Restless Leg Syndrome
RLS and Chinese Medicine
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is considered a complicated internal disease in Chinese medicine. RLS is not detailed in ancient Chinese medical texts as a specific syndrome, but displays particular attributes that are recognized in Chinese medical theory. The patterns of disharmony described below are separated to help describe this condition; in actuality, restless leg syndrome will have combined patterns of imbalance. Resolving this condition will require many months of combined therapies. For best outcomes using self-care, combine associated Aroma Acu-Sticks® to acu-points, topical remedies, and good lifestyle practices.
Acupressure Points for Restless Leg Syndrome
- Apply the Earth Element Acupressure Stick to Acupressure Point Stomach 36
- Apply the Water Element Acupressure Stick to Acupressure Point Kidney 3
- Apply the Metal Element Acupressure Stick to Acupressure Point Large Intestine 4
- Apply the Wood Element Acupressure Stick to Acupressure Point Liver 3
- Apply the Moxa Acupressure Stick to Acupressure Point Ren 6
RLS Causes and Symptoms of Patterns of Imbalance in Chinese Medicine
Blood and Qi Deficiency Leading to RLS
One of the underlying imbalances that will likely begin to develop before RLS symptoms start to appear is Blood and Qi Deficiency. It is not unusual to develop these deficiencies as one ages if the proper lifestyle habits including a proper diet and regular exercise are not maintained. Iron deficiency has been associated with RLS which would be a clear indication of Blood Deficiency.
Blood Stagnation and RLS
In Chinese medicine, the tingling and stabbing sensations that come with Restless Leg Syndrome indicate Blood Stagnation. Additionally, Blood is very grounding and the vacuum created by Blood Deficiency allows for Internal Wind to occupy the space created by Blood vacuity. Additionally, Blood Deficiency becomes much more prevalent with aging, and RLS tends to begin affecting people after 50. Blood Deficiency can give rise to Blood Stagnation and would account for the strange sensations experienced with RLS.
Heart Imbalances and RLS
Heart Blood also helps to ground the mind so that we can sleep soundly at night. Because RLS tends to occur at night and disturbs sleep, Heart Blood Deficiency is often a complication. Additionally, the Heart is closely associated with emotional imbalances in Chinese medicine and chronic anxiety has been linked to RLS.
Kidney Yin Deficiency and RLS
Kidney Deficiency is a prevalent underlying condition with restless leg syndrome. The Kidney energetic organ system in TCM is closely related to the spine, brain, and nervous system, and RLS has been associated with a brain metabolism defect according to western medicine. Additionally, Kidney Essence is depleted as we age, and RLS is associated with aging. Essence is also related to familial conditions, and there appears to be a genetic link to RLS. The Kidneys are the source of all Yin of the body, and Yin Deficiency can cause Deficient Heat and Internal Wind. Also, conditions associated with Yin Deficiency are often more reactive during the night time.
Liver Imbalances Causing Internal Wind and RLS
In Chinese medicine, involuntary tics and spasms are attributed to "Internal Wind". In health, the Liver is rich with Blood, and the Liver is able to circulate Blood and Qi freely. If the Liver is out of balance or undernourished, Qi stops circulating and Blood becomes deficient. Because Blood is cooling in nature, the Liver naturally begins to heat up with Blood Deficiency and Liver Qi Stagnation. If you have ever studied a bonfire, you would notice that a wind tunnel develops over the flames as the heat rises; this is the concept in Chinese medicine as heat rises and creates a chaotic wind. Our body will react to internal heat just as a bonfire reacts to heat, by creating a chaotic wind. In the body, pathogenic Wind is seen as spastic movements, spasms, and chaotic jerking of limbs.
Wei Qi Deficiency and RLS
In Chinese medicine, the Wei Qi is likened to the immune system; in actuality, it is much more divers in its functions that just immune responses. The Wei Qi circulates on the surface of the body during the day protecting us from external pathogens, but returns to the internal body and organs during the night. If the Wei Qi is compromised, it may not circulate correctly back internally at night and can be a contributing factor to RLS. Additionally, the Wei Qi protects the body from the invasion of External Wind which can contribute to RLS.
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This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.