Restless Legs and Leg Pain in Austin, TX

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a disorder of the nervous system that causes an uncontrollable urge to move your legs. The condition is often associated with leg pain and the feeling of pins and needles or uncontrollable itching within the legs. RLS and leg pain is often worse at night when the body is at rest. The severity of the condition can range from mild to downright intolerable with symptoms that come and go, worsening in the evening and at night. Some patients experience severe sleep disruption, which can drastically affect their overall quality of life. Board-certified vascular surgeon Dr. Christopher Brennig understands the discomfort that accompanies RLS and invites you to contact us at Austin Vein Institute in Austin, TX to seek the much-needed relief you need.

Approximately half of all individuals with RLS and leg pain have a family member with the condition. Outside of hereditary influence, the direct cause of RLS is unknown at this time. However, many factors may lead to the development or worsening of the condition. These triggers include certain medications, pregnancy, and heavy alcohol consumption. Other factors that may lead to RLS include chronic diseases, like Parkinson's disease, kidney failure, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy. Patients who should schedule a consultation, and often find the most relief from professional treatment at Austin Vein Institute, are those who are still experiencing the symptoms of RLS after eliminating potential triggers.

The primary target for RLS treatment is relief of the associated symptoms. Individuals with mild to moderate RLS may see relief from simple lifestyle changes, such as exercise, establishing a better sleep routine, and reducing their use of caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco. Other nondrug-related options include hot baths, leg massages, and specialty heating pads. For more severe cases, Dr. Brennig may recommend FDA-approved medications, such as neurotransmitters, sedatives, and pain relievers so that patients can attain relief from pain and achieve a better night's sleep. The customized treatment plan created for you will depend on a number of factors following a medical evaluation and a discussion about your lifestyle and medical history.

Without treatment, the symptoms of RLS and leg pain may worsen over time. But with proper diagnosis and treatment, some patients may enjoy weeks or months without any symptoms at all. If your leg pain stems from a medical condition, illness, pregnancy, or medication, it may go away as soon as the trigger has gone. Because the underlying cause of the condition is unknown, recovering from RLS and leg pain is not a sure thing. However, receiving long-term relief from symptoms is possible with the help of a board-certified vein specialist, like Dr. Brennig.

If you are one of the millions suffering from the uncomfortable symptoms of RLS and/or leg pain, we want you to know that we are here for you. At our state-of-the-art Austin, TX facility, we are equipped to help you achieve the relief that you deserve after creating a treatment plan that is customized to your needs. Contact Austin Vein Institute today to schedule your consultation and to learn more about the ways we can help you cope with your RLS.