There is a condition known as restless legs syndrome (RLS) which causes an overwhelming urge to move the legs. This urge is accompanied by a tingling or burning sensation in the legs. RLS can occur at any time, but is most commonly worse at night, which can make it difficult to fall asleep.
There is no known cure for RLS, but there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms. Chiropractic care is one such treatment. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to help relieve the symptoms of RLS.
One such technique is known as spinal manipulative therapy. This involves the chiropractor using their hands to manipulate the spine and other joints in the body. This can help to relieve the pressure on the nerves which may be causing the symptoms of RLS.
Another technique that chiropractors may use is known as electrical muscle stimulation. This involves the use of electrical currents to stimulate the muscles. This can help to reduce the symptoms of RLS by increasing blood flow to the muscles and reducing the tension in the muscles.
There is no guarantee that chiropractic care will help with RLS, but many people have found it to be a beneficial treatment. If you are suffering from RLS, it may be worth considering chiropractic care as a treatment option.
How is restless legs syndrome diagnosed?
There is no one definitive test for restless legs syndrome (RLS). The diagnosis of RLS is generally made based on a careful medical history and clinical exam. A variety of screening questionnaires are also available to help identify patients with RLS.
The most important part of the medical history is the description of the symptoms. The hallmark symptom of RLS is an urge to move the legs, usually accompanied by an unpleasant sensation in the legs. The urge to move and the sensation are worse at rest and relieve with movement.
Most patients with RLS also have periodic limb movements during sleep (PLMS). PLMS are involuntary leg movements that occur every 20-40 seconds during sleep. They are often describe as twitching, jerking, or kicking movements.
Based on the history and clinical exam, your doctor may order blood tests to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as iron deficiency anaemia or problems with kidney function.
A sleep study may also be ordered to confirm the diagnosis of RLS and to rule out other sleep disorders. During a sleep study, electrodes are placed on the legs and a sleep technician monitors leg movements and brain waves during sleep.
If you have classic RLS symptoms and a normal sleep study, no further testing is generally required. If the diagnosis is uncertain, your doctor may refer you to a sleep specialist for additional evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you see a chiropractor for RLS?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best course of action for managing RLS will vary depending on the individual’s specific symptoms and health history. However, if you experience moderate to severe pain in your legs when sitting or standing, it may be worth consulting with a chiropractor to see if they can improve your symptoms.
Is there a cure for restless leg syndrome?
There is currently no cure for restless leg syndrome (RLS), but there are treatments that can help manage the symptoms. If you don’t want to take medication, your best bet is to try relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, to improve your overall wellbeing. You may also find relief from complementary therapies, such as reflexology or aromatherapy.
Why turn to chiropractic care for leg pain?
There are many chiropractors that will attribute leg pain to a variety of issues. Some of them may include: disc herniations, inflammatory conditions, and nerve impingement. Each of these can be attributable to the individual's posture or gait and chiropractic care is uniquely suited to treat each one individually. Chiropractic care couples adjustments with non-invasive therapies such as heat treatment and massage which work together synergistically in order to provide relief from the underlying cause.
What is restless leg syndrome&chirpiness?
Restless leg syndrome is a condition in which the individual experiences an anxious feeling (sometimes subconsciously) and the urge to rapidly tap their foot or shake the leg occurs. Although this is not necessarily a painful condition it can impede an individual’s quality of life. Chirpiness refers to repetitive jerking movements of the extremity(s). This may occur spontaneously, or as a result of mental or physical stimulation. It is most commonly seen in children, however the elderly may also be affected. Chiral activity is indicative of normal neurological function. In some cases, chirpiness may herald the onset of a more serious movement disorder such as Parkinson's disease or Huntington's disease.
Can chiropractic care help restless leg syndrome?
Chiropractic care has been found to be effective in relieving restless leg syndrome symptoms. In particular, chiropractors may help to reduce the frequency of leg movements and the amount of discomfort felt. Chiropractic adjustments are believed to correct imbalances in the body’s nervous system, which can improve centralized motor control and coordination within the legs. If you are experiencing restless leg syndrome, it is worth discussing your options for relief with a doctor. However, chiropractic care may be an effective way to help ease your symptoms.
Sources
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