Hot and cold pads and RLS

[thorp]

My RLS symptoms normally start reasonably gently every night around 2115-2130

But it seems that if I use hot or cold pads to treat any other problems at this time, my RLS reaction is nearly immediate and strong, legs kicking everywhere

So three nights ago I had a bad ankle so put a cold pad on the ankle ; Immediate RLS

Last night I had a painful shoulder, so put a hot pad on my shoulder.Immediate RLS reaction

Has anybody else had anything like this?

[Madlegs1]

One thing for certain with RLS, is that everyone is different.

I like to sleep in a cool atmosphere. My partner can't sleep, even in high summer, without a hot water bottle.

I've never tried pads of any temperature for RLS, but when using them for sprains, don't get any reaction rls- wise.

Good luck.

[thorp in reply to Madlegs1]

Thanks

Like you i dont normally get any reaction at all

Only when my mad legs start after 2100 at night!

[Munroist]

One of my personal theories about RLS that it affects you more when your nerves are stimulated or excited. For me that is normally after exercise and it also links with a general increase in RLS since I had back problems following which I still have paraesthesia (i.e. odd sensations) so I know that my nerves are not 100% functioning correctly. In your case application of heat or cold could also stimulate the nerves. I do occasionally find it gets worse if my legs are too warm but that is not common.

[Madlegs1 in reply to Munroist]

And yet, some people get relief from sexual activity!???🥴🙄

[Munroist in reply to Madlegs1]

I find that relaxing eventually so it seems consistent ... The one thing that doesn't seem consistent are those people who get relief from intense massage on legs, hot and cold showers etc which you'd think would get the nerves going. Then again I don't think there's just one simple variety of RLS

[thorp in reply to Munroist]

absolutely

that is exactly why I think why these forums are so useful

we should all exchange our experiences and then we can all try everything to finally find out what fits

RLS like so many chronic illnesses has complex causes and results

And such complex issues never have simple answers

It is trial and error

[Goldy700]

I find a hot bath absolutely relieving - also walking on cold damp grass. Often the effect lasts until I fall asleep so yes we are all different.