What causes restless leg syndrome?
Jul 04, 2025
Have you ever felt that strange, itchy-ceawly feeling in your legs when you're trying to relax or fall asleep? Like your legs won't stay still no matter what you do? If that sounds familiar, you might be dealing with restless legs syndromes (RLS)—and you’re definitely not alone.
The good news? You can take some easy steps that will reduce the discomfort. Let's discuss what causes RLS, what it is like, how to manage it, and simple things you can try at home (yes, even while binge-watching your favorite show).
What Exactly Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), RLS “causes unpleasant or uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an irresistible urge to move them. Symptoms commonly occur in the late afternoon or evening hours and are most severe at night when a person is resting” (NINDS, 2023).
People describe the feeling differently:
- Tingling
- Crawling
- Aching
- Itching
- A weird pressure sensation
Moving your legs might give you temporary relief, but it doesn’t fix the issue for good.
What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?
Good question! Sadly, the exact cause of RLS isn’t always clear. But researchers have identified some typical triggers:
1. Low Iron Levels
Too little iron in the brain can disrupt dopamine function—a main actor in muscle control. This is one of the most studied causes of RLS.
2. Chronic Health Conditions
Conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, and neuropathy are commonly associated with RLS symptoms.
3. Pregnancy
Especially during the third trimester, a number of women suffer from RLS. The good news? It normally vanishes after childbirth.
4. Medications
A few antidepressants, antihistamines, and antipsychotic medications can worsen RLS or cause symptoms.
5. Lifestyle
Exercise, smoking, too much caffeine or alcohol, and even stress, can make RLS symptoms worse.
How to Know if It's RLS
You may be experiencing RLS if:
- You have a feeling of needing to move your legs when you sit or lie down
- The pain worsens in the night
- Relief is temporary when you move your legs
- Your sleep is frequently disturbed due to sensations in your legs
If you ticked all those boxes, it's a wise idea to speak with a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Easy Ways to Manage Restless Leg Syndrome at Home
The good news? You don't always need a complicated treatment protocol. Here are some natural, at-home solutions to help minimize RLS symptoms:
✅ Do Gentle Leg Stretches

Simple pre-bed stretches can loosen tight muscles and soothe the nerves.
✅ Take a Warm Bath

A warm bath can enhance circulation and relieve that twitchy sensation in your legs.
✅ Reduce Caffeine

Try skipping coffee or soda afternoons and evenings—caffeine is a known RLS stimulant.
✅ Get Enough Iron

Talk with your doctor about checking your iron levels. Iron supplements (under guidance) might help.
✅ Establish a Bedtime Routine

Go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day. A regular sleep schedule can lower symptoms.
Use an Air Compression Leg Massager

If you haven't tried one, this might be a lifesaver. A Nekteck Air Compression Leg Massager slowly compresses and releases various sections of your legs, simulating a healing massage. This helps:
- Enriches blood flow
- Loosens tight leg muscles
- Alleviates that "restless" feeling
- Winds down before sleep
The best part is that you can use it while watching TV, reading, or before bed. It's non-invasive, drug-free, and extremely relaxing.
Conclusion: You Deserve Peaceful Legs and Better Sleep
RLS can be incredibly frustrating—especially when it interferes with rest. But now that you understand what causes restless leg syndrome, you’ve got a few tools in your toolkit to fight back.
Try a mix of lifestyle changes, soothing routines, and supportive tools like the Nekteck Air Compression Leg Massager to help ease symptoms. A few small changes can make a big difference for your sleep and your sanity.
Ready to treat your legs to the relief they deserve? Discover additional leg care and relaxation aids that are meant to assist you in sleeping better—because you deserve a night of undisturbed, serene sleep.