Updated:
by
Omonuwa Adah, MD, BSN
Medically reviewed by Omonuwa Adah, MD, BSN
If you experience an overwhelming urge to move your legs at night, especially when resting or trying to fall asleep, you may be wondering whether something more than simple restlessness is causing the problem. These symptoms are commonly associated with Willis-Ekbom disease, also known as restless legs syndrome (RLS).
RLS is a neurological condition characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and a strong urge to move them. Although the condition is not life-threatening, it can significantly disrupt sleep and affect overall quality of life. For some patients, symptoms resembling RLS may overlap with circulation problems, such as chronic venous insufficiency.
In this blog, Dr. Omonuwa Adah, lead vein physician at CVR’s Hamilton, New Jersey, vein clinic, explains what Willis-Ekbom disease is, its symptoms and potential causes, and how it relates to overall vein health.
If you’re experiencing persistent leg discomfort or nighttime restlessness, scheduling a consultation with the board-certified specialists at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) can help determine whether an underlying vein condition may be contributing to your symptoms. A comprehensive evaluation provides clarity and guides appropriate treatment.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE
Willis-Ekbom disease, commonly called RLS, is named after two physicians who helped define it.
In the 17th century, English physician Thomas Willis described patients with nighttime leg discomfort relieved by movement. Published in 1672, his observations are among the earliest recorded descriptions of what we now recognize as restless legs syndrome, according to the National Library of Medicine.
In the 20th century, Swedish neurologist Karl-Axel Ekbom conducted detailed clinical studies that clearly defined the condition and popularized the term “restless legs.”
The name “Willis–Ekbom disease” honors both contributors, although “restless legs syndrome” remains the more commonly used term.
RLS is defined by four essential features:
Patients often describe sensations as tingling, crawling, pulling, throbbing, or aching deep within the legs. Symptoms may affect one or both legs and can occasionally involve the arms.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, approximately seven to 10 percent of people in the United States experience restless legs syndrome, with prevalence increasing as people age.
Many patients experience disrupted sleep because symptoms intensify at night. Over time, poor sleep may contribute to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.
The exact cause of RLS isn’t fully understood, but several factors are associated with its development:
However, another factor that deserves attention is venous health.
Chronic venous insufficiency occurs when the veins in the legs have difficulty returning blood efficiently to the heart. This can lead to:
See the similarities? As we’ve discussed, many of these symptoms may coexist with RLS. In some individuals, poor circulation contributes to nighttime leg discomfort resembling the condition.
It’s important to note that vein disease doesn’t cause all cases of RLS, but research suggests that treating underlying circulation problems in appropriate patients may reduce symptoms overlapping with restless legs.
This is why a thorough evaluation considering both neurological and vascular factors is helpful when symptoms persist.
If signs of vein disease are present, a diagnostic ultrasound can assess vein function and blood flow. At CVR, our board-certified specialists use noninvasive imaging to determine whether underlying circulation issues may be contributing to leg discomfort.
When vein disease is identified, treatment options may include:
These minimally invasive treatments are performed in an outpatient setting and are designed to improve circulation and relieve vein-related symptoms. Boosting blood flow may lead to meaningful symptom improvement in patients with leg discomfort linked to venous insufficiency.
Whether symptoms stem from neurological causes, vascular factors, or both, certain lifestyle measures may provide relief:
While these strategies and restless leg home remedies may temporarily reduce discomfort, ongoing or worsening symptoms warrant medical evaluation.
You should consider a professional vein evaluation if:
Remember: Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment planning since symptoms can overlap between neurological and vascular conditions.
Restless legs can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with sleep and daily comfort. Understanding the potential causes of your symptoms is the first step toward relief.
CVR’s board-certified physicians provide comprehensive vein evaluations to determine whether circulation issues may be contributing to your leg discomfort. If problems with blood flow are identified, individualized treatment options are available to help improve comfort and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing persistent leg pain at night or symptoms consistent with RLS, schedule a consultation with CVR to receive a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan. Your journey to better sleep starts here.
📞 Call Center for Vein Restoration at 240-249-8250
📅 Or book online HERE
Q: Can restless legs syndrome come and go?
A: Yes. Some people experience intermittent symptoms that flare during stress, illness, or hormonal changes, while others have more consistent patterns.
Q: Does sitting for long periods make symptoms worse?
A: Extended sitting, such as during travel or desk work, can trigger or intensify symptoms because inactivity is a key feature of the condition.
Q: Is restless legs syndrome dangerous?
A: While it isn’t typically life-threatening, untreated symptoms can significantly affect sleep, mood, and overall well-being. Seeking evaluation can help identify manageable causes and improve comfort.
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