Discover what Restless Legs Syndrome is, its causes and symptoms, and how to relieve it through practical strategies and effective treatments.

Have you ever felt an irresistible urge to move your legs, especially in the evening or during the night? Or perhaps a tingling, tension, or discomfort that eases only when you start moving? It might be Restless Legs Syndrome, also known by its acronym RLS.

This neurological disorder is more common than you might think and can have a major impact on sleep quality and, consequently, on daily well-being. Poor sleep, frequent awakenings, or trouble falling asleep are common effects that, over time, can undermine energy and concentration.

Also referred to as Willis-Ekbom disease, RLS manifests as an almost uncontrollable impulse to move the legs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations like burning, itching, or inner tension. These sensations occur mainly when the body is at rest — for example, when sitting for long periods or lying in bed — and tend to improve, at least temporarily, with movement.

The disorder worsens in the evening and at night, following the body’s circadian rhythm. In many cases, those affected by RLS also experience involuntary, repetitive leg movements during sleep, which interrupt rest and make sleep less restorative.

Causes and risk factors

The causes of Restless Legs Syndrome are not yet fully understood, but research has identified several underlying mechanisms and predisposing factors. It is believed to be related to an alteration in the dopaminergic system, which regulates movement, and a deficiency of iron in the brain, a key element in dopamine production. Genetics also seem to play a role, as do certain medical conditions such as kidney failure, peripheral neuropathies, and pregnancy.

There are also factors that can aggravate the symptoms, such as caffeine, alcohol, or certain medications, particularly antidepressants and antihistamines. The likelihood of developing RLS tends to increase with age.

RLS and sleep

One of the most challenging aspects of the syndrome is its influence on sleep. Symptoms intensify precisely during rest hours, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep. This happens because dopamine levels naturally decrease in the evening, and in people with RLS this reduction can heighten motor restlessness and discomfort.

The result is often fragmented sleep, with frequent awakenings and a persistent feeling of fatigue during the day. In the long term, the lack of deep, regular sleep can negatively affect not only mood but also concentration and quality of life.

How to relieve symptoms

Although there is no definitive cure, several strategies can help manage and ease symptoms. In mild cases, modifying certain daily habits can make a real difference: maintaining a regular sleep routine, avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine in the evening, and engaging in moderate, consistent physical activity such as walking or stretching.

Many people also find relief through warm baths, massages, or simple relaxation techniques, which help relax the muscles and reduce nervous tension.

In some cases, if nutritional deficiencies such as low iron levels are found, the doctor may recommend targeted supplementation. When symptoms are more severe or persistent, treatment may include specific medications such as dopaminergic agents, anticonvulsants, or iron supplements, always under medical supervision.

It is important to consult a neurologist or a specialized center if symptoms become frequent, disrupt sleep, or interfere with daily activities. An accurate diagnosis, which may include blood tests to assess iron and ferritin levels, helps identify the cause and define a personalized treatment plan.

Restless Legs Syndrome is a common yet often underestimated condition. Recognizing it and discussing it with a doctor is the first step toward managing it effectively. Even though there is no universal remedy, small lifestyle changes combined with appropriate medical advice can significantly improve sleep quality and restore lightness to the nights and days of those affected.

Scientific Sources

1. Exploration of Restless Legs Syndrome under the New Concept: A Review. PMC9771278
2. Restless Legs Syndrome: Contemporary Diagnosis and Treatment. PMC8116476
3. Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome: Evidence-Based Review and Update. PubMed 29756335
4. Advancements in Restless Legs Syndrome Management: A Review. PMC10633497
5. Restless Legs Syndrome: From Pathophysiology to Clinical. PMC5454050
6. Practice Guideline Summary: Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome in Adults. Neurology, 2016
7. The Efficacy and Safety of Pharmacological Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2021
8. Case Report: A New Treatment for Restless Legs Syndrome: Three Cases. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2024
9. Unraveling Restless Legs Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review. PMC12296998