Having restless legs in bed can be a frustrating and disruptive experience that can make it challenging to get a good night's rest.
This condition is often caused by an imbalance of iron, magnesium, and other minerals in the body. It can also be a symptom of other medical conditions like kidney failure or rheumatoid arthritis.
If you experience a strong urge to move your legs while sleeping, you must be looking for ways to make it stop.
If yes, then you're in luck! In this article, we'll look at 13 simple tips to find from relieve restless legs in bed.
So, sit down, relax and get ready to get some much-needed rest!
Tips to Reduce Restless Legs Syndrome in Bed
While many treatments are available for restless legs syndrome, some simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the intensity of symptoms. Some of them include the following:
1. Take a warm bath or shower before bed
One of the best ways to relieve restless legs in bed is to take a warm bath or shower before going to bed.
The warmth of the water can help relax your muscles and reduce tension, which can help ease the discomfort caused by restless legs.
Additionally, taking a hot bath or shower can help you relax and unwind, making it easier for you to fall asleep. Ensure the water is not too hot, as this can cause dehydration and worsen the condition.
2. Use an ice pack
Applying an ice pack to your legs can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with restless legs. The cold temperature of the ice pack can help numb the area and reduce inflammation, which can help relieve the symptoms.
If you don't have an ice pack, you can use a cold compress or a bag of frozen vegetables. This way, you can still get the same relief without buying an ice pack. Just ensure that you wrap the cold compress or bag of vegetables in a towel before applying it to your legs.
3. Exercise regularly
Another way to relieve restless legs in bed is by exercising regularly.
Exercising regularly helps improve blood circulation, reducing restless leg symptoms like cramping and pain. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day.
Additionally, when you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are hormones that can help reduce stress and anxiety.
If you don't have time to go to the gym, try doing some simple exercises at home, such as walking, jogging, or stretching.
If you experience restless legs after exercise, you must read this article.
4. Get plenty hours of sleep
Developing good sleep habits is essential for overall health and well-being. It can also help relieve restless legs in bed.
Aim to get 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night, which will help reduce an overwhelming urge to move your legs. Also, make sure you have a regular sleep diary and stick to it.
5. Use a heating pad or hot water bottle
A heating pad or hot water bottle is another effective way to relieve restless legs in bed.
Heat from the pad or bottle can help relax your muscles and reduce tension, which can help ease the discomfort caused by periodic leg movements. Additionally, the pad or bottle's warmth can help you relax and unwind, making it easier for you to fall asleep.
If you don't have a heating pad or hot water bottle, you can also try a warm bath or shower before bed, as stated earlier.
6. Massage your legs
Massaging your legs is an easy and effective way to relieve restless legs in bed.
This effective treatment method helps to relax the muscles and reduce tension, which can help ease the discomfort caused by restless legs. What's more, massaging your legs also helps to improve blood circulation.
To get the best results, try using a light massage oil or lotion and gently massage your legs in circular motions. You can also adopt some yoga poses to help relax your legs.
If you don't have someone to massage your legs for you, then try using a foam roller or tennis ball to massage your own legs. Massage guns are also a great way to give yourself a massage. These fitness tools work by vibrating your muscles, which can help to reduce tension and discomfort.
7. Stretch before bed
Stretching can also be an effective way to relieve restless legs in bed.
Stretching helps to relax your muscles and reduce tension, which can help ease the discomfort caused by restless legs. Stretching can be done in bed or before going to bed.
Try to focus on stretching the muscles in your legs, as this will help reduce restless leg symptoms. Common gentle stretches include calf stretches, hamstring stretches, and quadriceps stretches.
To perform these stretches, stand up and hold onto a wall or chair for support. Then, gently stretch the muscles in your legs by bending your knees and holding the position for 10-15 seconds. Repeat this several times for the best results.
8. Sleep on your side
Sleeping on your side can also help to reduce severe symptoms of restless legs in bed.
Sleeping on your side helps to take pressure off your legs, which can help ease the discomfort caused by restless legs. If you find staying on your side challenging, try using a body pillow or wedge pillow to help keep you in position.
You can also try sleeping with a pillow between your legs to reduce pressure on your hips and lower back. This can help to eliminate any irresistible urge to move your legs and improve sleep quality.
9. Elevate your legs
One of the best ways to reduce symptoms of restless legs in bed is by elevating your legs while in bed.
Elevating your legs helps to reduce pressure on your lower body, which can help ease the discomfort caused by restless legs. You can place a pillow or cushion underneath your feet and legs while you sleep.
This will help to keep your legs elevated and reduce mild symptoms of restless legs.
10. Wear compression socks
Compression socks can also help reduce symptoms of restless legs in bed.
Compression socks help to increase circulation and reduce swelling, which can help ease the discomfort caused by restless legs. They also help to keep your feet warm, which can further reduce symptoms of restless legs.
Try wearing compression socks made from a breathable fabric that fits snugly around your feet and legs to get the best results. Make sure to wear them during the day and at night while sleeping. Also, ensure that the socks are not too tight, which can cause further discomfort.
11. Avoid smoking
Smoking can worsen the symptoms of restless legs in bed, so it is essential to avoid smoking if you suffer from this medical condition.
Smoking can reduce circulation and cause inflammation, which can worsen restless legs symptoms. It is also important to avoid second-hand smoke, as this can have a similar effect on your body. If you are a smoker, quitting is the best way to reduce any symptoms of restless legs while asleep.
12. Try a natural remedy
Natural remedies such as valerian root or chamomile tea can help reduce severe symptoms of restless legs in legs.
Valerian root is known to have calming properties that can help reduce the symptoms of restless legs. At the same time, Chamomile tea has also been found to help reduce any onset of symptoms associated with restless legs syndrome.
It is essential to talk to your health care provider before taking any natural remedies as they may interact with other medications you are taking. Make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging and only take the recommended dosage.
13. Try relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation can help relax your body and reduce the pain associated with restless legs.
Deep breathing can help to reduce muscle tension and stress, while meditation can also be beneficial as it helps to focus your mind on something other than the pain. Yoga is another excellent way to relax your body and reduce any pain associated with restless legs in bed. Yoga poses such as Child's Pose, Cat-Cow Pose, and Corpse Pose are all great for relieving tension and reducing symptoms of restless legs.
Treating restless legs syndrome can be challenging, but with the right lifestyle changes and natural remedies, it is possible to eliminate sleep disorders and get better. Patients can also talk to their healthcare provider about medications that may help reduce any symptoms.
Let's look at a few of them.
Using Medications to Treat Restless Legs Syndrome in Bed
A common way to manage restless legs syndrome in bed is by taking medications. You have to make sure you avoid vitamin deficiency. Prescription medications help reduce an overwhelming urge to move your legs, make it easier to fall asleep. Common medications prescribed for this condition include:
1. Dopamine agonists
Dopamine agonists are drugs that act on the brain's dopamine receptors and can help reduce the symptoms of RLS. They work by increasing dopamine levels in the brain, which can help reduce the urge to move your legs.
If you are considering taking a dopamine agonist, it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects and any interactions with other medications you may be taking.
2. Anticonvulsants
Anticonvulsants are another type of medication that can be used to treat restless legs syndrome in bed. These medications work by blocking nerve signals that cause the urge to move your legs. Common anticonvulsants prescribed for RLS include gabapentin and pregabalin.
These medications can help reduce the symptoms of RLS, but it is important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects and any interactions with other medications you may be taking.
3. Iron Supplements
Iron deficiency can be a contributing factor to restless legs syndrome, so it is important to make sure your iron levels are in check.
If your doctor finds that you are deficient in iron, they may recommend taking an iron supplement to help reduce sensory symptoms of RLS. Iron supplementations are generally safe and can be taken in combination with other medications.
4. Opioids
Another medication that can be used to treat restless legs syndrome in bed is opioids.
These medications work by blocking pain signals in the brain and can help reduce the urge to move your legs. Common opioids prescribed for RLS include oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine.
It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of these medications and any interactions with other medications you may be taking.
5. Benzodiazepines
A popular medication for treating restless legs syndrome in bed is benzodiazepines.
These medications work by calming the nervous system, preventing nerve damage and reducing the urge to move your legs. Common benzodiazepines prescribed for RLS include clonazepam, lorazepam, and diazepam.
It is important to talk to your doctor about the potential side effects of these medications and any interactions
While prescription medications like dopamine agonists can boost dopamine levels to reduce RLS symptoms, preventing the health condition is the best way to ensure a good night's sleep.
We'll look at some lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent restless legs in the next section.
Preventing Restless Legs in Bed
Preventing restless legs in bed is key to getting a good night's sleep. If you are in search of ways to do that, here are some tips to follow:
1. Maintain healthy body weight
Keeping a healthy body weight is essential for preventing restless legs in bed.
Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing RLS, so it is essential to maintain a healthy weight.
Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks can help reduce your risk of developing RLS. It is also essential to get enough sleep and minimize daytime drowsiness.
2. Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Avoiding caffeine and alcohol can also help relieve restless legs in bed.
Caffeine and alcohol act as stimulants, making it harder for you to relax and fall asleep. They can also increase restless leg symptoms, such as cramping and pain.
If you need caffeine or alcohol, try to do so earlier in the day and limit your intake. Don't consume them within four hours of going to bed.
3. Practicing good sleep hygiene
Another prevention of restless legs in bed is to practice good sleep hygiene.
Good sleep hygiene includes going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a comfortable sleeping environment. You should also avoid eating large meals before bed and exercising close to bedtime.
These tips can help you get a good night's sleep and reduce the adverse effects of restless legs syndrome.
All these tips can help you prevent restless legs in bed and get a good night's sleep. However, if your symptoms persist, you also change what you eat and drink to live a healthier lifestyle.
In the next section, we'll look at some dietary changes you can make to help reduce the symptoms of RLS.
4. Ensure good blood circulation
Your bloodcirculation is the most important factor to prevent restless legs. By using air compression massage therapy you can easily keep your blood flow on level.
If you can keep your blood circulation flowing well, you can prevent RLS.
Dietary Considerations to Help with Restless Leg Syndrome
Nutritional considerations can be essential in getting a good night's rest. Here are a few dietary tips to help look out for:
1. Increase your intake of magnesium-rich foods, such as dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds
Increasing your intake of magnesium-rich foods can help reduce the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Magnesium helps relax your leg muscles and nerves, which can help reduce the uncomfortable sensations associated with RLS. Foods high in magnesium include dark leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard; nuts such as almonds, cashews, and peanuts; and seeds such as pumpkin and sesame.
2. Reduce your intake of processed and sugary foods
Reducing processed and sugary foods intake can also help reduce restless leg syndrome symptoms.
Processed and sugary food contains additives and chemicals that can interfere with your body's natural processes, worsening restless legs symptoms while asleep. Additionally, these foods can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to diabetes which is restless legs syndrome.
3. Eat foods that contain iron, such as red meat, beans, and spinach
Eating foods that are high in iron can also help reduce the symptoms of restless leg syndrome and iron deficiency anemia.
Iron helps to transport oxygen throughout the body and helps to reduce inflammation. With low iron levels, taking iron supplements may be recommended by your healthcare provider. You can also eat foods with high levels of iron, such as red meat, beans, and spinach.
By following this dietary tip, you can help reduce the symptoms of restless legs syndrome and get a good night's sleep.
4. Avoid caffeine and alcohol
Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is an essential part of reducing the symptoms of restless leg syndrome while asleep.
Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase muscle tension and make it more difficult to relax, while alcohol can interfere with your sleep cycle and worsen RLS symptoms. It is recommended to limit your intake of both caffeine and alcohol if you suffer from RLS.
5. Drink plenty of water throughout the day
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also essential for reducing the symptoms of restless leg syndrome while asleep.
Dehydration can cause muscle spasms and cramps, worsening restless legs symptoms in bed. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day is recommended to stay hydrated and help reduce RLS symptoms.
Additionally, drinking herbal teas such as chamomile or lavender tea can also help relax the body and reduce an uncontrollable urge to move your legs.
Now that you know some dietary tips to help reduce periodic limb movements, it's important to remember that these tips should be used in conjunction with making your room comfortable. Let's look at some tips for creating a comfortable sleep environment.
Setting Up a Comfortable Sleep Environment to Reduce Restless Legs in Bed
Creating an ideal comfort zone in your bedroom is another way to reduce the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. This includes keeping your bedroom dark, quiet, and relaxed. Let's look at just how you can do this.
1. Invest in a quality mattress and bedding
Choosing the best mattress and bedding for comfort is key to reducing restless legs. A mattress that is too hard or too soft can cause discomfort and make it difficult to fall asleep. Additionally, the wrong type of bedding can also cause sleeping disorders.
When selecting a mattress, look for one that is medium-firm and supportive. Memory foam mattresses are often recommended for people with restless legs syndrome.
Regarding bedding, look for breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester, which can trap heat and make it harder to fall asleep.
2. Keep the temperature cool and comfortable
Keeping your bedroom at a cool temperature can also help you get a good night's sleep.
If your bedroom is too hot or cold, it can make it harder to fall asleep. Aim for a temperature between 60-67°F (15-19°C).
3. Use blackout curtains
Blackout curtains can help reduce the amount of light in your bedroom and make it easier to fall asleep. Just ensure that your curtains are thick enough to block out any light coming in from outside. They can also help reduce the adverse effects of streetlights and other outside noise.
4. Reduce noise levels
Reducing noise is essential in creating an ideal comfort zone when dealing with restless legs syndrome.
This means avoiding loud noises and using white noise or sound machines to create a calming atmosphere. Additionally, you should avoid having conversations or engaging in activities that require a lot of movement in your bedroom.
Consider investing in noise-canceling headphones or earplugs if you live in a noisy area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Restless legs syndrome can make it almost impossible for some people to rest at night, leaving them exhausted and frustrated. Here, we delve into some of the more commonly asked questions regarding this syndrome.
What is restless legs syndrome?
Also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs.
It is often accompanied by unpleasant sensations such as tingling, burning, or itching in the legs. Symptoms usually occur when lying down or sitting for long periods and can be relieved temporarily by moving the legs. RLS can cause daytime symptoms of fatigue and sleep deprivation.
What causes restless legs while lying in bed?
As stated earlier, the exact cause of restless legs syndrome is unknown.
Still, it is believed to be related to an imbalance of certain brain chemical dopamine. It can also be caused by certain medications, iron deficiency anemia, kidney disease, and diabetes.
Other factors contributing to RLS include genetics, lifestyle choices such as smoking or drinking alcohol, and pregnancy. Stress and fatigue can also trigger symptoms of RLS while lying in bed.
How long does it take for restless legs to go away?
The duration of RLS symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may experience relief within a few minutes, while others may have symptoms that last for hours or even days.
In some cases, the symptoms of RLS can be managed with lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly and avoiding caffeine and alcohol. Medications such as dopamine agonists may also be prescribed to help relieve symptoms.
When should I see a doctor for my restless leg syndrome?
Suppose you are experiencing symptoms of restless legs syndrome that interfere with your daily life.
In that case, it is crucial to seek medical advice. You should see a doctor if the symptoms of RLS are causing significant disruption to your sleep or if they persist despite lifestyle changes.
Your doctor may ask questions about your medical history and perform a physical examination to rule out any lifelong condition that could be causing the symptoms. They may also order tests such as a blood test or an MRI to help diagnose the condition.
Conclusion
Restless legs in bed can be an uncomfortable and frustrating experience that makes it hard to get a good night's sleep.
While there is no cure for restless legs, certain lifestyle changes and treatments may help reduce their occurrence and intensity during sleep.
Lifestyle changes like limiting caffeine intake, exercising regularly and developing a regular sleep schedule can all help alleviate symptoms of restlessness at night. Massaging your muscles or taking over-the-counter medications might also relieve an overwhelming urge to move your legs while asleep.
With care and treatment options tailored towards your individual needs, you will be able to find relief from your uncomfortable symptoms and finally get some restful nights of sleep!
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