Fibromyalgia And Restless Leg Syndrome
Fibromyalgia and Restless Leg Syndrome are medical conditions that cause physical and mental fatigue, as well as pain, in those affected. They share common symptoms and treatments, yet there are some important differences between the two syndromes that should be noted.
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that is characterized by widespread pain in the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. It is often accompanied by fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and sleep disturbances. Fibromyalgia is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Treatment for fibromyalgia typically includes medication, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy.
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) also known as Willis-Ekbom disease is a neurological disorder characterized by an urge to move legs, usually accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the legs. It has often been described as an aching, crawling, tingling, throbbing, and pulling sensations. People with RLS experience symptoms most often when they are at rest or trying to sleep, making it difficult to get a good night's rest. The exact cause of RLS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an imbalance in the brain's chemical messenger system. Treatment for both RLS and Fibromyalgia may involve a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and physical therapy. Lifestyle changes such as exercise, stress management, and maintaining a healthy diet can help alleviate symptoms. Medications, including pain relievers, anticonvulsants, and muscle relaxers may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Physical therapy and other forms of exercise can also help to improve mobility and reduce pain.
Magnesium supplementation is often suggested for restless legs syndrome (RLS) or period limb movement disorder (PLMD) based on anecdotal evidence that it relieves symptoms and because it is also commonly recommended for leg cramps. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31678660/)
The main difference between fibromyalgia and RLS is that fibromyalgia is associated with generalized pain and fatigue, while RLS is associated with a specific urge to move the legs. Additionally, fibromyalgia is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, whereas RLS is thought to be caused by an imbalance in the brain's chemical messenger system.
Fibromyalgia and Restless Leg Syndrome are both conditions that can cause significant physical and mental fatigue, as well as pain. While they share some common symptoms and treatments, there are important differences between the two syndromes that should be noted. It is important to talk to your doctor if you think you may have either condition, so that you can get the proper diagnosis and treatment. Recent studies have shown that up to 80% of people with fibromyalgia also have symptoms of RLS (Winkelman, John W. "Fibromyalgia and Restless Legs Syndrome." Sleep Medicine Reviews, vol. 11, no. 6, 2007, pp. 483-493. ScienceDirect, doi:10.1016/j.smrv.2007.08.002).
Symptoms
The chief symptom is an urge to move the legs. Common accompanying characteristics of RLS include:
Sensations that begin while resting. The sensation typically begins after you've been lying down or sitting for an extended time, such as in a car, airplane or movie theater.
Relief with movement. The sensation of RLS lessens with movement, such as stretching, jiggling the legs, pacing or walking.
Worsening of symptoms in the evening. Symptoms occur mainly at night.
Nighttime leg twitching. RLS may be associated with another, more common condition called periodic limb movement of sleep, which causes the legs to twitch and kick, possibly throughout the night, while you sleep. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/restless-legs-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20377168
In conclusion, Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and Fibromyalgia are two chronic conditions that can cause significant discomfort and interfere with daily life. RLS is categorized as a sleep disorder with an irresistible urge to move the legs, while Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the soft tissues and muscles of the body. The exact causes of these conditions are not yet fully understood, research suggests that genetic and environmental factors may play a role.
You will need to speak to your doctor to find the best treatment plan for your individual needs and to manage the symptoms of these conditions. It can feel different to everyone so there is no one cure that has been found. I hope through talking it over with a healthcare professional results in positive results. You are not alone in this journey. There’s a whole community behind you.