Monday, July 18, 2011

Are You Suffering From Restless Leg Syndrome?

http://www.bridgechiropractic.​com/ 360-574-5944 One of the most troublesome causes of poor quality sleep and/or not enough sleep is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Restless Leg Syndrome is a controversial condition in which even the medical community disagrees on its diagnosis, causes and treatments.

Here’s what we know: If you have the urge to move your legs at night, which MAY include seldom painful, but always very annoying sensation in one or both legs such as tingling or pins & needles, you MAY be suffering from RLS.

Part of the problem for RLS sufferers is that there is no test for RLS.  Traditional medical treatments currently involve neurological medications and/or muscle relaxants with varying degrees of success.

Here is some information on more natural approaches:

Iron: Low iron stores in the brain will contribute to RLS symptoms so have a blood test for anemia and/or make sure your diet contains sufficient iron.

Caffeine and Tobacco: A diet low in caffeine is necessary during times when the RLS potential is worse. This means avoiding coffee, tea, certain sodas and chocolate. Caffeine can increase jitteriness and worsen your RLS symptoms. Tobacco in cigars, cigarettes and even Nicotine gum can also exacerbate the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome.

Alcohol: Another recommendation sometimes heard is to stay away from alcohol and even sugar substitutes.

Foods: Eating several small meals and avoiding high sugar food may reduce symptoms. High protein foods like peanut butter are better than high sugar foods.  Also try eating more whole grains, nuts, seeds, fish, fresh fruits and vegetables instead of processed foods especially those containing white flour and sugar.

Chiropractic Care: Many chiropractors believe that a part of Restless Legs Syndrome includes having pelvic instability, often with lower back subluxations.  Exercise is very important to strengthen the pelvis, lumbo-sacral area and take pressure of the discs. A regular program of walking can be successful. Additionally, leg stretches at the beginning and end of each day which address the hamstring muscles can often provide relief.

Assessment of your musculoskeletal health is a great first step.  Contact our clinic if you are not sleeping well or if you suspect RLS.

Chiropractor-vancouver-wa-rls

Source: restlesslegtips.com

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