New research published in the Journal of Physiology presents a breakthrough in the treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS).
RLS is a common condition of the nervous system that causes an overwhelming irresistible urge to move the legs. Patients complain of unpleasant symptoms such as tingling, burning and painful cramping sensations in the leg. More than 80% of people with RLS experience their legs jerking or twitching uncontrollably, usually at night.
Until now it was thought that RLS is caused by genetic, metabolic and central nervous system mechanisms. For the first time the researchers show that, in fact, it is not only the central nervous system but also the nerve cells targeting the muscles themselves that are responsible.
This new research indicates that the involuntary leg movements in RLS are caused by increased excitability of the nerve cells that supply the muscles in the leg, which results in an increased number of signals being sent between nerve cells.
Targeting the way messages are sent between nerve cells to reduce the number of messages to normal levels may help prevent the symptoms of RLS occurring. This could be achieved by new drugs that block the ion channels that are essential for the communication between nerve cells.
The research conducted by the University of Gottingen in conjunction with the University of Sydney and Vanderbilt University involved measuring the nerve excitability of motor nerve cells of patients suffering with RLS and healthy subjects.
The next step is to investigate the effect of different medications in patients and the effect on RLS.
Dirk Czesnik, corresponding author of the study, commented on the findings:
‘Patients who suffer from Restless legs syndrome complain of painful symptoms in the legs leading to sleep disturbances. The mechanisms for RLS are still not completely understood. We have shown that also the nerve cells supplying muscles in the leg are responsible and hereby additional drug treatments may be ahead targeting these nerve cells.’
Learn more: Breakthrough in treatment of restless legs syndrome
The Latest on: Restless legs syndrome
- Sleep Talking Is Mostly Harmless; So When Does It Become Concerning?on April 27, 2024 at 12:00 pm
Sleep talking is a common problem While it is mostly harmless in certain cases it can indicate underlying health problems ...
- Iron is important not only for physical health but also for mental health, 5 symptoms are seen due to its deficiencyon April 27, 2024 at 3:49 am
Iron, a vital mineral, plays a crucial role in maintaining not only our physical well-being but also our mental health. Its deficiency can l..|News Track ...
- Understanding Benzodiazepines and How They Workon April 24, 2024 at 7:07 am
Benzodiazepines (also known as benzos) are a class of medications used to treat anxiety disorders, seizures, insomnia, and other health conditions. While effective, they can come with some side ...
- The Science Behind Why You Just Can't Stop Shaking Your Legson April 23, 2024 at 1:53 pm
If you bounce your legs while sitting on a chair or watching TV, you've probably been told by your parents to stop.
- 5 ways a smart mattress can help you sleep better if you suffer from back pain, night sweats or restless legson April 23, 2024 at 9:40 am
Adjustable beds are an effective way to raise the head and neck without the awkward support of multiple pillows. Some smart beds can even respond to snoring during the night, gently angling your head ...
- Harvard Health Publishing And 3 Other Doctors Answer: How Can We Prevent Restless Legs Syndrome?on April 15, 2024 at 2:28 pm
Answered by Dr. Robert H. Shmerling M.D. Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 30 years of experience · USA Restless legs syndrome is a condition that causes a powerful urge to move the ...
- 8 Natural Remedies for Insomnia During Pregnancyon April 15, 2024 at 4:00 am
Pregnant and having trouble sleeping? Insomnia during pregnancy is common, but can be relieved with natural remedies. Try one of these safe ways to get quality zzzs.
- Doctor's warning over 'debilitating' restless legs syndrome that affects 1 in 10 Britson April 13, 2024 at 8:14 am
Dr Xand van Tulleken has spoken out about a 'debilitating but misunderstood' condition that affects one in 10 Brits - warning it should not be ignored as it can indicate more serious health issues ...
- 'Debilitating' restless leg syndrome could be a symptom of something far more seriouson April 13, 2024 at 5:34 am
Dr Xand van Tulleken has warned that a 'debilitating but misunderstood' condition that affects one in 10 Brits should not be ignored as it can be a sign of far more serious health concerns ...
- How to cope with restless legs while travelingon April 11, 2024 at 9:05 am
My decades-long problem with restless legs interrupted what should have been an unparalleled experience. Every time I traveled, I found myself squished into a confined space or restricted with ...
via Bing News
The Latest on: RLS
- Former New York Giants Star Found Dead at 28on April 26, 2024 at 5:01 am
Former New York Giants offensive lineman Korey Cunningham has been found dead in his New Jersey home. He was 28. Local outlet RLS Media said police and emergency services arrived on the scene around 3:30 p.m. Thursday, with the medical examiner removing ...
- Anti-aging human tests begin – and $40 million of funding is behind iton April 24, 2024 at 5:00 pm
California-based biopharmaceutical company Rubedo Life Sciences has announced that thanks to US$40 million in financial backing, it can commence human trials of its drug RLS-1469, designed to target the senescent cells that cause age-related disease.
via Bing News
