Restless legs and circulation: what is the relationship?

Restless legs and circulation: what is the relationship?
  • Herzog Medical

Restless legs can be incredibly annoying. Especially in the evening or when you've been sitting still for a long time, an irresistible urge to move your legs arises. Many people wonder if poor circulation is the cause of restless legs. While restless legs and circulation are not the same, there is indeed a relationship between the two.

In this article, we explain what restless legs are, how blood circulation can play a role, and what you can do yourself to alleviate your symptoms.

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What are restless legs?

Restless legs, also known as Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), is a neurological disorder in which you experience an unpleasant sensation in your legs. This sensation is often accompanied by a strong urge to move your legs.

Common symptoms include:

  • Itchy legs
  • Tingling
  • A pulling or burning sensation
  • Restlessness in the calves or thighs
  • Difficulty sitting still or sleeping

Symptoms usually arise during periods of rest, such as in the evening on the couch or in bed.

Is poor circulation the cause?

Reduced circulation is often cited as a cause of restless legs. In reality, it's a bit more nuanced.

Restless Legs Syndrome is primarily associated with disturbances in the nervous system and dopamine balance in the brain. However, circulatory problems can worsen symptoms or cause similar symptoms.

When blood is returned less efficiently from the legs to the heart, this can lead to:

  • Heavy legs
  • Tired legs
  • A tense feeling in the calves
  • Tingling
  • Restless legs during rest

These symptoms are very similar to those of restless legs and can reinforce each other.

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Why does blood circulation play a role?

Your calf muscles function as a natural pump that helps return blood from the legs towards the heart. During walking, cycling, or running, this muscle pump is actively supported.

When you sit or stand for extended periods, this pump works less efficiently. This can cause blood to temporarily accumulate in the lower legs, which can lead to a heavy, tired, or restless feeling.

Especially people who:

may notice that their legs feel more restless at the end of the day.

Can compression stockings help with restless legs?

Compression stockings do not resolve the neurological cause of Restless Legs Syndrome. However, they can help when reduced venous return or heavy legs play a role in the symptoms.

Herzog compression stockingsprovide controlled pressure around the ankle and lower leg. This supports blood circulation, allowing blood to flow more easily back towards the heart.

Many users experience:

  • Less heavy legs
  • Less leg fatigue
  • Less fluid retention
  • More comfort during prolonged sitting or standing

People who suffer from heavy or tired legs in addition to restless legs often notice a difference.

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When are compression stockings useful?

Compression stockings may be worth considering if you:

  • Experience restless legs, especially in the evening
  • Sit or stand a lot during the day
  • Frequently experience heavy legs
  • Often travel by car or plane
  • Suffer from fluid retention in your legs in addition to restless legs

A well-fitting compression stocking is essential for this. Too little pressure provides insufficient support, while an incorrect size can feel uncomfortable.

What else can you do for restless legs?

In addition to supporting blood circulation, the following measures can help:

  • Getting enough daily exercise
  • Regularly walking
  • Avoiding prolonged sitting
  • Performing stretching exercises
  • Limiting caffeine and alcohol in the evening
  • Ensuring sufficient sleep

If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to contact a general practitioner. Restless legs can sometimes be related to underlying factors such as iron deficiency, pregnancyor certain medical conditions.

Conclusion

Restless legs are usually not directly caused by poor circulation, but blood circulation can influence the severity of the symptoms. Reduced venous return can lead to heavy, tired, or restless legs, which intensifies the symptoms.

Compression stockings can support blood circulation and contribute to greater comfort, especially when heavy or tired legs are an issue. Although compression is not a treatment for the neurological cause of Restless Legs Syndrome, many people experience relief from additional symptoms due to improved circulation in the legs.

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