General Health : Restless Leg Syndrome
People with restless legs syndrome have an almost irresistible urge to move their legs during rest, most often at night. The cause of this syndrome is not known, but experts believe that obesity might play a role. Researchers learned that as a person’s body mass index increased, so did their risk for restless legs. Being obese raised the risk by about 45 percent compared with having a normal, healthy weight. A larger waist size has also been linked with higher risk. To decrease your risk for restless legs syndrome, try to exercise at least 30 minutes a day and lower your calorie intake by 500 to 1000 calories a day to start your weight loss.
For more information on St. John’s events or to find a physician, visit stj.com or call Referral One at 625.2000. And, to learn more about the integrated services and physicians available through the Sisters of Mercy Health System, log on to mercy.net.
