What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

Posted on August 19th, 2022 by Texas Vein & Wellness Institute

Restless leg syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, causes an uncomfortable need to move your legs. This urge is due to a throbbing, aching, itching or crawling feeling and is often uncontrollable. 

RLS most often flares at night or when sitting for an extended period. Individuals with this syndrome often have to move and shake their legs or walk around to help control the sensation. 

Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome 

One common cause of restless leg syndrome is vein disease. The legs have a deep and superficial venous system, leading to venous insufficiency that is superficial, deep or a combination of the two. 

Venous insufficiency happens when a valve becomes weak. When the leg veins do not close and work as they should, blood can leak back and pool in the lower legs. The resulting pressure causes the veins to stretch, which may impact the nerves.

Overactive nerves can lead to tingling, causing the sensation of wanting to move the legs.

Restless Leg Syndrome Treatments

Treating vein disease can help resolve the symptoms of restless leg syndrome. For minor cases, compression stockings can help add pressure to the lower legs, which helps to reduce discomfort and keep the blood flowing.

Treatment options that can help relieve RLS symptoms include: 

• Sclerotherapy: Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy allows medical providers to take a closer look at less visible veins safely and effectively. It helps guide providers when targeting a vein or veins with the sclerosant solution. The sclerosant causes irritation within the vein wall, causing the vein to collapse.
• Radiofrequency ablation: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) relies on a thin catheter to introduce heat through radiofrequency energy. The heat causes the vein to close and permanently seal shut.
• VenaSeal: Unlike other treatments that rely on heat and local anesthesia, VenaSeal closes the refluxing vein using an advanced medical adhesive. The blood gets redirected into new veins, helping to relieve the uncomfortable symptoms. 

Discover Restless Leg Syndrome Treatments in Texas

Here at Texas Vein & Wellness Institute, our providers can treat your restless leg syndrome. We specialize in both varicose and spider veins and offer several treatments designed to help you find relief. 

No matter what your needs are, our goal is to diagnose and treat your vein disease compassionately. Are you interested in learning more about how we can help?  Give us a call at 281-888-1464 or request a consultation online.