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5 stars ANSWERED on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 7:11 pm UTC by rainbow

Question: What is this Condition called and can it be Treated?

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Asked by probo on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 6:16 pm UTC:

One of my neighbours (a woman in her late forties) suffers from a Condition
which prevents her standing still for any length of time and she
continually hops from one foot to the other. (This is not very noticeable
until it has been pointed out.)

Her Condition prevents her from working or even going to the theatre (which
she loves). Also she is now unable to drive a car and she can only walk
shortish distances.

I have known her for 10 years and, at first, she appeared to be perfectly
normal but I suppose she has now been affected for about 6 years.

Naturally, she has visited the doctor and others providing treatment but
without any success. This has made her very disillusioned about ever
finding some suitable relief. 

Consequently, she has shied away from even visiting a Chiropractor for a
free consultation - even though I have suggested (from personal experience)
one with an excellent reputation.

Looking forward!

Probo

Uclue Researcher Request for clarification by Researcher rainbow on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 6:34 pm UTC:

Hi probo,

Sounds like your friend may have Ekbom’s Syndrome, also known as Restless
Legs Syndrome (RLS).

http://www.herbsmd.com/cure169/Restless-legs-Syndrome.html

http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Restless-Legs-Syndrome.htm

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/medical/ekbom_s_syndrome.htm


Let me know if you think this could be it.

Best regards,
Rainbow

Uclue Researcher Request for clarification by Researcher rainbow on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 6:49 pm UTC:

Or it could be Akathisia.

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/a/akathisia/intro.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akathisia

Question clarification by probo on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 6:55 pm UTC:

Marvellous, Rainbow, I'm sure that you've nailed the Condition.

And amazingly quickly, too!

From your Links, I get the impression that Treatment seems very unlikely
which could account for this woman's scepticism.

(I have, of course, discounted the Ad which promises a 'Proven Cure' for
$29.95.)

However, if you can find any realistic Treatment options then please
advise, as this would then take us into Bonus Territory.

Otherwise, please post an Answer.

All the Best

Probo

Question clarification by probo on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 6:57 pm UTC:

Wow, Rainbow, I now find a Second Opinion.

Please give me a chance to read about Akathisia.

Probo

Question clarification by probo on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 7:01 pm UTC:

Done!

My snap judgement is that you got it right first time.

Please go ahead, as planned.

Probo

Uclue Researcher 5 stars Answer by Researcher rainbow on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 7:11 pm UTC:

Hi probo,

Here are some treatments that may help her:

"For those with mild to moderate symptoms, many physicians suggest certain
lifestyle changes and activities to reduce or eliminate symptoms. Decreased
use of caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco may provide some relief. Physicians
may suggest that certain individuals take supplements to correct
deficiencies in iron, folate, and magnesium. Taking a hot bath, massaging
the legs, or using a heating pad or ice pack can help relieve symptoms in
some patients."

http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/restless_legs/restless_legs.htm


Self-help tips for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) 
===============================================
During the day 
==============
-Exercise regularly. 
-Wrap your legs in ace bandages, or wear compression stockings or tight
pantyhose. 
-Take iron supplements for low iron levels. Be sure to get tested first. 
-Stand up – Elevate your desk or stand at work if possible. 
-Reduce caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco use, particularly in the evenings.
These substances often increase symptoms. 
-Keep a regular sleep schedule. 

At bedtime
========== 
-Pace, walk, or jog for a few minutes to relieve discomfort. 
-Stretch your legs, do knee bends, or rotate your ankles. 
-Massage your legs. 
-Relax with meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. 
-Apply heat or cold. Take a bath or soak your feet in hot water, briefly
use a heating pad or cold compresses, or apply a hot water bottle. 
-Lie on your side with a pillow between your knees to initiate sleep. 
-Get up – Fighting the urge to move might make the feelings worse.  
 
http://www.helpguide.org/life/restless_leg_syndrome_rls.htm


The information at the following site may also help:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/restless-legs-syndrome/DS00191/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs


I hope this is helpful. And best of luck to her!

Best regards,
Rainbow

Uclue Researcher Comment by Researcher Roger Browne (eiffel) on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 7:26 pm UTC:

This document suggests that RLS is "almost never reported in the standing
position", being generally noticed while lying down or sitting, and usually
in the afternoon or at night rather than in the morning:

"Characterizing features of restless legs syndrome"
Knowles et al - Sleep Research 1997; 26:394
http://www.websciences.org/cftemplate/NAPS/archives/indiv.cfm?ID=19979135

5 stars Accepted and rated by probo on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 8:32 pm UTC:

Very many thanks, Rainbow and Roger B (Eiffel) for your Answer and Comment
respectively.

One thing that has become abundantly clear is that I don't know anywhere
near as much as I should about the lady's symptoms.

However, if and when the opportunity arises, I shall explore this further
with her.

As you will appreciate, I don't want to appear to be prying but I really
would like to help her.

Seasons Greetings to you both and everyone else who tunes in.

Probo

Uclue Researcher Comment by Researcher rainbow on Wed 23 Dec 2009 - 8:58 pm UTC:

Probo, thank you very much for the tip. Happy Holidays to you and your
loved ones. 

Best wishes,
Rainbow

Comment by probo on Mon 28 Dec 2009 - 3:36 pm UTC:

I saw the lady in question today and we had a chat.

Evidently, her condition occurred after a fall while running up some
stairs.

Only one of her legs is affected and it is related to a problem in her
back.

She has 'tried everything' without success.

Thanks again for your research which gave me the confidence to discuss
matters with her.

Probo

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