The secret of Sleep: Hi all, I just... - Restless Legs Syn...

Restless Legs Syndrome

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The secret of Sleep

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Hi all, I just watched ep 2 of this 3 part series on More 4 (UK freeview ch 14). I am posting to say it appears that the final episode will include someone with RLS - they didn't name RLS but said she hoped to 'kick' her problem and she is shown kicking her legs just like I would and complaining of pain.

The final episode is on More 4 on Wed 05 Jul, 10pm

Might be worth a watching as it is sleep experts helping those suffering with disorders that effect sleep.

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Thanks raffs, i watched the first episode but wasnt interested. So, if its possible they will be showing someone who has RLS for the last episode i will try to remember to watch, just to hear what a sleep expert has to say, just better not mention soap.!! he he he.. :P

in reply to

If I manage to remember I'll post a reminder.

RedRoseAndy profile image
RedRoseAndy

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a disorder that causes a strong urge to move one's legs. There is often an unpleasant feeling in the legs that improves somewhat with moving them. Occasionally the arms may also be affected. The feelings generally happen when at rest and therefore can make it hard to sleep. Due to the disturbance in sleep, people with RLS may have daytime sleepiness, low energy, irritability, and a depressed mood. Additionally, many have limb twitching during sleep. Restless leg syndrome may resolve if the underlying problem is addressed. Otherwise treatment includes lifestyle changes and medication.

I have suffered from RLS twice in my life, and both times I cured it quickly with a simple exercise using the exercise machine. There are many exercises you can do with a Bullworker but the one that treats RLS is the one where a foot is placed in both straps on both sides, and then the legs are forced apart against the pressure of the straps that are attached to springs. The strengthening of the leg muscles will alleviate the RLS symptoms in just a few weeks with regular use, just follow the exercise sheet instructions to increase strength in the offending muscles.

I used to swim a mile or so a day lift weights and would have ran for 30_40 minutes and it did little for the RLS.

I have gotten a bit of relief from stretching but for me anyway there is no cure in exercise. Glad you have something that works for you.

There is no cure whatever you take OR do. Thats a fact. Only treatments, whether that be med, or exercise or something else you have found which works for you.

Elisse, I am sadly driven to agree with you. For sure there are those who derive benefits from lifestyle changes but it is worth bearing in mind (as you have previously pointed out) that this condition was first identified in the 16th century when diet was much more restricted and there would have been limited access to sugary foods, coffee etc.

Incidentally I have found that swimming the breast stroke can exacerbate my symptoms. I think it is something to do with the leg movements in that stroke. So obviously, how I move my body has some bearing.

However what is more clear than anything is that the random, unexplained onset of symptoms is easily as regular as when they come on for something predictable. I could drive myself demented if I was fixated on finding a pattern.

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