Medically reviewed by Mark Featherston, MD, DABVLM, on October 4, 2025
Living through the COVID-19 pandemic has changed almost every part of daily life, including our health in surprising ways. For many people recovering from the virus or managing symptoms of long COVID, restless legs have become a new and frustrating problem. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs, accompanied by an overwhelming urge to move them. These symptoms often get worse at night, leading to poor sleep and a lower quality of life.
At Center for Vein Restoration (CVR), we see firsthand how circulation problems and neurological changes can cause restless legs. More and more patients are asking how their symptoms might be linked to COVID, and the answer is complicated. In this blog, Mark Featherston, MD, DABVLM, lead vein physician at CVR in Greensboro (New Garden Rd.), NC, breaks down the connection between COVID-19 and RLS, as well as treatments that can provide lasting comfort, giving you the restful sleep you deserve.
👉 If you’ve been struggling with restless legs since having COVID-19, schedule a consultation with CVR today. Our team can help evaluate your circulation, identify underlying causes, and create a personalized treatment plan. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click below to book a consultation at one of our 120+ vein clinics nationwide.
✅ To schedule a consultation with Dr. Mark Featherston at CVR in Greensboro (New Garden Rd.), NC, 👉CLICK HERE
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Researchers have noticed that restless legs have become more common since the pandemic began. According to a study published in Frontiers in Neurology, RLS affected only about 4 to 6 percent of people before the pandemic, but during COVID-19, that number jumped to around 16 percent. The same study found that women with long COVID were especially affected: RLS rates nearly tripled, rising from about 6 percent before infection to nearly 15 percent afterward; women with long COVID were also more likely to develop RLS than women who never had the virus.
This may be because COVID-19 affects the nervous system and disrupts sleep. Many patients who experience long COVID report ongoing fatigue, brain fog, and insomnia, all of which can worsen RLS symptoms. Stress and changes to daily routines during lockdowns may have also triggered symptoms.
Another note: According to research from the National RLS Opioid Registry at Massachusetts General Hospital, COVID-19 worsened RLS symptoms in patients who already had the condition. Many reported more frequent discomfort, greater trouble falling asleep, and lower daytime energy during the pandemic.
What explains the biological link between COVID-19 and RLS? Scientists believe there are several connections.
One is inflammation: COVID-19 can trigger a strong immune response, which sometimes affects the brain and nervous system. This may interfere with how the body processes signals that control leg movement. Inflammation can make it harder for the body to use iron. Since iron helps nerves and supports dopamine, this may lead to restless leg symptoms. According to the NHS, low iron can reduce dopamine in the brain, which is linked to RLS.
Lifestyle changes during illness or recovery matter, too. Less physical activity, more time spent sitting or lying down, and irregular sleep patterns can trigger RLS flare-ups. Patients with vein disease often notice the same thing, since poor circulation in the legs is a common contributor to nighttime discomfort. When circulation slows down, the legs can feel heavy or achy, and these sensations may overlap with or intensify RLS.
There are no treatments made specifically for post-COVID restless legs yet, but researchers are actively studying it. Large initiatives such as the RECOVER program are studying long COVID patients to understand what symptoms last and how to treat them. RLS is one of the neurological and sleep-related conditions being monitored.
While scientists search for targeted therapies, doctors recommend a mix of current best practices for restless legs. These include checking nutrient levels, managing stress and sleep schedules, and encouraging gentle movement throughout the day. For some people, treating underlying vein problems can dramatically reduce restless legs symptoms; for example, a study in the National Library of Medicine found that endovenous laser ablation with foam sclerotherapy led to an average 80 percent improvement in symptom severity, with nearly 90 percent of patients experiencing substantial relief.
At CVR, we evaluate each patient carefully. Since vein disease is a major contributor to restless legs, we may recommend minimally invasive treatments that restore circulation and help relieve leg heaviness, cramping, and nighttime discomfort. Many patients notice not only healthier legs but also a reduced urge to move their legs at night, thanks to improved circulation through professional vein treatment.
While research continues, there are several proven steps you can take right now to help ease restless legs, largely surrounding sleep and circulatory wellness:
The key is to stay proactive and not to ignore your symptoms! If restless legs are interfering with your sleep or daily life, it’s critical to seek professional care. Many patients feel frustrated when their symptoms are brushed off as minor, but addressing them can dramatically improve both sleep and overall well-being.
RLS is challenging under any circumstances, but COVID-19 has made it an even more common issue for patients recovering from the virus. The good news is that there are steps you can take to improve your leg health and sleep quality. Many patients can find meaningful relief by learning about the connection between COVID and restless legs, checking for circulation issues, and making targeted lifestyle changes.
At CVR, we combine the latest research with compassionate care to help patients restore comfort and confidence in their legs. Our vein doctors are dedicated to finding the root cause of your symptoms and creating a treatment plan that fits your needs.
👉 Whether your restless legs are linked to circulation, nutrient levels, or recovery from COVID, the CVR team is here to support your journey back to better health. Schedule a consultation with CVR today and take the first step toward healthier legs and better sleep. Call our Patient Services Representatives at 240-965-3915 or click below to book online at a vein clinic near you.
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