Mark Halsey is a licensed therapist, founder, and chief editor of Clean Break Recovery. With over a decade of addiction treatment experience, Mark deeply understands...Read more
For those who are dealing with restless legs due to opiate withdrawal, there is hope. Restless legs can be one of the most difficult and uncomfortable symptoms of opiate withdrawal, but there are a number of strategies and treatments that can help. In this article, we’ll discuss what restless legs are, the causes of opiate withdrawal-related restless legs, and treatments and tips that can help you find relief.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) during opiate withdrawal can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications. Proper sleep hygiene and regular exercise can help minimize RLS symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can help reduce pain and discomfort. Prescription medications, such as gabapentin, pramipexole, and ropinirole, may also be prescribed to treat RLS symptoms.
Contents
- What Can Help With Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- Self-Care
- Conclusion
- Related Faq
- What is Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- What Causes Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- What Are Some Ways to Help Relieve Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- How Can Massage Help With Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- What Other Alternative Therapies Can Help Relieve Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- What Are Some Tips to Manage Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
- Opiate Withdrawal and Restless Leg Syndrome Remedies
What Can Help With Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
Opiate withdrawal is a difficult process to go through. One of the most common symptoms of opiate withdrawal is restless legs. Restless legs can make it difficult to sleep and can lead to a decrease in quality of life. Fortunately, there are some steps that can be taken to help with restless legs from opiate withdrawal.
The first step to take is to understand the cause of the restless legs. Restless legs are caused by a disruption in the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. This disruption can be caused by the sudden absence of opiates in the body. It can also be caused by a decrease in dopamine levels in the brain.
The next step is to find ways to restore balance to the brain. This can be done through lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activity, reducing stress, and eating a healthy diet. Additionally, certain supplements can be taken to help restore balance to the brain. Some of these supplements include 5-HTP, GABA, and L-tyrosine.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be necessary to help with restless legs. Antidepressants such as amitriptyline or trazodone can be prescribed to help with the symptoms of restless legs. Additionally, drugs such as gabapentin or pregabalin can be used to help restore balance to the brain. It is important to discuss any medications with a doctor before taking them.
Alternative Therapies
In addition to medications and lifestyle changes, there are also alternative therapies that can be used to help with restless legs. Acupuncture and massage therapy can be used to help relax the muscles and reduce the symptoms of restless legs. Additionally, certain herbs such as valerian root and passionflower can be taken to help reduce the symptoms of restless legs.
Self-Care
Self-care is an important part of dealing with restless legs from opiate withdrawal. It is important to get enough sleep and to practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. It is also important to stay hydrated and to avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Exercise
Regular exercise can be beneficial for those dealing with restless legs from opiate withdrawal. Exercise can help to reduce stress and improve overall health. Additionally, exercise can help to increase dopamine levels in the brain which can help to reduce the symptoms of restless legs.
Hot/Cold Therapy
Hot and cold therapy can be used to help reduce the symptoms of restless legs. Applying a heating pad or taking a hot bath can help to relax the muscles and reduce the symptoms of restless legs. Additionally, taking an ice bath or applying an ice pack can help to reduce the symptoms of restless legs.
Conclusion
Restless legs from opiate withdrawal can be difficult to deal with. Fortunately, there are some steps that can be taken to help with the symptoms of restless legs. These steps include understanding the cause of the restless legs, taking medication, trying alternative therapies, practicing self-care, exercising, and using hot/cold therapy. It is important to discuss any medications or therapies with a doctor before trying them.
Related Faq
What is Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
Restless legs from opiate withdrawal is a common symptom of opiate withdrawal. It is characterized by an intense, uncomfortable sensation in the legs that is relieved by movement. People who experience this symptom may feel an urge to constantly move their legs in order to alleviate the sensation. In some cases, the sensation can be so severe that it can interrupt sleep.
What Causes Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
Restless legs from opiate withdrawal is caused by the body’s reaction to the sudden absence of opiates. The body is used to having opiates present and when they are suddenly removed, the body responds in an effort to maintain balance by releasing certain neurotransmitters and hormones. The result is an overstimulated nervous system and the uncomfortable sensation in the legs.
What Are Some Ways to Help Relieve Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
There are several things that can help ease the uncomfortable symptoms of restless legs from opiate withdrawal. These include taking regular hot baths or showers, stretching regularly, and exercising. Additionally, drinking plenty of fluids and getting enough rest can help to reduce the severity of the symptoms. Taking natural supplements such as magnesium and melatonin can also provide relief.
How Can Massage Help With Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
Massage has been found to be helpful in relieving the uncomfortable symptom of restless legs from opiate withdrawal. Massage helps to relax and loosen the muscles, which can reduce the intensity of the sensation and provide relief. Massage can be done at home or at a massage therapy center.
What Other Alternative Therapies Can Help Relieve Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
There are several alternative therapies that have been found to be effective in relieving restless legs from opiate withdrawal. Acupuncture and yoga can both be used to help relax the body and reduce the intensity of the symptom. Additionally, aromatherapy, hypnosis, and meditation can be used to reduce stress and help the body relax.
What Are Some Tips to Manage Restless Legs From Opiate Withdrawal?
In addition to the suggestions mentioned above, there are several other tips that can help manage restless legs from opiate withdrawal. It is important to maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and practice relaxation techniques. It is also helpful to wear compression socks, wear comfortable shoes, and practice deep breathing. Additionally, staying active and engaging in light physical activity can help to reduce the intensity of the symptom.
Opiate Withdrawal and Restless Leg Syndrome Remedies
The key to coping with restless legs from opiate withdrawal is to take care of yourself. Try to get adequate rest and stay hydrated. Exercise regularly and consider taking a supplement like magnesium to help reduce symptoms. Talk to your doctor about medications or other treatments that may help relieve your symptoms. With the right approach, you can find relief from restless legs and be on your way to a successful recovery from opiate withdrawal.
Mark Halsey is a licensed therapist, founder, and chief editor of Clean Break Recovery. With over a decade of addiction treatment experience, Mark deeply understands the complex needs of those struggling with addiction and utilizes a comprehensive and holistic approach to address them. He is well-versed in traditional and innovative therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions.
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