RESTLESS LEGS AWARENESS DAY

On September 23, Restless Legs Awareness Day promotes education around a medical condition impacting adults and children alike.

#RestlessLegsAwarenessDay

Professor Karl-Axel Ekborn, a Swedish neurologist, first described this syndrome in 1945. We have learned a lot about it since then, and there is still no known cause for it.

Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease (WED), is characterized by uncontrollable urges to move the legs. The condition affects approximately 7 percent of the population. Those experiencing severe symptoms say it impacts their quality of life. RLS, the condition presents with the following symptoms:

Strong urges to move the legs; unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations accompany the urges as well.
The symptoms worsen when relaxing or inactive; they're especially worse when trying to sleep.
However, symptoms seem to improve when moving, stretching, walking.
During the night and evening hours symptoms increase.
There doesn't seem to be any other associated cause - arthritis, injury.

Those with RSL lead normal lives. Identifying and eliminating exacerbating medications reduces symptoms. Researchers continue seeking a cause for RLS.

HOW TO OBSERVE RESTLESS LEGS AWARENESS DAY

If RLS seems to be affecting your lifestyle, see a doctor. Share treatments that have worked best for you. Help those with RLS and visit rls.org to learn more. While learning more, give your legs some much-needed pampering. Use the day for a leg massage or a little exercise. You can also make an appointment to see your doctor. Seek out the relief you deserve. Use #RestlessLegsAwarenessDay to post on social media.