Restless leg syndrome is a sensorimotor condition in which there is an overwhelming urge to move the legs, brought on by an uncomfortable or unpleasant sensation in the legs. The sensation is often described as creeping, burning or twitching. Moving the legs will temporarily relieve the sensation. The movement occurs during periods of inactivity and becomes more sensitive in the evening and at night. There can be involuntary jerking of the limbs during sleep and sometimes during wakefulness. The condition causes sleep disturbance with associated daytime tiredness or fatigue. It is estimated 8% of the US population may have this neurologic condition.
Pedorthists are involved in making exercising more comfortable, increasing blood circulation to the extremities and in reducing undue impact on the legs. These efforts aid in better sleep and rest.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Sometimes associated with Fibromyalgia
Symptoms:
- Overwhelming urge to move the legs, brought on by an uncomfortable or unpleasant sensation in the legs
- Pain, burning, creeping sensation in legs
- Symptoms temporarily relieved by moving the legs
- Symptoms worse at night
- Sleep disorder and associated problems
Signs to look for:
- Involuntary and voluntary movement of the legs
- Sleep deprivation symptoms
- Pacing at night to relieve sensations
- Iron deficiency
Possible Causes:
- A misfiring of neural signals to the legs
- Research indicates a link to low iron intake
Goals:
- Address exercise components as exercise is key to reducing pain, aiding sleep, increasing blood circulation, reducing depressive symptoms
- Address posture and balance issues to reduce discomfort in knees, hips, back and chest
- Stimulate blood circulation in the foot and legs
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- For Smart footwear, heel to toe rockers, negative heel footwear or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Wear pumps and high heels only as long as absolutely necessary
- Avoid going barefoot or do so on a minimal basis only
Other:
Activities:
- Medical treatment as necessary
- Regular stretching program before and after exercise
- Regular exercise program with attention to aerobic conditioning and lower body strength
- Rotation of weight bearing and non-weight bearing exercising, such as walking (weight bearing) with swimming or bicycling (non-weight bearing)
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Text: Live:psu.edu: Penn State Univ: J. Connor, PhD, RLS.org