My RLS is aggravated and symptoms are increased when using Voltaren gel for my arthritic pain. Have anyone had similar experience with the anti-inflammatory gel?
Diclofenac Sodium Gel (Voltaren Gel) - Restless Legs Syn...
Diclofenac Sodium Gel (Voltaren Gel)
Voltaren has certainly been known to cause "swelling or pain in your arms or legs", don't know about RLS. Not sure how/if Voltaren differs from Voltarol (UK). I have seen reports that Voltarol gel has been known to cause allergic reactions, but most seem to find it useful. I use Voltarol Joint Pain Relief gel which contains 2.32% Diclofenac diethylammonium but have not noticed any allergic or RLS side effects - but then as often said here we're all different!
I use Voltaren frequently to control the pain from arthritis. I've never had an issue with it triggering RLS and usually it helps as the pain itself is the thing that for me triggers RLs. However, I know that we all react differently to things and our RLS is triggered by a range of things that some experience and others don't so I'm not surprised. Can you find something else to replace it with?
Quite the opposite for most people because Diclofenac is an anti inflammatory and inflammation is the cause of most RLS. What you need to do is find the cause of the inflammation which is causing your arthritis and RLS. In my experience the cause is most often an inflammatory diet and the foods responsible are mostly those which raise insulin levels like refined sugars and starches. Refined seed oils often cause inflammation because they cause oxidative stress.
You might want to try Traumeel-s a homeopathic cream. I'm as big a homeopathic skeptic, but this really does reduce arthritic pain. That said - it might be contributing to insomnia some how - not sure yet.