Dr. Mom's Home Banner

VisitorCountersince 1998


Dear Dr. Mom,
Sometimes at night, my legs feel all jumpy, like I have to move them. What can I do?

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You have what is known as restless leg syndrome. Nobody knows the cause. Your general practioner will offer you a number of medications like clonazepam, propanolol, or anti-Parkinsons drugs like bromocriptine and Sinemet. Here are some nonpharmeuceutical approaches. Different things work for different people.

  • Stretching exercises
  • Calcium, magnesium complex before bed.
  • Reducing caffeine intake. This includes soft drinks, tea and chocolate.
  • The amino acid tyrosine or tryptophan before bed.
  • Quinine
  • Vitamin E
  • Hypnoimagery
  • Relaxing music
  • folic acid in doses in the 5-10 mg range
  • acupuncture
  • Vitamin B6 200 mg daily
  • Check out this url to read for yourself.


    • NOTE: People who swing their legs constantly during the daytime may respond to a B-complex. I think it was the B-6 they specifically needed, but I don't remember.


    Come home to Doctor Mom Home To Dr. Mom
    Paging Dr. Mom Mail to Dr. Mom

    Updated Sunday, July 21, 2002