What Are the Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome and Nocturnal Leg Cramps?
A physician should first try to treat any underlying medical condition that may be causing restless legs. In the elderly, iron deficiency is often a cause and in such cases iron supplements can produce a significant reduction in symptoms. If the cause cannot be determined, it is best to try sleep hygiene and relaxation methods first. Hot baths or cold compresses may help. These therapies can provide added benefits, even if drug therapy is required. Some patients report that symptoms do not occur if they sleep late in the morning, so if it is professionally feasible, changing sleep patterns may be helpful. If medications being taken for other medical conditions worsen RLS, a physician may be able to prescribe alternatives. Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques Cognitive-behavioral techniques are helpful for retraining healthy sleep patterns, which can occur in people who have developed patterns of sleeplessness from RLS. Such techniques combine sleep hygiene (see Table), relaxation techniques
