- Health A to Z
Treatment
There is no known cure for restless leg syndrome.
Treatment is aimed at reducing stress and helping the muscles relax. The following techniques may help:
- Warm baths
- Gentle stretching exercises
- Massage
Low doses of pramipexole or ropinirole (Requip) can be very effective at controlling symptoms in some people.
If your sleep is severely disrupted, your health care provider may prescribe medications such as Sinemet (an anti-Parkinson's medication), gabapentin and pregabalin, or tranquilizers such as clonazepam. However, these medications may cause daytime sleepiness.
Patients with iron deficiency will receive iron supplements.
Low doses of narcotics may sometimes relieve symptoms of restless leg syndrome.
Expectations (prognosis)
Restless leg syndrome is not dangerous or life-threatening, and it is not a sign of a serious disorder. However, it can be uncomfortable and disrupt your sleep.
Complications
Insomnia may occur.
Calling your health care provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
- You have symptoms of restless leg syndrome
- Your sleep is disrupted
Prevention
Techniques to promote muscle relaxation and stress reduction may reduce the incidence of restless leg syndrome in people prone to the condition.
References
Bayard M, Avonda T, Wadzinski J., Am Fam Physician. 2008 Jul 15;78(2):243
Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007
Kushida CA. Clinical presentation, diagnosis, and quality of life issues in restless legs syndrome. Am J Med. January 2007;120(1 Suppl 1):S4-S12.
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Reviewer Info: Luc Jasmin, MD, PhD, Departments of Anatomy Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.; ADAM Health Illustrated Encyclopedia, 08/28/2009 |
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