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Questions posted in the
Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Question Title: RLSForum: Neurology Forum
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Re: RLSPosted by ccf Neuro MD on October 09, 1997 at 22:07:28: In Reply to: RLS posted by Sherrill Pratt on October 01, 1997 at 01:48:28:
: I am searching for alternative methods of treating RLS. I am aware of the prescription medications that are being used, and the excercise, elimination of caffeine, hot baths route. I would like to know if such approaches as accupuncture, herbal remedies, enzyme therapy etc. have been tried and/or tested. Thank you. = Hello, Sherrill, Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a rather common disorder that may regularly delay the onset of sleep. Therefore, most of treatment regimen aim at adjusting sleep rhythm and reduce the fragmentation of sleep caused by the movements. Several medications have proven helpful. These include L-dopa/carbidopa, bromocriptine and pergolide, benzodiazepines, and baclofen. Clonazepam, and temazepam are also useful in diminishing the number of movements. As far as the usefulness of alternative medicine in treating RLS, the information is rather sparse. I searched the available database, there are only couple recent publications discussed about non-drug therapy. One study compared the cognitive behavioral therapy with medication and concluded the outcome was quite comparable; and another group specifically studied sclerotherapy in patients with varicose veins in their legs. I was not able to find any publications on using accupuncture or herbal remedies treating RLS. Please be advised that the movement disorders program at the Cleveland Clinic represents one of the biggest such centers in the nation. If traveling to Cleveland is not a problem for you, we will be happy to see you here for a full evaluation. At that time, we can further explore all the options based on your individual clinical presentation. Feel free to call toll free (800)223-2273 ext. 45559 for an appointment. This information is provided for general medical educational purpose only. Please consult your physician for the diagnostic and treatment options of your specific condition.
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