Restless Leg Syndrome

Are you kept awake at night with irresistible urges to move your legs; a “creeping” feeling in the legs; persistent leg movement during sleep; or tingling, burning, aching or numbness of the legs? This is known as Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and is thought to affect as much as 15 percent of the general population. The symptoms of RLS are worse at night or during periods of relaxation, such as lying down during the day. They tend to improve with activity. These symptoms disrupt the sleep not only of the RLS sufferer but can disrupt the sleep of their bed partner as well.

RLS and Varicose Veins

Venous insufficiency is an often-overlooked cause of Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). Several studies indicate that as many as 22% of those with RLS also have venous insufficiency. When restless legs occur with venous insufficiency, the RLS can be improved significantly by treating the varicose veins. A study published in the Journal of Phlebology reported that in patients with both RLS and venous disease, 98 percent had their RLS symptoms relieved with varicose vein treatment and 80 percent of patients experienced long-term relief. If you suffer from RLS, a simple office evaluation and noninvasive duplex ultrasound of your legs is the first step you should take. If you are diagnosed with underlying venous disease and you have restless legs, there is hope.

How Is RLS Treated?

We recommend that anyone who suffers from the symptoms of RLS schedule a consultation with our office. During this consultation, we will perform a diagnostic ultrasound assessment. This ultrasound tells us if venous insufficiency is present. If so, we will plan a course of treatment for the varicose veins, which usually includes a combination of laser treatment and sclerotherapy. This treatment will treat the varicose veins and can improve the symptoms of RLS, avoiding the lifelong need to take a neurologic medication.

Schedule an Appointment

Please fill out the form below or give us a call to schedule your appointment.

What happens in a consultation?

  • Meet Dr. Robert Shapiro.
  • Help him understand your goals.
  • Dr Shapiro will customize a treatment plan for you, following your detailed ultrasound.

“I would highly recommend Dr. Shapiro and his staff! The whole process is very smooth and quick. It’s extremely clean and the entire staff is caring, kind and friendly!”

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