Restless Leg Syndrome (also called Willis-Ekbom’s disease) is categorized as a sleep disorder. It affects 27% of pregnant women.  Restless Leg Syndrome usually ceases after baby is born and is more common in the third trimester. Interruption of sleep is a concern for anyone who suffers from RLS, especially a soon-to-be mother.

Click here for a printable RLS information handout.

Restless Leg Syndrome photo   Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
 * itching, pulling, crawling, throbbing, burning, tingling, urge to move sensations
* usually in legs, but can occur in arms or other body parts
* can interrupt sleep, as it occurs primarily at night
* symptoms increase at times of rest or relaxation (i.e. going to bed or sitting down)
* symptoms decrease with movement (i.e. getting up to stretch or move)

What Helps to Ease Restless Leg Syndrome?

ExerciseReclined Big Toe Pose - Prenatal Yoga

  • regular yoga, walking, stretching
  • movement and stretching when symptoms are first felt

Click here for our Yoga For Restless Leg Syndrome sequence.

Stress Relief

  • relaxation – meditation, restorative yoga
  • massage – focused on feet, legs, and hips
  • hot bath/shower before bed or at the onset of symptoms
  • soak in Epsom salt and warm water before bed (may just be feet or in the bath)
  • orgasm – some women claim this as the cure to  their RLS – it makes sense as it will activate the parasympathetic nervous system (responsible for relaxation)
  • cold – soak feet in cold water or use an ice pack
  • decrease stress when possible

Lifestyle

  • early, regular bedtime
  • elevate legs when working, reading or relaxing

Diet and Vitamins

  • bananas – or other potassium-rich foods
  • vitamin B, magnesium, iron and folic acid **

Things That May Increase RLS symptoms

  • caffeine, alcohol, tobacco
  • lack of sleep or sleep routine
  • anti-depressants or anti-nausea medications**
  • antihistamine medications (i.e. Benadryl)
  • exercise of high intensity or too late in the day

**Note:

before any making any changes to medications or vitamin supplements – check with your healthcare provider.