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September 23rd is Restless Legs Awareness Day #RestlessLegsAwarenessDay. I didn’t know about Restless Legs until David, and I got together. David deals with Leg Cramps that has him curled up on the floor at times.
Other times David’s legs will not be still so we can sleep. I wish I could say I’ve never dealt with these problems, but I have had Leg Cramps and Charlie has both Leg Cramps and Restless Legs like his dad does. Here is some information for you to use or share with anyone you know who has Restless Legs.
Restless Legs Awareness Day is observed every year on September 23rd. The #Holidays is to raise awareness of this medical condition or syndrome known as Restless Legs. Willis-Ekbom Disease is a lifelong neurological condition characterized by an insatiable desire to move the legs in order to relieve unpleasant sensations such as creeping, crawling, pulling, itching, tingling, or burning sensations.
According to the National Institutes of Health, symptoms typically appear in the late afternoon or evening hours and are often most severe at night. Restless legs syndrome affects approximately 12 million people in the United States.
Restless leg Awareness Day is observed every year on September 23 to raise public awareness about this neurologic and sleep-related movement disorder. On September 23, 2012, the first Restless Legs Syndrome Awareness Day was observed. This is the birthday of Professor Karl-Axel Ekborn, a Swedish neurologist who described this disease in detail in his doctoral thesis in 1945. Sir Thomas Willis was the first to describe RLS in 1672. As a result, restless legs syndrome is known as Willis-Ekbom Disease.
Although it is unclear what causes RLS, particular gene variations, low levels of iron in the brain, alterations in the dopamine system, and certain underlying illnesses such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease are thought to be involved.
Although there is no cure, several FDA-approved drugs to treat RLS include Ropinirole, marketed as Requip by GlaxoSmithKline; Mirapex, created by Boehringer Ingelheim; Horizant, produced by GlaxoSmithKline and XenoPort Inc; and Neupro, developed by Schwarz Pharma.
You’ve got options! Here are some effective home remedies and lifestyle changes that can help ease restless legs syndrome (RLS) without a doctor visit:
Physical Comfort Strategies
- Hot and Cold Foot Soaks: Alternate between warm and cold water to stimulate circulation and reduce inflammation.
- Epsom Salt Baths: Soaking in magnesium-rich Epsom salt before bed can relax muscles and calm nerves.
- Warm or Cold Compresses: Applying heat or cold to your legs can distract your brain from the uncomfortable sensations.
- Massage: Gentle leg massages can help relax muscles and reduce discomfort.
Natural Remedies
- Chamomile Tea: Acts as a mild sedative to relax nerves and muscles. Drink 1–2 hours before bed.
- Tonic Water: Contains quinine, which may help calm nerves and improve blood flow. A small amount before bed is considered safe.
- Blackstrap Molasses: Rich in iron, which may help if your RLS is linked to iron deficiency.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Regular Exercise: Moderate daily activity can reduce symptoms, but avoid intense workouts close to bedtime.
- Sleep Hygiene: Stick to a consistent sleep schedule and create a calming bedtime routine.
- Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine—especially in the evening.
- Reduce Stress: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Nutritional Support
- Iron and Vitamin Supplements: Low iron levels are a common trigger. Consider iron, vitamin D, C, and E—but consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements.
If these don’t bring relief or symptoms worsen, it’s worth checking in with a healthcare provider to rule out underlying causes. Want help building a nightly routine around these tips? Leave me a comment and I will get to work on what you need.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
