What do restless legs mean?
Restless legs, also known as Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), are experienced when you regularly have the urge to move your legs, for example after sitting for a long time, before going to sleep or while sleeping. Although the feeling is very unpleasant, it is not worrying. Restless legs are often hereditary and can be caused by factors such as little exercise, obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption. However, this does not always have to be the case.
What causes restless legs?
Not much is known yet about restless legs. For smokers and regular drinkers, the advice is of course obvious. In any case, regular exercise is recommended, because it stimulates the calf muscle pumping effect. Medicines are often used to reduce the symptoms of restless legs; please contact your doctor for this.
In addition, compression socks can make a useful contribution to reducing these complaints. The Herzog Support Compression Socks are most suitable for this. These socks have a slightly lower compression than the Herzog PRO socks, which means that you can also wear them while sleeping without the compression being too strong.
What can you do for restless legs?
What helps varies per person and depends partly on the cause and severity of your symptoms. Regular exercise during the day, fixed sleep times, and less caffeine and alcohol can help. Intensive exercise just before bedtime is not recommended. During a period of restlessness, walking, gentle stretching, massage, or a warm bath can provide temporary relief.
For persistent or severe symptoms, a doctor can investigate whether there is an underlying cause, such as an iron deficiency. If necessary, medical treatment or medication can be discussed. Use iron supplements or medication only on the advice of a doctor.
What can you expect from compression stockings?
RLS is primarily a neurological disorder. Compression stockings therefore do not treat the cause of RLS and were not developed for this purpose. It is not possible to predict in advance whether you will find compression comfortable.
However, we hear from some users that their legs feel calmer or more comfortable when wearing compression stockings. This is especially true if, in addition to restless legs, they also have complaints consistent with reduced venous circulation, such as heavy or tired legs, varicose veins, or slight fluid retention.
For these venous complaints, graduated compression supports the return flow of blood from the legs. This can contribute to a less heavy or tired feeling. This effect is separate from the neurological cause of RLS.
Wear compression stockings according to the instructions for use. Do you want to wear the stockings at night or do you have a medical condition? Consult a doctor or medical expert first.
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