Computer Games and RLS

[bumblebee_tuna]

I read somewhere that playing computer games distracts the brain and reduces the symptoms of RLS. It sounds so stupid, but I think it does make a difference. If my legs bother me when I go to bed, I lie in bed and play something on my phone.

[SueJohnson]

Yep - any distraction works at least while you are doing it.

[bumblebee_tuna in reply to SueJohnson]

Is it really any distraction? Reading books did nothing for my RLS, I think there is a level of engagement that is needed.

[SueJohnson in reply to bumblebee_tuna]

Yes generally one should be actively involved like crossword puzzles or knitting. But even listening to music, meditation and yoga works for some. Of course it can be different for everyone.

[ELLSBELLS]

Pleased it works for you but I have yet to find any distraction which takes my mind off the terrible creepy crawly sensations.

[Bridall]

Gin rummy card game on computer works for me. Choose a medium level. Usually one or two games works for me. Then put some cooling gel on your legs. If not get up make a hot drink and have a paracetamol or codeine. I have managed to avoid prescription so far.

[daisyw in reply to Bridall]

Don't play the card game, but I agree with the rest of your ''cure''. Hope I never have to go on the prescribed meds. I have suffered for years and do a fair bit of walking round the house some nights

[Nikos64]

yup it works until you get tired

[Simkin]

It is not stupid. Anything to distract the brain. I always send my emails by phone at night while walking around in kitchen.

[Rayme]

I find it helps stop RL when I do online jigsaw puzzles. I've done this at all hours of the night and after 30minutes or so my eyes are very tired and the extra dopamine (I assume thats the reason) will usually allow me to sleep for up to 3 hrs then the RL starts again.

[grassgree]

Yes, studies have confirmed that dopamine levels can increase while playing computer games. It is different for everyone, but it's not stupid and not your imagination.

[Beckonwood]

My problem with this is that once I put my phone down and settle down in bed my symptons start up and I certainly can't continue to play games on my phone as I need sleep.

[Rezcat11 in reply to Beckonwood]

That's why I have to take my opiates and when I can be in bed with distraction, play online mahjong or read reddit posts until I am nodding out. Yes, it sucks but otherwise, no sleep at all.

[Moonwalker1967]

Computer games give your dopamine levels a boost. Makes total sense. Any suggestions which ones to play?

[bumblebee_tuna in reply to Moonwalker1967]

According to Google Bard, the best games would be one that work with the brain's reward system:

1) Competitive multiplayer games: These games involve competing against other players, which can be very stimulating and rewarding. When you win, you get a sense of accomplishment and superiority, which releases dopamine. Some popular competitive multiplayer games include Fortnite, Call of Duty, and League of Legends.

2) Gambling games: Gambling games involve taking risks and winning money, which can be very exciting and rewarding. When you win, you get a rush of dopamine that can be very addictive. Some popular gambling games include slot machines, poker, and blackjack.

3) Progression games: These games involve leveling up your character, unlocking new skills, and completing challenges. This sense of progression can be very rewarding and stimulating, as it gives you a sense of accomplishment. Some popular progression games include World of Warcraft, Minecraft, and The Elder Scrolls series.

4) Reward-based games: These games are designed to give you rewards for completing certain tasks or challenges. These rewards can be anything from new items to in-game currency. When you get a reward, it releases dopamine, which reinforces the behavior that led to the reward. Some popular reward-based games include Candy Crush Saga, FarmVille, and Angry Birds.

[Moonwalker1967]

Thanks for sharing.

[Axex]

I find the reverse happens particularly in the evening . I enjoy playing games on iphone and tablet but in the evening RLS means I‘m drumming my feet while trying to complete a game or finish something online .I then have to stop and go walkabout. Music and singing work better.

[Eryl]

It's still not a cure for the problem wich is due to inflammed nerves from your diet. It is slowly harming your cardiovascular and mental health.

[John_naylor]

I leave the washing up and do that when I get up with RLS during the night. Second occasion I prep breakfast. Third occasion I do killer sudokus and have been known to do the ironing. Generally 30 mins and back to bed. It may not increase dopamine but increases my ‘points’ with my wife!

[johannasuar]

Hey, it’s true. When I first started with RLS I realized that if I kept my brain occupied I felt better specially when traveling distance. Now when my meds haven’t started working and I’m in bed suffering with the RLS, I get up sit up in my living room and play my games on the tablet, now I’m hooked on dumb games but feel great 👍😂

[ziggypiggy]

I learned as a child with RLS that distraction works well. Unfortunately, it created fairly hard wired coping mechanisms and a resistance to even try to sleep and instead go straight to the distractions hoping I'll just pass out. Of course I didn't know better then. So even now that my symptoms are pretty well in check with meds I still head straight to distractions at bed time. Because ya never know ... lol