Dear Dr. Cutler,

When I’m trying to sleep at night, I am often plagued by a tingling inside my legs and I have to move them. Sometimes I even have to get up and walk around to try to get relief. Could you give me your thoughts on my problem and what might be causing it? Also, could you please give me some ideas on how to control it without medicine?

                                                                                                          —Versey G.

 Dear Versey,

It sounds as though you may be experiencing restless leg syndrome (RLS) which can cause an unpleasant numbness and tingling deep inside your legs while you’re sleeping or simply at rest. This leads to an irresistible urge to move your legs or walk around, but the relief the movement provides is short-lived.

Unfortunately, the real cause of RLS isn’t well understood, but the most common cause seems to be from certain anti-psychotic drugs, antidepressants and even stomach acid blockers. However, it’s believed that RLS can also be triggered by:

• Iron deficiency—sometimes after giving blood
• Kidney failure
• Pregnancy
• Caffeine
• Alcohol

To get non-prescription relief from RLS, try hot baths, massage or exercise. These help provide a healthy blood flow to the muscles in your legs. Also, you should identify and stop consuming any substances that might be contributing to your RLS such as caffeine, alcohol or over-the-counter medications. If you are taking prescription medications that you believe might be triggering your episodes, please seek the advice of your personal healthcare professional before you stop taking them.

Another natural method of relief is through supplements such as magnesium and valerian root that can help relax your muscles. But if they don’t work for you, you could try the natural supplement gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—a natural neurotransmitter that helps promote relaxation.

All the best!
Michael Cutler, M.D.