Restless Leg Syndrome During Pregnancy

Pregnant and feeling the need to move your legs while at rest?

Are you finding the only thing that relieves it is movement ?

If this sounds familiar you might have something called Restless Legs Syndrome.

Below our wonderful Myotherapist Stefanie Iverson discusses what it is, how it feels and easy ways to manage this condition.

What is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sensory and motor neurological disorder that is characterized by an urge to move the legs due to unpleasant sensations.

The symptoms occur at rest, are relieved by movement, and usually worsen in the evening.

The key to diagnosing RLS is a careful history intake. Although it can mainly come upon us during night- time when in bed, it can also make itself very noticeable when sitting or lying down.

The severity varies from person to person and studies have shown that it goes away within several days post birth or starts to fade away within the following weeks.

What causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

The possible mechanisms that might contribute to RLS during pregnancy are divided into three categories: hormonal mechanisms, iron and folate metabolism, and other hypotheses (genetics, anxiety, stress, insomnia, etc).

Here is a list of predictors for restless legs syndrome during pregnancy:

  • History of RLS in previous pregnancy

  • History of RLS prior to pregnancy

  • Family history of RLS

  • Anaemia

  • Multiparity (person who has given birth more than once)

  • Low iron levels

  • Low folate levels

  • High oestrogen levels

One of the most important matter is to address it with your OBGYN, GP or other health professional who is qualified to run tests and/or give dietary or medical advice.

How do I manage Restless Leg Syndrome?

Luckily, RLS in pregnancy can be managed with various non-pharmacological protocols such as self-massage, stretching and most importantly, movement!

Movement

Swimming and water aerobics are a great way to reduce the pain of RLS during pregnancy because they take the weight off your legs and feet. The added gentle compression from being submerged in water is a great way to exercise and manage restless legs during pregnancy. Having said that, swimming and water aerobic exercises are not the only way to ease RLS symptoms. Going out for a brisk walk, cycling on a stationary bike or gentle yoga practices will also be very beneficial. Don’t forget that going for nice, short and gentle walks will improve the restless feeling in your legs!

Stretching

Stretching out your legs before bedtime might help with bringing some relief. Propping up your legs against the wall is a good way to start especially if you are nearing towards the end of the third trimester. From this position, you can also place a band or scarf around your foot and gently pull towards yourself to get an increased stretch. Another stretch to do for the legs is sitting down on the floor legs apart in a “V” shape and slowly and gently bending forward trying to cusp the mid-sole of the foot one foot at a time. If you cannot reach as far as the mid-sole, try aiming for the ankles or tops of toes.

Massage

Seeing a qualified myotherapist (like at The Wellness Nest) who specialises in pregnancy care can provide you with a beautiful and safe massage throughout the legs and lower back to bring ease and prepare you for a good night’s sleep (hopefully more than just a few nights’ sleep!).

Ask your practitioner how to self-massage according to your symptoms, needs and physiology. Book in for our 90 minute pregnancy myotherapy appointment now!