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

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.

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HOW TO OBSERVE #RestlessLegsAwarenessDay

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.

RESTLESS LEGS AWARENESS DAY HISTORY

The Willis-Ekbom Disease Foundation organized the first observance in 2012.

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