RESTLESS LEGS

Understanding the Connection Between Restless Legs Syndrome and Venous Insufficiency

If you’re one of the millions of people struggling with restless legs syndrome (RLS), you know how disruptive and uncomfortable this condition can be. What you may not know is that RLS is often connected to an underlying vascular issue, venous insufficiency. At VIE, we specialize in identifying and treating the root causes of RLS, helping you find lasting relief and improved quality of life.

Definition

What is Restless Legs Syndrome?

RLS, also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological sensorimotor disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically accompanied by uncomfortable sensations that worsen at rest and improve with movement. While the exact cause of RLS remains unknown, research suggests a strong link between RLS and venous insufficiency.

Symptoms

Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in the veins weaken or become damaged, allowing blood to pool in the legs instead of efficiently returning to the heart. This pooling can lead to various symptoms, including:

  • Leg heaviness and achiness
  • Swelling
  • Varicose veins
  • Skin discoloration
  • Restlessness

Treatment and Benefits

How We Treat Restless Legs Syndrome

Treating venous insufficiency can often improve RLS symptoms. Our comprehensive treatment approach may include:

  • Lifestyle modifications to improve blood flow and reduce pressure in the legs
  • Compression stockings to help squeeze blood back toward the heart
  • Iron supplementation to correct deficiencies and improve RLS symptoms
  • Medications to manage RLS symptoms directly
  • Minimally invasive procedures, such as ablation or sclerotherapy, to address severe cases of venous insufficiency

If you’re struggling with restless legs syndrome, don’t hesitate to contact VIE for a thorough evaluation. Our team of experts will work with you to identify any underlying venous insufficiency and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief and reclaim your quality of life.

  1. Trenkwalder, C., Allen, R., Högl, B., Paulus, W., & Winkelmann, J. (2016). Restless legs syndrome associated with major diseases: A systematic review and new concept. Neurology, 86(14), 1336-1343. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000002542