Restless Leg Syndrome

Most people with restless leg describe it as an irresistible urge to move their legs accompanied with pain, cramping, and aching in the lower legs. While the cause of this disorder is unknown, many patients have folic acid deficiency resulting from poor or no ability to absorb folic acid from the foods they consume. RLS tends to run in families and research indicates that it may be due to imbalances of dopamine, a brain neurotransmitter responsible for sending messages to control muscle movement. Low iron levels, hormone deficiencies, nerve damage and circulation problems can contribute to this condition, and food allergies can aggravate restless leg. Drug therapy is powerful, but can have serious (dangerous) side effects over the long-term.

Rule Out Low Folic Acid

Initial treatment with a series of folic acid injections is given over three weeks. The results are often remarkable with folic acid providing immediate relief for many. Oral supplementation of this vitamin does not work as effectively as injections. Dietary and lifestyle changes specific to restless leg syndrome lessen the symptoms. Foods identified through allergy testing that aggravate RLS should be avoided. Iron levels need to be assessed and corrected as needed. When circulation is identified as a problem, intravenous injection therapy, especially plaquex, is used to improve blood flow.

Nourish Your Brain

Enhancing the levels and action of dopamine in the brain improves RLS. Dopamine responds well to proper dosages of the amino acids tyrosine and phenylalanine, vitamins, minerals, neurotransmitters and omega fats that support brain function.

Don’t Forget Hormones

In some cases, women have an over-production of the hormone estrogen that leads to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, particularly magnesium and vitamin B6 that contribute to restless leg. Treatment with the hormone progesterone decreases the negative affect of estrogen by correcting the estrogen/progesterone ratio, resulting in improvement of RLS.  In some cases, complete hormone balancing that includes vitamin D is required to resolve restless leg.

Results are Extraordinary

Don’t suffer with the pain and discomfort of restless leg.  A challenging condition, RLS will take longer to treat, but recovery can be permanent. For many patients, folic acid injections and treatment to increase dopamine levels can provide significant results in a matter of weeks.

Call 250-545-0800 now to book an appointment