How to Use Exercise to Manage Restless Leg Syndrome

The mystery of the cause of restless leg syndrome (RLS) provides little knowledge in how to manage the symptoms of this disorder. Until a definitive cause is determined, simple measures such as exercise are the major options for obtaining relief. A lifestyle change that includes exercise, proper diet and medication makes RLS manageable for millions of people.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Set aside a specific time to exercise. Consistency is crucial to achieving the maximum results for controlling RLS symptoms.
2. Choose exercises that are moderate in intensity. Include adequate warm-up and cool-down segments in every exercise routine.
3. Include walking as part of your exercise routine. The muscles you use walking are the same muscles that tend to feel the creepy-crawling sensations described by RLS sufferers.
4. Set your time for the most intense exercise early in the day. At bedtime, use methods that are gentle on the muscles such as stretching, yoga and meditation.
5. Manage the symptoms by the use of a warm bath or heating pad prior to exercise. The heat enhances the ability of the muscle to stretch without triggering a spasm or jerking sensation.
6. Follow any exercise routine with a relaxing time in a hot tub. This encourages the body's circulatory system to refresh muscle tissue.
7. Include the use of your mind during exercise routines. Do exercises that require coordination and the thought processes. This stimulates the brain to produce hormones that are effective in restoring the body's natural balance.
8. Include a time of deep breathing during exercise. The use of proper breathing techniques increases the amount of oxygen available for transport via the blood to the muscles. This enhances the health of the muscle and nerve tissue.
9. Ride an exercise bike for an alternative to walking. This type of exercise adds muscle tone to the muscles active in RLS. A moderate amount of tension is all that is needed for obtaining results.

Tips & Warnings

• Determining the amount of exercise that is effective for the control of RLS symptoms is through trial and error. Too much exercise can cause symptoms to become worse, and too little exercise may trigger an episode. Getting the right balance is essential to obtaining good results.
• Before starting any exercise program, see your doctor for a complete checkup. Symptoms of RLS can duplicate other disease processes that require specific treatment.

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