[Ruby1812]

Hi, I’ve had restless legs syndrome (RLS) for over 35 yrs. I have not had a full night sleep for years now, and I believe I now have developed insomnia. I fall asleep ok, but only sleep for 1 to 1½ hours, and after that toss and turn most of the night, finding it difficult to go back to sleep . I toss and turn and eventually get up, make a camomile tea, go back to bed and try not to get frustrated, but at times I do…..I don’t look at technology during the evening, don’t watch tv in bed….I have had a very stressful year as my young husband had a stroke a year ago and now has Aphasia, a communication and speech and Language disability, and am his carer.
My question is, has anyone had any positive outcomes for sleep with also having RLS? I understand about sleep efficiency, time spent in bed, in relation to time of actual sleep, but I’m so exhausted in the evening, it’s hard not to fall asleep early in the sofa.
I’m listening to these podcasts and loving them .
With thanks

[Martin Reed]

I think it’s quite possible for RLS to exist alongside insomnia — and since you can recognize at least one behavior that can perpetuate sleep disruption (such as sleeping on the couch) we can see there is an opportunity for you to take some steps to improve your sleep, regardless of the RLS!

Have you looked into cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I)? It might be worth asking your doctor if they think you’d be a good candidate for CBT-I since it can help address the thoughts and behaviors that can perpetuate sleep disruption.

I hope this helps!

—

If you are ready to stop struggling with insomnia you can enroll in the online insomnia coaching course right now! If you would prefer ongoing phone or video coaching calls as part of a powerful three month program that will help you reclaim your life from insomnia, consider applying for the Insomnia Mastery program.

The content of this post is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, disorder, or medical condition. It should never replace any advice given to you by your physician or any other licensed healthcare provider. Insomnia Coach LLC offers coaching services only and does not provide therapy, counseling, medical advice, or medical treatment. All content is provided “as is” and without warranties, either express or implied.

[Victoria Bixler]

Hi Ruby – Not sure if this will be helpful to you, but for years I thought I had RLS (I certainly had the symptoms, and they made it difficult for me to go to sleep). Despite the sleep disruption, I didn’t want to take medication for it. I found out from my physical therapist that tight muscles can mimic RLS, and since I implemented a regular, gentle stretching routine (calf and hamstring stretches) before bed, I no longer have those symptoms. Holding the stretches for 2 minutes each makes them much more effective.

[Author]

Posts