Restless Legs Syndrome
Treating Restless Legs Syndrome with Medical Marijuana
What is Restless Legs Syndrome?
Restless Legs Syndrome is a neurological disorder which leads to patients having a feeling of discomfort in their legs, leading to an often irresistible urge to move the legs. Moving the legs causes the discomfort to briefly disappear, but will surely return. Women are more commonly impacted by RLS than men, but it can happen to anyone. RLS is most common during middle-age and typically, the condition deteriorates as time goes on.
Patients who suffer from RLS experience significant trouble sleeping, leading to a number of other issues, such as trouble concentrating or performing at work or in school. In fact, a recent study from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke found that RLS can actually lead to an, on average, 20% decrease in productivity simply from sleep disruption.
Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome
Symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome can include, but are not limited to:
- Strong urge to move legs
- Discomfort and strange sensations in the legs
- Leg aches
- Leg itching
Restless Legs Syndrome and Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana has proven to provide some comfort and relief for patients suffering from RLS. Scientific research on the treatment of RLS through medical cannabis is limited, but all signs show significant improvement through the use of medica marijuana. In fact, there was a study conducted in 2017 in which 6 patients with severe RLS reported no relief from traditional medications and treatments. These patients then tested medical cannabis and all 6 reported total remission of the RLS symptoms.
Side Effects of Cannabis for Restless Legs Syndrome
Side effects of marijuana use can include changes in:
- Sleep
- Fatigue
- Memory
- Appetite
- Mood
- Reaction Time
- Paranoia
Medical Marijuana Doctor Near Me
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with Restless Legs Syndrome in Florida and are interested in how medical marijuana may be able to help you, take our qualification survey and schedule an appointment today!
