Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition that can cause an irresistible urge to move your legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. Now, here’s an interesting twist: did you know that auto accidents can sometimes be linked to RLS? That’s right! In this article, we’re going to dive into the world of Restless Leg Syndrome resulting from an auto accident. We’ll explore the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition. So, if you or someone you know has recently been in an auto accident and is experiencing those restless leg symptoms, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with all the information you need to better understand and address this issue.
What Causes RLS After Auto Accident
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) can be triggered or exacerbated by auto accidents due to the potential impact on the nervous system. The trauma sustained in an auto accident can affect the spinal cord, nerves, and other structures involved in the regulation of movement and sensation. This disruption can lead to an imbalance in neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which are crucial for normal leg movement and sensory processing. The resulting dysfunction in the nervous system can contribute to the development or worsening of RLS symptoms.
Additionally, the physical and emotional stress experienced after an auto accident may also play a role in triggering RLS. Understanding the connection between auto accidents and RLS can help healthcare professionals diagnose and treat the condition more effectively, promoting better recovery and quality of life for individuals affected by this syndrome.
Treatment For RLS
No natural or over-the-counter (OTC) medications consistently improve RLS. OTC sleeping medicines such as Benadryl (an antihistamine) and melatonin may actually worsen symptoms. Other substances that may worsen RLS include antidepressants (especially mirtazapine), alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine which are therefore best avoided. Some patients report that calcium and magnesium help them, but when these were examined scientifically they did not show any benefit. OTC iron supplements may help some people, however, iron pills only mildly increase iron in the body (although absorption can be enhanced by co-administration of vitamin C). Less than one percent of the pill is actually absorbed from the stomach. Because of potential side effects, patients should always check with their physicians before taking any OTC medications.
By far, the most consistently effective treatments for RLS are prescription medications. No medication has been specifically developed for RLS, but fortunately, medications developed for other conditions often help RLS symptoms. Your Brooks Clinic physician or physician assistant can help you understand medications that may help you get a better night’s rest.
Erin Ungerecht PA-C, a physician assistant at The Brooks Clinic says that a restful night is one of the main components to healing properly after an accident. She says “patients often have so much stress after an accident that they are unable to get the rest they need to heal. Restlessness is compounded when patients have a syndrome like restless leg, a traumatic brain injury, or even unrelenting pain. That’s why we work so closely with our patients to make sure we’re helping them get adequate rest, especially in the early days after treatment.”
If you’ve experienced an accident and need help getting the rest you need to heal properly, make a call to The Brooks clinic location nearest you. Doctors are always willing to see walk-in patients. Patients benefit from immediate care!
Conclusion Regarding Restless Leg Syndrome
People experience pain in all kinds of ways, and even non-pain stress can occur in the body after an accident. It’s helpful to know that your Brooks Clinic doctor has experience treating a wide range of complications after an accident. You should not experience a loss of restfulness due to restless leg syndrome – but if you do, we need to treat that just like any other accident symptom. Talk with your doctor about ways to make your nighttime sleep more restful! Let the healing begin!
