Twitchy Legs - Your Problem ?

 

Q.	Something odd happens as I go off to sleep: my legs feel twitchy and uncomfortable and start jerking so that I wake up. It's very disruptive to a normal sleep pattern. Can you tell me what this is and what I can do about it ?
A.	You are suffering from restless leg syndrome, which is a type of sleeping disorder. This occurs because the brain misfires and stray electrical currents go to the legs, triggering involuntary movements as well as aches and pains in your calves.

There are several possible causes. Firstly, you might have circulatory problems. These are most likely if you have a standing job which compromises your circulation. When you lie or sit in a certain position for a long time - for instance with one leg on to of another - your circulation gets worse and you experience the sensation you describe. They are caused by the production of lactic acid as a result of incomplete combustion. During normal energy combustion, glucose is converted into carbon dioxide and water. Because of the impaired circulation, there is a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream, so the process stops at the stage of lactic acid. The solution is to massage your legs with oil and then soak your feet and ankles in a warm footbath with plenty of sea salt. I don't recommend having a hot bath near bedtime because contrary to what many people think, it's not good for sleeping.
In the brainstem there is a network of nerve fibres linked to parts of the brain (like a telephone exchange). This selects and passes electrical impulses to the conscious brain. Just before sleep this network, known as reticular information, blocks all impulses to the brain. If you are extremely stressed or tense, the reticular formation is bombarded with excess electrical impulses and sometimes it gets overloaded and a sudden change reaches the brain, causing to entire body to jerk.
Secondly, the problem could be due to anxiety and hyperactivity. The reticular formation coordinates all the vital centres of your body to prepare you for sleep. If you are anxious and preoccupied, however, the reticular formation may not be able to cope. The stress overload causes a massive electrical impulse to the brain, which triggers involuntary reaction such as restless legs. The answer is to massage your neck and spine before going to sleep to improve the blood flow to the brainstem through the artery in the neck.
Another possible cause is walking dreams. This is like a mild version of sleepwalking, if you are travelling somewhere in your dreams, you probably won't remember it, but your hands and legs may twitch. The best way to deal with this is relaxation breathing ( see below ).
People who have been very active, the suddenly stopped may also suffer from this syndrome. Regular gentle exercise is important. Mineral deficiency may also be implicated, especially if you suffer from osteoporosis. Deficiency of calcium in muscles can cause spasms or cramps at night.

Relax and breath
Your brain is comforted by rhythms and cycles. Breathing is the most basic rhythm for mankind but it's important and usefulness are much neglected. When you get into bed, lie down comfortable, flat on your back - don't have more that one pillow. Close your eyes and breath in deeply, counting slowly to three. Exhale counting to six. Repeat this six times, then inhale counting to four, and exhale to eight; repeat six times again. Do this every night for as long as possible. You will probably fall asleep before you stop.

Restless leg syndrome
We have received some interesting letters regarding Restless Leg Syndrome or more commonly known as RSL. Mrs Linda Ord of Surry described it as "a cross between a bee sting and an electric shock" and "having legs that appear to be possessed by Michael Flatley".
 

Disclaimer :
The Lupus Group of WA ( Inc ) does not recommend or endorse any products, drugs, treatments, procedures, medical or health professional in this article. We suggest you discuss this information with your doctor or specialist.