Hello all. I’ve suffered with RLS for about 20 years and always managed it well with the usual stretching, massage, etc I get some nights I want to chop my legs off but generally I cope. However over the past 6-9 months it’s been horrific. Bloods are normal, my Dr won’t put me on any meds because of other conditions.
Any tips, tricks etc?
TIA
We need to know more about your medications, if any, and your other conditions-- are you on medications for any of them.?
Thank you.
As Madlegs says, you need to tell us all meds you are taking, including OTC meds. Also, what are your actual blood numbers? Doctors will tell you they're normal but for RLS the figures need to be much higher than "normal. serum iron need to be more than 60, serum ferritin more than 100.
Madlegs and Jools are right, it would be useful if you identify what other conditions you have.
There are two main types of "first line" medications for RLS and both are contraindicated for a few conditions, but they're not the same.
It may be that although one type is contraindicated, the other might not be.
Then there are medications for RLS that doesn't respond to the first line ones.
So there's a few options.
That zappy thingy. TENS I think it's called. Sometimes it helps for me. Not a drug it's a little electric current.
And others are right. Knowing the meds you are on is important. A lot of meds can cause else.
How do you use the Tens unit?
Dr has to prescribe,just so you know,you'll probably pick it up at a medical equipment and supply place. To use it's very easy.mine has 4 sticky pads that you connect wires to.its a tad easier for me to connect them and then stick two on each leg.this you'll have to figure out what positions work for you. Oh yes make sure unit is off before you attach anything lol. Then there should be 2 dials one for the intensity other for frequency. Those you'll want to start out slowly.listen to your body. Make sure unit is off before you remove sticky pads or move them.good luck I hope it gives you relief. PS I wouldn't go-to bed with it on.
Hello Dashington, and welcome.
Many of us have been on this path - managing fairly well fora few decades, then getting to the point where our own efforts no longer suffice. If you can, tell us why your doctor will not help - this sounds like familial RLS, and it will continue to get worse, slowly, and you will have to have medical help.
As there are several courses open to you, I cannot imagine that all are forbidden.
Also, and very important, have you had your ferritin levels checked? Your doctor cannot refuse that simple thing.
As Madlegs1 said, knowing you other conditions would be useful as some may be 'co morbid', ie often occur together.
I've found that going from sitting all day to a standing desk (or just getting more walking into my day) has almost entirely eliminated my RLS.
"sitting is the new smoking"
Petervg that’s a brilliant win-win!!
I have Graves Disease - my thyroid was removed 9 years ago. I’m now on levothyroxine 125mcg. I also suffer GAD and take propranolol and sertraline, aciclovir for cold sores and the pill (synphase) because I get ovarian cysts. I take 100mg tramadol in the evening as I’m waiting for my 3rd lot of surgery on my wrist following an accident at work.
I’m on my feet all day with work, I work in a minor injuries unit and take my pooch out twice a day for walks and play cricket once a week.
magnesium level 0.84
Ferritin 90
Haemaglobin 134
Because I’m already taking so many meds the doctor doesn’t want to put me on any more. And I’ve been told that some meds lower your impulse control.
Thank you all for replying so far. I’m glad I’m not alone.
Check this out it works...I take Ropinerole, and find I can lower dosage as I participate in exercise..yippee
10 Ways to Exercise With Restless Legs Syndrome
Definitely try CBD oil. Because my cousin is certified to get the oil with a small amount of the real stuff, I didn't realize my oil was stronger than regular oil, but for me it has ended YEARS OF MISERY. I stopped taking Ropineral, nausea medicine and sleep meds. CBD oil eliminated 4 drugs from my nighttime routine.
I use Balneum Cream -it helps me
I have got in a real mess with my RLS and I desperately need help
Seeking RLS treatment 
Seeking Advice Regarding Ferritin Levels
