Massage Therapy for Restless Leg Syndrome

"It feels like bugs crawling on me." "My legs won't stop tingling." "I have to sit on the aisle so I can move around." People with Restless Leg Syndrome recognize those sensations immediately. Even though RLS is classified as a sleep disorder by the American Medical Association, its symptoms occur more often when you're awake.

That's because lying or sitting still exacerbates the twitchy, painful sensations in your calf, thigh or ankle. Walking around, doing deep knee bends or rubbing your legs can help, but that makes it difficult to get a good night's sleep.

How Massage Helps

Massage is frequently recommended as a way of getting relief from RLS. Other recommendations include regular exercise, hot or cold baths, weight loss and quitting smoking. But massage has additional benefits.

First is improved circulation. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke theorizes that poor circulation may be related to Restless Leg Syndrome. Massage is known to boost circulation, because the pressure provided by your therapist helps move blood through congested areas.

Releasing that pressure makes new blood flow in, while also improving circulation of the lymph fluid that removes metabolic waste from your muscles and internal organs. It adds up to improved body function as well as lower blood pressure.

Stress Relief

People dealing with RLS have to cope with the stress of lost sleep and difficulty sitting still, yet stress can make Restless Leg Syndrome even worse.

Fortunately, the professional therapists at Massage Envy are experienced in providing the regular, relaxing massage that reduces tension and relieves stress. One result of such relaxation? A better night's sleep.