doi:10.1002/mds.22431

2. Moreira NC, Damasceno RS, Medeiros CA, et al. Restless leg syndrome, sleep quality and fatigue in multiple sclerosis patients. Braz J Med Biol Res. Oct 2008;41(10):932-7. doi:10.1590/s0100-879×2008001000017

3. Manconi M, Fabbrini M, Bonanni E, et al. High prevalence of restless legs syndrome in multiple sclerosis. Eur J Neurol. May 2007;14(5):534-9. doi:10.1111/j.1468-1331.2007.01740.x

4. Aukerman MM, Aukerman D, Bayard M, Tudiver F, Thorp L, Bailey B. Exercise and restless legs syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. J Am Board Fam Med. Sep-Oct 2006;19(5):487-93. doi:10.3122/jabfm.19.5.487