Restless Leg Syndrome - How To Treat It (RLS)

[@davidpescod7573]

I’ve known some people who suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome, particularly at night, finding it very difficult to sleep. When each mentioned the condition to a doctor they were dismissed. I’m certain many of your viewers will appreciate greatly the way you have explained the condition, the effects and suggesting various treatments, and a very big thanks to Dr Weening for sharing his experience of coping with Restless Leg Syndrome. Another brilliant video, Docs, for which many thanks

[@brucemc777]

They are quite correct, the five or so conditions were exactly what i experienced, my doctor didn’t understand it either and took personal research to introduce the concept to him. As you might read in my comment after yours, my solution was a change in diet. I should have also noted getting off of regular doses of pain meds, rx and otc) in the afternoons (i need to go back and edit…)

[@janet4735]

I was told to take Magensum & Alpha La price acid it workd

[@janet4735]

poic

[@ooohlaa13]

@@janet4735 so can u share the products you use and a link for the source? i think you meant alpha lipoic acid?

[@catalinababy6068]

I have it so bad that I'm up watching this video to find out how I can get help it's driving me crazy I'm so tired I can't sleep and the less sleep you get the worst you get

[@millenniumvividium5535]

Not sure but i think i have tracked my RLS down to consumption of sugar products. I have recently cut out as much sugar from my diet as possible and, although my RLS still kicks in at night, my episodes are much shorter and often go after a sip of water or two. I also try to eat some greens just before bed like spinach of savoy cabbage etc. It is low calorie so eating before bed is not an issue. Doing those above things has improved my RLS attacks significantly.

[@dandickerson8126]

I too had restless leg syndrome and was instructed to take magnesium to end the suffering. Since taking the magnesium I have had no symptoms. It may not work for you, but for me, it was a simple inexpensive miracle. No more pramipexole for me.

[@craigr2152]

I had restless legs really bad too. I tried most of the recommended things, but none worked. Then, I tried Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and that worked. I was so happy that something finally helped. Good luck!

[@barbaraortiz418]

A rugyuibf fuckn hell k!!

[@rousefire]

I take a puff from a vape pen of thc/cbd 1 to 1 ratio and it works great. Last night I had RLS extremely bad, took a hit and the relief was immediate. I dont know if other ratios work or gummies, have not tried them. 1 to 1 ratio does and does not blast me.

[@Adam-cl9xr]

After dealing with this for 50 years, I am really tired of it!

[@incognito595]

I believe it could be entirely due to Dehydration.

[@daledolinger]

My wife WAS dealing with RLS for at least 15 years she was very severe. She was taking 4mg Ropinrole nightly to be able to sleep. If she didn’t take it properly ie. titer up she would become nauseous and still regularly would not get a good nights rest. She is 99% cured and not on ANY medications now. She tried the iron, magnesium. RLS is/can be hereditary as in her case, grandma and other family members suffered as well. The actual cause was nerve compression in the legs. Nerves and veins pass through 3 tunnels in the lower leg down to the foot. These tunnels narrow compressing the nerves and veins causing the creepy crawling, tingling, jumping among other sensations. There is a surgical procedure to open up those tunnels similar to carpal tunnel surgery. This is a procedure that is around 12 years old and it was covered by our health insurance. There are only a couple of doctors that perform it right now. My wife and I traveled from Michigan to Colorado after researching the procedure and reading the studies. There was nearly immediate relief for my wife. Here is a study that may be helpful pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28729849/. We are completely thrilled with the life changing outcome. You can also lookup Dr. James Anderson restless leg syndrome on KZbin. He has some informational videos and other testimonials. He is the one that performed the procedure for my wife. She had her procedure done June 2024.

[@dianeallen5020]

Try magnesium glicynate its worked for me amazinly just take one a day. I tried other magnesiums but this is the one that worked hope it helps you too

[@fifirio7680]

@@dianeallen5020 I take that now in liquid form from a health food store for a heart healthy supplement... but it never did help me...

[@ButtercupCreationz]

@@dianeallen5020Do you have a link for that. If not can you show a photo of what the package looks like so I can get the correct one, please?

[@mam8982]

I’m reading these answers for my friend who has RLS bad. She is constantly exhausted from lack of sleep. Thanks to everyone for the helpful answers. I pray you get relief from this tormenting condition.

[@katsmama813]

I had insomnia for several years. It got to the point where i was getting less and less sleep and was getting cranky. My husband noticed that my legs moved a lot at night. I took him with me to my primary care doctor and asked him if there was anything I could do to help me sleep. He started me on a low dose of Carbidopa/levodopa and that's when things turned around for me. I go to bed about 9:45 and get up between 6 or 6:30 every morning. I am so thankful that I can get a regular night's sleep. I also notice walking for exercise and stretches helps with symptoms.

[@ButtercupCreationz]

I’ve never heard of this but I have a severe case of rls. I’m desperately looking for something that helps.

[@garylanders6512]

What used to help with RLS was a weighted blanket across my legs. The extra weight stopped the urge to move my legs. Now my Doberman Pinscher sleeps laying across my legs, so I no longer need the weighted blanket. Same effect. Seriously, I have been a plant based eater for the past 5 years and, now that you mentioned it, I no longer seem to have RLS.

[@antcarl1894]

a decades long sufferer of RLS, as was my mother. tried tonic water with quinine which helped for awhile, soap in a sock in bed actually helped for awhile. my most longstanding help is rubbing my toes and restless spot with Vics Vapo Rub! I'd love for it to go away forever.

[@stevedoherty1257]

I had RLS for many years. My wife and I could not share a bed because I kicked all night long. My doctor put me on Requip for it years ago. Unfortunately, that caused me to vomit in my sleep and I almost choked to death one night. I stopped taking it and had lived with RLS for years. After over 30 years of being on antidepressants, I finally weaned myself off and, lo and behold, my restless legs stopped almost immediately. Weigh, for yourself, what is important to you and fully investigate all the possible side effects of any treatments you may be considering.

[@anitahatchhatch3049]

I have wondered if my duloxetine contributes to RLS.

[@catherinewilson1079]

I’ve been on an SSRI for about 20 years. Neurologist tried to prescribe dopamine to me but I said no thanks. A pharmacist friend told me to decrease my SSRI to help it and that has worked. So SSRI’s are causing this and no one is talking about it, INCLUDING the neurologist!

[@ck-ig4nk]

Some antidepressants can cause RLS.

[@mountiescorner]

@@anitahatchhatch3049same here

[@juliejanssen7637]

Some of the older antidepressants definitely have a link with RLS. I had a hard time with Seroquel, ironically given for it's drowsy side effects!

[@viviandibrell849]

Love to hear you went plant based! I started on my Whole Foods plant-based lifestyle in January and it’s been really exciting and fun and I love eating this way and living this way. I think it has helped alleviate my trapezius muscle spasms from neck arthritis and also has relieved my restless legs!

[@jakekidsnaz]

I’m 60 and have dealt with it for over 25 years. Menopause really increased it. I was under anesthesia and my legs were still active. I am currently on Ropinirole and Gabapentin and sleep with 12 pound weighted blanket over my legs. All of this does help but I still suffer. I do know that sugar and spicy foods for some reason increases it. Thank you for the video. My legs usually kick in about 2:30 in the afternoon.

[@thegalhorowitz]

sounds like iron ( The normal levels should be a lot higher than most countries deem normal)

[@farab4391]

Used to have RLS for years, eventually trying Red Vine Leaf extract tablets. By the 3rd week it was completely gone. Still taking the tablets and no reoccurrence in years 👍

[@lugoraiza]

Potassium and Magnesium have help me a lot.

[@xpress021hundred]

Yes; I feel like the best remedy for me so far is the Potassium & Magnesium route. Pretty much an electrolyte sports drink mix, on top of Gatorade. Maybe there’s something(s) else in the drink, besides the Potassium & Magnesium doing the trick; I ju$t don’t know exactly.

[@lrajic8281]

I take 500 mg magnesia oxide every night. But those days I am physically active and sweat a lot, I get restless legs. Need to drink lots of water, and one benedryl. Just one benedryl. But add 1 more mag pill every 1 hour, up to 4 total. This means 2,000 mc mag. Eventually you fall asleep. Before that, it is a torture.😊

[@ck-ig4nk]

@@lrajic8281Stay off the Benadryl and anything else that contains the same ingredient. Check the label for the medication name. Most antihistamines, decongestants and antidepressants can possibly be contributing to your RLS. Talk to your doctor about this. If you need to, consult with a neurologist. My neurologist’s recommended treatment has literally saved my life from the torture of chronic, severe restless leg syndrome.

[@catherinewilson1079]

@@lrajic8281 Benedryl is NOT a good choice. It is an anticholinergic and can affect your brain. (Think senility)

[@ooohlaa13]

@@xpress021hundred what is the specific product you are referring to?

[@cathyjohns6595]

I had a sleep study done. During the interview the doctor asked me if I had RLS. I said yes, in fact for many years. He asked me if I took a antihistamine daily. I said yes, just about every night. I was taking Zyrtec every day for allergies, etc., for years. He said that may be the cause. So I stopped taking it and within a few days I had no more RLS! It’s been several years now and maybe once or twice a month I will have a mild episode of RLS that I can ignore and fall asleep. I swear this is a true experience. Also, using CPAP nightly has eliminated my allergies by flushing my sinuses every night. I haven’t had a sinus infection for about 5 yrs now since starting CPAP. I used to get one every spring and fall even with using Zyrtec year round.

[@ck-ig4nk]

Claritin antihistamine does not contribute to RLS.

[@alb2654]

@@ck-ig4nkI have read about a possible connection between RLS and certain antihistamines as well.

[@johnsarginson126]

About 3 years ago I had a knee replacement and had this problem for about 3 weeks after the surgery, It was the same leg as the surgery was performed on t3's with codine helped with mine and have never had it again thank god.

[@theslumkitty]

At 74 I’m on 1mg ropinirole at night. I take iron supplements daily as well as gabapentin. I suffer from trigeminal neuralgia which I’m on a bupropion patch, duloxotin and had a micro decompression surgery years ago. I experienced the augmentation from earlier meds and have tried several types of them over the years. Thanks for sharing your knowledge about so many conditions. You are both good looking, smart and entertaining.

[@robynmartinez3846]

I had what I thought was RLS. I had total knee replacement on both knees and I experienced spasms in both legs due to my nerves waking back up (at least that's what I thought). I was told to take Magnesium to counter the spasms and it did work up to a point, but the Magnesium affected my digestion. Not pretty. I still get the spasms, but not as often. The right knee is still healing. I had the surgery in Jan 2024. Thank you for your videos.

[@Nautinthislifetime]

Wide awake with it right now. Had it for 4 weeks solid now. Lost 4 nights of sleep in the past week. Am taking iron, magnesium, warm baths, cold compresses on my legs, relaxing teas to try and get sleepy....but no matter how sleepy I am, I cannot get to sleep. Nothing works. I am at my wits end.

[@ALPHABAyadmit]

Been a week with RLS and I’m tried of it. It’s 2am and I just want to sleep

[@LagrangePoint901]

I used to have RLS where I used to lie in bed and I just couldn't keep my legs still. The warmer the bed the more severe the restlessness. What helped was when I moved my leg to a cooler spot in the sheets. Of course that would only last until that part of the bed warmed up and I had to move the leg again trying to find a cool spot, ....repeat, repeat, etc.

[@janiesoito4494]

My legs are always looking for the cool spot in bed.

[@aldomontiel3419]

That’s me right now bro have you found a way to cure it let me know please brk

[@LagrangePoint901]

@@aldomontiel3419 I wish I could help but I don't remember how I got over it. I think it got to the point where I was just more tired by the time I hit the bed and konked off before it became an issue. I still occasionally can't fall asleep and I just can't get comfortable so I end getting up and reading or watching tv until I'm so tired I just fall right off. Try taking a hot bath instead of a shower before bed. It seems to relax the muscles and that may help. Sorry. Hope you find a solution.

[@stephanieweinberg9633]

Same!!!

[@susettrankin2359]

My RLS started right after I had a hip replaced. The doctor prescribed Ropinirole, and has been a blessing. Makes me a bit sleepy, but I'm going to bed soon after taking, so works out just fine. Love your channel, the info, and especially that humor !

[@hulahickey6959]

Ropinirole name brand Requip worked for me as well

[@lorenturner4838]

Ropinirole did not help me. Magnesium and potassium helped immensely. I rarely have RLS now

[@ranrachvl]

Be careful with augmentation.

[@johnc7144]

Have had RLS for many years. Two things that help for me is a hot drink before bed and about 250 MG Tylenol at bedtime. Works every time. If I forget it comes back. Good discussion.

[@raunaktailor8749]

you are taking a pain killer everyday

[@valerielaw7158]

I've had 2 sleep studies, because of my restless legs and after trying many different things Lyrica is what is working for me, I started on a higher dose and worked my way down to 3 a day morning,noon and night ,I only get it maybe 2 or 3 time every 3 month ..hope this helps someone .

[@TrophyGuide101]

My doctor refuses to prescribe me Lyrica despite it being the only medication I've never tried for my extreme RLS. Can't even switch doctors because there is a freeze on switching doctors at the minute in my country. BS.

[@SarahWilsonMySmartPuppy]

Infant iron drops work for me. Iron pills upset my stomach but the liquid, at a low dose, calms my RLS within 15-20 minutes most of the time. Big win for me. 64 yo white female.

[@catherinewilson1079]

Great idea!

[@ivitester7335]

Can you please share what brand of Infant iron drops did you use and how many drops do you take, when you get RLS? Thanks so much.

[@BelindaDavis-st7ds]

Doctors don't get it!!

[@momrobare]

I have had RLS since before I started kindergarten 62 years ago. My doctor put me on Mysoline (a seizure medication). It worked good but it made me very groggy and "out of it". After a gastric bypass, I didn't have any symptoms for 3 years! When it came back I discovered that the Tramadol I was taking for my arthritic knee pain worked GREAT on preventing RLS. I was put on Tramadol back in 1995 and have been on it ever since. I have kept the same dosage over those years and when the legs or arthritis eases off, I cut back on it with NO adverse affects! I have no withdrawal symptoms or intense worry over not having them. I just hope and pray I never have to be without them when I really need them. What makes my legs worse: heat and aerobic exercise except for swimming which I believe is because the water is cold!

[@stephengibbs4372]

Funny you should say that, I had 2 minor brain bleeds 16 years ago that gave me sleep apnea and restless leg syndrome which I think was my brains way of waking me up to breath then surprise surprise I had a grand mal fit and then petite mals quite commonly , I’ve been on 800 mgs of Epilim since and most issues are gone.

[@kellyb9287]

Interesting.. a heating pad helps my RLS.

[@phiaredman122]

Tramadol don't help for me. I use tramadol for fibromialgia and osteoarthritus. 😢

[@CinderellaRaptured333]

I used to have Tramadol for an old injury , but I ran out. Finding a freaking doctor that will be willing to Rx another bottle for me has been hell. 😢. He says, ‘I don’t freely hand out prescription pain pills’. Especially when scans and X-rays don’t have an official proof. Like my rls.

[@CookingCanningAndBaking]

Great content, as usual. Thanks docs. I have RLS/WES, diagnosed by my sleep doctor during a routine office visit about 15 years ago. He noticed how I was bouncing my leg up and down - as I always do - and he started diving in with questions. That visit led to a sleep study, several medications that I was allergic to and finally landing on a few medications I take nightly to this day. I've had insomnia for decades and the RLS doesn't help, but with the meds, I often sleep through the night with only the occasional night where I lay there wide awake all night. So, for anyone suffering with either insomnia or RLS, I encourage you to seek help from a sleep specialist and persevere through to find a solution. It took a couple of years for me going through the allergic reactions that ranged from hives/itching to anaphylactic shock. I wound up in a good place and you will too, just find someone you can trust and stick with it. You'll find relief. Thanks Dr. Zalzal and Dr. Weening. I love the humor and information. Take care of yourselves.

[@heynedajoon]

You describe me please tell me what medication you are taking?

[@CookingCanningAndBaking]

@heynedajoon mine is a combination of Gabapentin, Trazadone, and Topirimate. Your sleep specialist will advise you on what dosage to start with and how to take it. The Gabapentin calms my legs so I can get to sleep, and the Trazadone keeps me asleep. I don't know where the Topirimate fits in, but it has the added benefit of reducing/almost eliminating my migraines, so I love that! Best of luck to you.

[@glendacox3254]

Great content as usual. Thank you both! I have had restless legs on and off for most of my life until ten years ago. When I retired from a job, where I stood 12 hours a day, my restless legs became severe. I was lucky if I could sleep for 20 minutes at a time. It would often flare up in the afternoon if I had to sit for a while. Travelling became impossible. Magnesium helped a bit and my iron was good. I finally gave into medication and took pramipexole. It was an eight hour sleep for the first time in a very long time! I am still on it all these years later, and have not had to increase my dose very much over that time thankfully. I set an alarm to make sure I take it three hours before bed. I am a very high energy person still at 66 and sleep about 5 or 6 hours a night. Going low carb definitely does make a difference in decreasing the severity of RLS, but this medication has saved my life! 🎉

[@truthseeker1649]

​@@glendacox3254 I am taking my second tablet tonight after trying Ropinirole, they didn't work. I have found myself very sleepy today after taking my first Pramixeprole last night. Although I already felt a difference in my legs last night and this morning. I've only recently been diagnosed and doing some research of my own about it. I hope you are still experiencing the improvement and sleeping better. Healing hugs!✨️🙏❤️‍🩹

[@dianeorr6208]

I have struggled with it a lot. Remedies I find helpful is cutting out sugar and getting enough magnesium daily

[@joyceboon1999]

I have had the same problem after my knee replacement. I am taking gabapentin and that helps.

[@dmouse522]

Iron supplement and not letting your legs get cold in the evening. Keep a throw blanket or a cat close at hand.

[@gc6854]

Pramipexole works for Restless Leg but my stomach didn’t like it. Solution I found was Gabapentin no side effects. Good luck everyone.

[@binab2863]

Don't want to have to depend on a medication. Not gonna rely on big pharma.😊

[@gc6854]

@@binab2863 Enjoy your RLS.

[@gc6854]

@@binab2863 Enjoy not sleeping. 😊

[@christyherkel4215]

@@binab2863 well if some of us don’t take the meds there is absolutely NO rest or sleep .

[@jerrysfamilystuff2207]

My mother, both sisters, and myself have had RLS most of our lives. My father did not, so it seems genetic to my mother's side. My mother and my siblings had a greater degree of uncomfort than me. However, in my 20s-40s, it affected me quite extensively- especially at night. The only relief factor I found that helped me was a hot shower. Many times, this would provide the relief that allowed me to sleep. It is a mysterious disorder that can affect the life-style to a great degree.

[@thegalhorowitz]

no its because you are women and your ferritin levels are lower when you hit puberty. Since there arent medical studies seperating women and men its usually dismissed as “normal levels” Should be above 100, some doctors aim 300 with iv injections for rls sufferers

[@fitnesswithoutthegym8968]

My RLS is genetic as my father had it too. I use magnesium and wear compression socks to be. I was prescribed lyrica for it and it seemed like a miracle as for three months RLS was under control. Unfortunately it ended up causing a heart problem. Exercise absolutely works, but can aggravate it if done too much or at the wrong time. End result for me is 60mg of codeine nightly. It helps when. John Hopkins did a small study that showed people with RLS have higher glutamate levels and do not require as much sleep as most people do RLS for me gets way worse when I’m on a plane leading me to think there’s some venous insufficiency involved to. Best thing about RLS (and KZbin) is I was able to learn to play the guitar when I could not sleep late at night

[@28105wsking]

I have it, caused by a medication I took for menopause years ago, and also a serious fall five years ago worsened it. Worse at night, I take for it. Restless Legs syndrome really affects my sleep badly. I combine ropinerole with Tylenol PM for a good nights sleep if I’m still awake at 1 AM. I do take care of nutrition with supplements and also use Magnesium lotion on my feet for it and leg cramps.

[@TalkingWithDocs]

Thanks for sharing

[@janisewellington3971]

Be careful with Tylenol pm, it’s now connected with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Two of my best friends took them for sleep for years and both died from Alzheimer or dementia.

[@KingsCountyVideos]

Ive had RLS since I was a kid. It happened more when I was overly tired. Now being older certain things trigger it.Sugar is number one. If I eat sugar too late in the night I'm in for a long night. If I exercise too late in the night that causes it also.I now take magnesium which sees to help. Ive actually figured out a way to use my mind to stop it and it works.

[@thiscrazyfuramily138]

This sounds just like me. Always worse when overtired and sugar definitely makes a difference! I use RLS frequency or a hypnosis 8 hr sleep session via you tube to help with the mind part.

[@LambTampa]

My legs get super restless in the evenings before bedtime. Helpful for me: Regular exercise daily, stretching before bed. I also have chronic venous insufficiency made worse by multiple joint replacements. My vascular doc prescribed a device that I wear for an hour in the evenings that pumps my lymph fluids back up into my body. If I am good about all these things I sleep pretty well!

[@pjderringermatteo8771]

I have had RLS for a long time, age 71, and find walking helps sometimes. Other times when very tired from gardening I just know I am in for a bad night. You should talk to anesthesiologists, they tell me my RLS was so bad during a colonoscopy they had to increase my anesthesia! RLS, I have decided, is better than other illnesses.

[@maggie7843]

I’m so grateful a neurologist ended my 2 years of misery not sleeping well because of my itchy legs. Iron serum was fine but my FERRITIN was at 14. Took multiple (3) iron pills a day - under dr’s care - only raised it to 19. Got iron infusions and finally could sleep again!

[@darlaostrum1483]

I have had “restless leg syndrome” for several years. Don’t know the root cause (I have vessel and nerve damage from MVA and DVTs) but vinegar gummies and magnesium supplements have helped reduce frequency but not eliminated. Getting out of bed and walking around usually helps but it’s a pain in the neck!! Have not been tested for iron so, I’ll explore that. Thanks for addressing the topic.

[@jsstar76]

Hi Docs… I was on Quinine years ago when I had RLS and it completely ‘cured’ it however due to the side effects of quinine I had to stop it but fortunately RLS has stopped.

[@jopickl]

I quit eating all sugar and that cured it. I can't eat anything that contains added sugar. Just read all the labels. It works for me!

[@paperback10]

It's amazing how many ailments are caused by elevated blood glucose. I know from personal experience!

[@auptag4846]

I have RLS. It first started during my pregnancy. It only manifested when I was lying down. It subsided after the birth of my child. It reappeared several years later. When I started taking vit. With iron it subsided. During my annual checkup, my Doc did a full blood work up and found my iron was way too high. After I stopped taking iron the RLS started again. I found Hylands over the counter restful leg tablets that at the time contained quinine. I had great results with this until quinine was banned from over the counter treatments. Over the years I’ve tried several over the counter supplements ie. Spray on magnesium, and the new Hylands restful legs sublingual tabs. These have helped.

[@mtnjhutch]

Drink tonic water, it has quinine in it. Lemon or lime juice helps the taste

[@NicoleRose2710]

I have it and have been suffering with it for 3yrs. I find it very frustrating, irritating and annoying!! I want it to stop!!!

[@kathylibby3676]

If my legs get hot during sleep, RLS will result. Often it will go away if I place cool wet towels on my thighs. I have talked to people who respond the complete opposite: cold will instigate RLS, and heat will relieve it. Placing a massage around the knees to instigate a reflex response can stop RLS too.

[@dbrianhoyt]

Magnesium has helped me.

[@susanaustman543]

I usually take my mg in morning. I’m going to start taking it after dinner.

[@evelynr.4151]

Yes, I had it for many years. Magnesium is what worked for me. However after watching this video and hearing that low iron could cause this, I had low iron most of my child bearing years. I had no idea that could have been a cause. Anyway, after menopause, all is well. No more restless leg syndrome and no more low iron. I still take the magnesium because it relaxes me at night and thus a more restful sleep.

[@johnhuntley3006]

I use a 12 inch X 24 inch heating pad underneath my legs at bed time. Medium heat and one that turns off after two hours. Sunbeam brand. Works great for settling it down.

[@TalkingWithDocs]

Careful not to burn! Thanks for sharing

[@donnahamacher2054]

I have Sciatica with it. It's horrible.

[@juliejanssen7637]

I'm so sorry! I feel your pain! I had back surgery that greatly improved my sciatica, but I still have neuropathy with the RLS. It's crazy sometimes. I have had success with Requip for the RLS and Lyrica for the neuropathy. Of course now they're threatening to take away that because some people are abusing it!

[@craigr2152]

I had restless legs really bad. I tried most of the recommended things, but none worked. Then, I tried Vitamin B1 (thiamine) and that worked. I was so happy that something finally helped. Good luck to anyone in this spot!

[@dottieroberts6010]

How long did it take?

[@craigr2152]

It worked right away. However, even though I consistently took it daily, it lost its effectiveness after awhile. So, I am still searching for the answer to my horrible restless leg issue.

[@suechang7443]

Perfect timing! Been dealing with this for a few weeks now.

[@terrifayle6685]

My RLS used to wake me up in the night. 50-60 squats made me able to go back to sleep. When I became a remote employee in 2020, I started walking every day at lunch, 3 miles. I rarely have RLS symptoms any longer. Now if I could just deal with my leg cramps. ;)

[@christyherkel4215]

You’re lucky

[@annann6627]

I was treated with medications for dps and on both meds the symptoms increased tremendously.

[@TalkingWithDocs]

Oh no

[@gigismalley]

I developed restless leg last year at 66 years old. It's horrible. I do 10 minutes of walking in place and stretching before bed, and it seems to help. I go to the gym daily, so it isn't from not moving. I'm not willing to go on drugs, but I will have my iron checked and go from there.

[@jeaninew7830]

Routine exercise has helped me. I haven't had a bout of RLS in years since exercising regularly

[@fixinanddoinstuff2134]

Compression stockings in the evening and take them off before bed. Helps alot for me

[@DavidPeterson-s1b]

I have restless legs along with chronic sciatica. I sit on heating pads, take something for pain and a muscle relaxer, and or 3 Advill. And hope for the best

[@jakec5618]

Can you guys do a video on sleep bruxism ? Thanks

[@danielwren-ud1hl]

It is debilitating for me. I’ve been on dopamine agonists which have made things so much worse with augmentation. At this point I’m beginning to consider narcotic treatment. I vowed I would never take narcotics on a regular basis but now I’m reconsidering my position.

[@ck-ig4nk]

As a last resort I finally agreed to take methadone. My neurologist had encouraged me to take it since nothing else was working anymore. It worked immediately and I’ve had no symptoms in the 8 years since then.

[@davederoux3361]

​@@ck-ig4nkthat's great..any side effects from the methadone? And what's your dosage? Thanks.

[@davederoux3361]

​@@ck-ig4nkthat's great! Can I ask what your dosage is and if you have any side effects?

[@sharonvandermeulen6346]

Very annoying symptoms! Ive had success with taking Magnesium Glycinate before bed.

[@LeGenDNumBeR7]

Can you suggest dosage ? 400 mg ?

[@monicaperez2843]

​@@LeGenDNumBeR7 They are not allowed to do that.

[@ooohlaa13]

I take Ocean Pure Magnesium Glycinate 3 capsules = 250 mg with 8mg Zinc Bizglycinate (Zinc is also considered implicated) This brand supposedly more bioavailable ... before this I took the powder form and I think this brand is better absorbed. More expensive but I like that it includes the zinc. I am pretty convinced this is a nutritional problem.

[@patnoble1914]

I have taken NyQuil for cold symptoms for years with no problems. Suddenly I noticed each time I took NyQuil I would get RLS. I don't take it anymore and have never had the restless legs again.

[@trits4227]

Hi Docs, My wife and self think you two are great, it,s so good to find out about conditions that effect so many people , but never get spoken about, could you please do one about Bowel Sydrom and it,s link to Bowel Cancer. Keep up the brilliant work. Regards Mike

[@janh8847]

My husband has had it for years. Mostly at night in bed. He’ll be laying still then all of a sudden he’ll jump and shake his leg and he’ll try to grab it and pinch it to stop it. That could happen several times in the night waking us both up. It doesn’t happen every night but when it does it’s awful and he has a terrible nights sleep. He’ll get up and go in another room. I feel so bad for him.

[@elizabethsmith3416]

Oh yes I have dealt with this as long as I can remember. Just when your about to doze off your legs want to dance lol. So frustrating ❤

[@madamecampsalot6384]

I've been working 3rd shift for over 40 years. Not sure if there's a connection. I was getting RLS so bad that it was almost painful and brought me to tears. My Dr put me on Ropinerole. He had to increase the dose incrementally until I got relief at 4 mg. Now I'm taking 2 mgs and Gabapentin.

[@jamessimpson3669]

From a sufferer all my life, 62 yrs old, it gets worse with age, DONT take dopamine drugs, DONT!! You will get augmentation at one point and increasing dosage further I’ll only work for a while and then get worse again, trust me there’s nothing going to cure this, the safest drug to take is Gabapentin, 600mg before bed, it’ll knock the edge off it, I’ve tried everything, magnesium does nothing but help a tiny fraction, one study I found online carried out by Helsinki uni 2018 found over sensitive nerve fibres, ur who knows what causes it

[@ccaudi]

Runner/cyclist/climber for decades until age quieted my activity and work became much more seriously stressful and time-consuming. That's when RLS came as if I was a running 100 meters when hitting the sack. Now that I retired from most things in my 70s, it also has. Yet on occasion, the urge does flare. I seem to recognize the onset and am able to calm the savage beast before my legs react. How much can behavioral training benefit we sufferers?

[@shawnwood9875]

I’ve had it for year 26 years. To the point my body thinks it’s riding a bicycle. It’s some of the worst pain at night that I’ve experienced. Sometimes I have to lay in the bath just to get my legs to calm down and there is no guarantee it takes care of it.

[@michellehansen8417]

I wish the doctors would have talked about some of the things that can make RLS worse. Things like certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants, etc), alcohol (huge trigger), eating foods from the nightshade family (tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, etc). I've had it for years and it's only partially under control with meds.

[@ooohlaa13]

thank you, me too, esp the antihistamines I get riled up from them. I love nightshades that is so hard to eliminate being a vegan. I used to eat late night like 10:30 and no longer do and that has helped a little bit. No alcohol for me, can't control. Also need to avoid caffeine.

[@jenniebaker7180]

I finally found something that helps me a lot: ace bandages! I get RLS only in my left leg. When I feel it coming on I wrap my thigh with one bandage, not too tight, but snug, and then wrap my lower leg in the other bandage. There is something very soothing about the pressure

[@davidw.r.7801]

I'm a 64 yr old male, and this just started affecting me in Feb. of this year. Very annoying and it only starts after I go to bed. I find it helped doing leg exercises before bed and I do leg extensions with weights when it does happen to help get back to sleep. Lately, I have been wearing compression bands around my calves which seems to help also. I have been taking proper supplements for years so that doesn't seem to be a factor.

[@susanaustman543]

I have terrible insomnia and suffer from restless leg syndrome. However I have very high iron levels, diagnosed with hemochromatosis. I often have to get up at night and literally walk laps around house to settle the legs down. The absolute worst for me is in an airplane for more than 3 hrs. I just about go out of my mind. Thinking of seeing GP for meds for when I’m travelling. It’s really awful suffering from this. Just had TKR six weeks ago so that makes it even more fun! Not.

[@barbarabarry4378]

Appreciate you guys, good balanced information along with a comedy routine - keep doing what you do, please and thank you.

[@patwo9719]

I definitely have it. I find hard bicycling helps relieve it short term but I have had and still have many sleepless nights.

[@christineschueler3616]

Have had RLS since childhood. my Grandmother had it too.Stretching my lower back, touch toe stretches and pelvic lifts help tremendously., tried, magnesium, Horizant with no luck. Iron level tested and is fine.

[@daledolinger]

My wife WAS dealing with RLS for at least 15 years she was very severe. She was taking 4mg Ropinrole nightly to be able to sleep. If she didn’t take it properly ie. titer up she would become nauseous and still regularly would not get a good nights rest. She is 99% cured and not on ANY medications now. She tried the iron, magnesium. RLS is/can be hereditary as in her case, grandma and other family members suffered as well. The actual cause was nerve compression in the legs. Nerves and veins pass through 3 tunnels in the lower leg down to the foot. These tunnels narrow compressing the nerves and veins causing the creepy crawling, tingling, jumping among other sensations. There is a surgical procedure to open up those tunnels similar to carpal tunnel surgery. This is a procedure that is around 12 years old and it was covered by our health insurance. There are only a couple of doctors that perform it right now. My wife and I traveled from Michigan to Colorado after researching the procedure and reading the studies. There was nearly immediate relief for my wife. Here is a study that may be helpful pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28729849/. We are completely thrilled with the life changing outcome. You can also lookup Dr. James Anderson restless leg syndrome on KZbin. He has some informational videos and other testimonials. He is the one that performed the procedure for my wife. She had her procedure done June 2024.

[@GoldenGirl26]

I've been dealing with it for 25 yrs. When I originally told my doc he had no clue and never heard of my problem. He told me to take vitamin E which did nothing. I even have trouble on occasion when I'm sitting in a movie theatre. That's the worst. Last couple yrs I'm taking magnesium and I've noticed it's so much better.

[@AmandaDarby89]

I get it in my arms at the same time. I’ve had it since I was a child young

[@TalkingWithDocs]

That’s uncommon. Sorry to hear this

[@robinblock8482]

I have had this all my life and I had a sleep study in my 50’s. Low ferritin levels and sleep study confirmed RLS. I believe there is a strong genetic factor as my mother and her father had it. Getting my ferritin levels up to at least a low baseline helped but I have been on pramiprexo (Mirapex) low dose since that time without side effects. I also notice it is worse if my legs are too warm in bed; so seems to be better with cold sleeping environment. I am an extremely active person but have not noticed physical activity has helped it. Only solution is watching my ferritin levels and taking Mirapex a few hours before going to bed or even a couple hrs before being on an airline flight (sitting for long periods seems to be a trigger). Thanks for talking about this debilitating condition.

[@hulahickey6959]

I also take it during airplane flights. Something about sitting there is a semi confined space makes it flare up

[@pattialbritton1460]

You two are informative and fun to watch. Keep making us smile.

[@trentnaumann8121]

I have had restless leg for sometime. This what worked for me - B12. If I take Bi2 every other day, no more restless leg. It works for me.

[@cathyphegley7848]

So here’s an update….my doctor added a muscle relaxant that I take about an hour before bed and it’s working wonders. I have to sometimes fall asleep with my knees bent but truly it’s helping so much. I also cut carbs and eat a diet of healthy fats fiber and protein. No sugar and low caffeine. Bless you all in your struggle 💞

[@kat2878]

i have asked before - but i would love Dr. W to do a what i eat in a day video - i have tried to go plant based several times and i just felt tired and hungry all the time - maybe i am doing something wrong - would love to see how you guys do it - you seem to have good energy - thanks for the information and humor - :)

[@LynnSuthers]

Thank you- very informative

[@cindytomlinson2326]

Can you guys turn up your microphones a bit. Very difficult to hear some of your descriptions/explanations. Thanks, really enjoy learning from you two.

[@lulamamie8524]

No sound problems here.

[@carrievanderhoff]

There is also option of CC:Closed Captions

[@AH-cy4md]

I got rls due to psychiatric meds, and it’s persisted long after discontinuing the psych meds. I’ve found supplemental iron to definitely help; if I discontinue the iron supplement the rls returns after a few weeks; magnesium citrate supplements help prevent constipation from the iron supplements (iron bisglycinate) My doctor knows I take 18mg/day iron supplements; my iron levels have occasionally tested just slightly below normal, maybe my body just isn’t very efficient at absorption of my dietary plant based iron

[@GreggBB]

Really interesting information. thanks for covering this one.

[@TrombaSolo]

Hello doctors. I enjoy your videos. I am 75, M, I have restless legs and take pramipexole for it. It seems to help. I've been taking it for about 10 years. The last year or 2, I've been feeling it's not as effective as it used to be. I may have to increase the dosage. I'll check my latest blood work results to see if I also might be deficient in iron and/or magnesium. I've heard that RLS can be hereditary - not surprising. My mom had it, worse than me, from the way she described it. Here's a funny quote from my dad. Feel free to add it to your video. One morning when they woke up, my Dad apparently said to my mom, "I hope your team won last night." Cheers.

[@priscillaalford9711]

That's so funny

[@dt1351]

Is it a bad thing? I suffered severe leg cramping - both lower & upper leg for no apparent reason for years & years. The pain was terrible. I got diagnosed with MRSA before a surgery, got treated with Bactrim. The result: the incessant leg cramping ceased. A miracle! Since then I seem to have developed restless leg syndrome. The crawling sensations are not great but I don't mind the restless legs at all. I look on it as much needed exercise. My legs jig away but I can stop them at any time, they'll start again but I find the sensations fine - a vast improvement on the excruciating muscle cramping I suffered for so many years. Give me restless leg syndrome any time!

[@TalkingWithDocs]

Sounds like a reasonable approach

[@Unitedstatesian]

We are studying the use of Nicotine Patches for LongCovid and MECFS. And one of the 200 symptoms is wrestlessleg syndrome. Nicotine patches along with electrolytes is a great combination... Personally I also suggest journallying and proactive shaking to release the pent up energy during the day. This is inspired by the work of Dr Peter Levine.

[@ooohlaa13]

this is ver interesting because I do feel like adrenalin overload ... will look into this more. Also looking into electric muscle stimulation with at home devices. I always have 3 vibrators charged up and use them during the night when my body feels tense or achey. This helps me fall back to sleep.

[@dungteller367]

Thank you! I have RLS it has been about 6 years from when I was first diagnosed., My legs would jump about 6 inches off the mattress. I could not sleep. I was prescribed Pramipexole and that really helped, I had to increase my dosage. I have found magnesium to help allowing me to take less of the Pramipexole. I think being active in the day helps prevent RLS. Thanks for the video.

[@brendasears9650]

Potassium supplement helped me. Personally think any electrolyte deficiency has potential to cause this.

[@joanwood9480]

I drink tonic water it has some quinine in it. Doesn't take the away but does calm it some. Works well enough for me

[@Homer19521]

I have REL (Restless Ear Lobe). Good vid! 👍

[@SJC49]

You guys are fun and informative!

[@JudithMaffris]

Inc magnesium and a CPA for sleep apnea has improved my RLS so much. It has been almost a year since I woke up moving or having the sensation to move my legs. What a plus.

[@tammyrickert3130]

I Certainly Appreciate you 2 Sharing Your Wisdom. I just Love the witt and intelligence and sence of humor. ❤

[@TalkingWithDocs]

You are so welcome. Some people don’t like the jokes. We do our best to keep it useful but entertaining.

[@tammyrickert3130]

Keep up the Good Work!!!❤

[@spiffydigs]

I had restless leg syndrome in the 90's, before they had tv commercials for it, when I was in a very high stress environment. I ran away and it stopped. I'm in my 40's now and going through a tremendous amount of stress since the pandemic. It's decades later now, and it actually started to come back a little. A few low intensity episodes, and one a little more intense. No doubt in my mind that this is linked to stress. I'll say 3 episodes in the past 6 months. I was able to lessen the stress a little so seems to be gone.

[@brendawalker2031]

I am prescribed Ropineral! I hate restless legs syndrome! It can drive you nuts!

[@TheJwjenks]

Great info as always!! I have RLS and would love to go on a plant-based diet. But I also have Crohn’s disease and do not process fruits or vegetables. Makes it very hard to follow a plant-based diet and get the nutrients I need. Thank you once again for talking about a very timely subject.

[@ingridhoadley6857]

Carnivore diet

[@marksuplinskas3474]

I'm on an antidepressant that gives me bad restlessness leg syndrome (my legs WRITHE) But thankfully, a 1mg dose of Clonazepam works well for me at bedtime.

[@mssmiley5691]

Yes, I experience a writhing feeling in my lower legs and ankles. It’s as if I need to twist them. It only happens in the evening before bed or in bed. Luckily it is not as frequent anymore.

[@gc6854]

Benzo??

[@Sputnik2020]

Me too. I’ve been as high as 1.25mg now I’m on 0.5mg for past 20 years. I try to get off and I start to jump out of bed. I have extreme sudden movements like a car accident. My neck is a mess.

[@tinamcclure7984]

I take requip for this. It's awful

[@Momcamp02]

Be aware that years on clonazepam can leave you dependent on it! I was on it for 20 years for RLS. Getting off has been a nightmare! I had no idea what “withdrawal” could be like! See your doctor and wean off slowly. Expect symptoms. RLS is awful!

[@jenniferalbrecht5101]

Hyland’s Restful Legs PM really helps me. I also get leg cramps sometimes, and slathering on Theraworx magnesium foam helps both.

[@gc6854]

Hylands is quackery.

[@jenniferalbrecht5101]

@@gc6854 says you

[@wdbressl]

It’s at it worse when I am confined like when traveling in a plane. I haven’t found anything that helps. If I’m in a car, if I drive it goes away but as a passenger nothing helps.

[@jakekidsnaz]

Yes that’s the worst.

[@anntimmons8940]

Same for me, and if I am particularly tired and stay up too late

[@maib6307]

Yes I have the plane thing too. I tend to fall asleep in the passenger seat of cars so it’s never hit me there, LOL

[@hulahickey6959]

May I suggest Requip (Ropinirole) it helped me tremendously on long flights

[@elizabethturel78]

Drove me crazy for months. Told my primary, she said to take warm baths; I hate baths. Decided to use cbd salve. There’s no THC. It even works on getting rid of bruises and it sure worked on my periodic RLS. Don’t believe me? Just try it.

[@dottiecunningham2152]

I have had restless leg syndrome for as long as I can remember. I'm 83. Currently the only thing that seems to help is Pramipexole 1mg QID. I worry that augmentation will occur. Before this dosage level it occurred any time of day or night. Two other family members have it. Is it familial or genetic? One granddaughter has CRPS. Are they related in any way? Love your instructional videos.

[@BridgetV-uv3cp]

Thanks for reply, have an appointment in August with my 4 th Neurologist!