What Is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?

Restless Legs Syndrome is a chronic neurological condition that causes an irresistible urge to move the legs, especially during periods of rest or inactivity. It’s often described as tingling, crawling, pulling, or throbbing sensations deep within the legs. These symptoms typically worsen in the evening or at night, interfering with your ability to fall or stay asleep.

RLS affects both men and women of all ages, though it is more common in middle-aged and older adults. In many cases, the cause is unknown but RLS may also be associated with iron deficiency, chronic illness, or medication side effects.

How RLS Leads to Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS)

Even though RLS is rooted in the nervous system, its most serious impacts are felt in your sleep:

  • Interrupted Sleep: Constant leg movement disrupts sleep continuity, causing frequent awakenings and light, non-restorative sleep.
  • Delayed Sleep Onset: Many people with RLS lie awake for hours struggling to fall asleep due to intense discomfort.
  • Reduced Sleep Quality: Even when asleep, the brain may not fully rest due to subconscious leg movement.

Over time, this leads to Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS) — causing fatigue, reduced focus, memory problems, and increased risk of accidents at work or while driving.

Get Assessed by a Sleep Physician

  • Common Symptoms of RLS

    • A strong urge to move your legs, usually accompanied by discomfort
    • Symptoms that begin or worsen during periods of rest, especially in the evening
    • Relief through movement (e.g., walking, stretching)
    • Sleep disruption due to discomfort or leg twitching
    • Tingling, burning, or aching sensations that make it hard to relax
    • Daytime fatigue or low energy due to poor sleep

  • Who’s at Risk for RLS?

    You may be at higher risk if you:

    • Have a family history of RLS
    • Are iron deficient or have anemia
    • Are pregnant (especially in the third trimester)
    • Have chronic conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or peripheral neuropathy
    • Use certain medications (e.g., antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics)
    • Are sleep-deprived or have another sleep disorder like insomnia or sleep apnea
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RLS Treatment Options at The Sleep Institute

At The Sleep Institute, we take a medical approach to managing RLS, offering a combination of proven therapies based on your individual needs:

Medication Management

  • Medications that reduce nerve irritability/restlessness
  • Medications that increase dopamine to reduce movement and irritability agonists to regulate movement and sensory pathways
  • Iron supplementation to raise low iron levels and relieve the restlessness 

Lifestyle-Based Interventions

  • Reducing caffeine and alcohol intake
  • Engaging in moderate, consistent physical activity
  • Practicing sleep hygiene and maintaining a consistent bedtime
  • Using heat or cold therapy to calm the legs

Why Choose The Sleep Institute for RLS?

  • Sleep Physician–led care, not technician-only services

  • Full assessment to rule out related conditions like sleep apnea or insomnia

  • Customized treatment combining neurological insight and sleep science

  • Covered by Alberta and NWT Health

  • No referral required — self-referrals welcome

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