Willis-Ekbom Disease, better known as Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), affects nearly 10 percent of the US population today. Characterized by unpleasant sensations in the legs, the cause of this neurological condition is unknown in most people although it has been linked to a number of things such as smoking, obesity and iron deficiency among others. However, today a new study is showing that early brain development may play a role in RLS.
Scientists in Germany recently published findings suggesting that Restless Leg Syndrome, which is typically associated with aging, may actually have origins in fetal development. Their findings show that “minor alterations in the developing forebrain during early embryonic development are probably leading to a predisposition to RLS”. This predisposition, along with environmental factors seems to lead to the manifestation of the disease.
While there is still much to learn about RLS, studies such as these are giving more insight into the underlying cause. Understanding the environmental factors that contribute to experiencing the symptoms of RLS is an important step in working toward prevention. RLS has been associated with the following:
- Pregnancy
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Nerve disease
- Iron deficiency
- Diabetes
- Kidney failure
- Caffeine, alcohol and some drugs and medications
Treatment for RLS varies as widely as the possible causes. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, there are many avenues for treatment. As with many neurological conditions, medications have been part of traditional care plans but today there are many drug-free options as well. Mild cases of RLS may be helped with exercise, stretching and hot baths. Some experts recommend mentally challenging activities to reduce symptoms and, as many times RLS is linked to environmental factors, lifestyle changes can have a great impact of reducing symptoms.
As with most neurological conditions, a safe and effective way to treat RLS lies in Chiropractic Neurology. By exploring the brain-body connection and treating the nervous system, conditions like RLS have been shown to respond well, and quickly, to treatment. Chiropractic neurology is a highly specialized field and seeks to determine and treat the underlying causes of a patient’s condition, all without drugs or surgeries.
If you are experiencing symptoms of RLS and would like to find out how Chiropractic Neurology can benefit you and put you back on the track to living a life of optimal health, contact Dr Marc Ellis today at the Georgia Chiropractic Neurology Center.