Why Do I Feel Like My Legs Can’t Get Rest?

Do you feel like 1. the urge to move your legs begins or worsens during periods of rest or inactivity, 2. is partially or totally relieved by movement, and 3. is worse in the evening or at night than during the day or occurs only in the evening or at night?

Do the symptoms occur at least 3 times per week and have they persisted for at least 3 months?

Are the symptoms accompanied by distress or impairment in social, occupational, educational, academic, behavioral, or other important areas of functioning?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have a disorder related to restless legs. However, you may be displaying a sign related to it. Restless legs can be caused by several factors, including an iron deficiency, diabetes, a kidney disease, depression, and fibromyalgia. If you feel the desire to move the legs or arms, usually associated with uncomfortable sensations (e.g., creeping, crawling, tingling, burning, or itching) it may be important to discuss the symptoms with your doctor. Restless legs syndrome makes people tired during the day, and they often show functional impairment. What may help is taking a warm bath before going to bed and massaging the legs when symptoms occur.

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you suffer from restless legs syndrome. However, you are displaying several signs related to it. It may be important to talk to your doctor before symptoms get worse. Restless legs can have several causes, such as low levels of iron, depression, kidney problems, and diabetes, or a medication. Your doctor will ask you several questions and based on your answers he will decide if you will be diagnosed with restless legs syndrome or not. The doctor will also do a physical examination to rule out other neurological reasons for your symptoms. To reduce symptoms you may keep a healthy diet, massage your legs and make sure to do regular exercise.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have restless legs syndrome. It may be recommended to discuss your symptoms with your doctor. Symptoms of this disorder are usually worse when you are at rest, and frequent movements of the legs occur to try to relieve the uncomfortable sensations. What may help is doing regular exercise, massaging your legs in the evening, having a hot bath before going to sleep, and practicing yoga. Your doctor will decide if medication is needed. Make sure you have a healthy diet and avoid alcohol. Also, you may check if your pillow and mattress need to be substituted and if your bedroom has a comfortable temperature.