Restless legs syndrome (RLS)is aneurological disorderthat causes people to feel strong urges to shake their legs.

Although there is no cure for RLS, exercise can be a viable option to reduce symptoms.

That said, engaging in physical activity that is overly strenuous can negatively affect the joints.

Woman doing yoga at home

Kseniya Ovchinnikova / Getty Images

It’s important to stick to moderate exercise that doesn’t stress the joints.

Kseniya Ovchinnikova / Getty Images

Walking

Walking has been shown to improve the sensations felt in RLS.

Typically, these benefits only last as long as the walk.

Katrina Carter, PT

That said, the more a person walks, the more relief they will get.

If you like it, it will be easier to keep up with.

you could be active, but also have some fun.

This, in turn, can help improve symptoms by keeping stress at bay and improving sleep.

Cycling

Cycling is another exercise that utilizes the legs.

It can help to reduce RLS symptoms because it is a good form of cardiovascular exercise.

Any form of cardio is effective in reducing symptoms.

How Often Should You Exercise With RLS?

Then:

Repeat this two to four times and repeat for the other leg.

Avoid Overstretching

Pushing yourself but not too hard when performing these exercises is essential.

You should stop when you begin to feel a good stretch in the muscle.

If you go too far and feel any pain, especially sharp pain, stop immediately.

Overstretching can lead to injury.

How Much Time Should You Exercise per Day?

you’ve got the option to exercise as much or as little as your body will allow.

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doi:10.5812/asjsm.31001

Multiple Sclerosis Australia.Developing your strategy for restless legs.

Saint Luke’s.Quadriceps stretch (flexibility).

Kaiser Permenante.How to do the hip flexor stretch.

HelpGuide.org.Restless leg syndrome: Symptoms, causes, and treatments.

Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation.Lifestyle.