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DiscussionRestless Legs - Any suggestions as seen many doctors and medications
Sleep Health | Last Active: Jul 11 1:32pm | Replies (98)Comment receiving replies
Replies to "Would anyone suggest a massage machine for RLS?"
Hi Sharshy: Using a massager took care of my RLS symptoms for about 8 years. (After that, I needed medication in addition) Initially, I bought a long-handled double header Brookstone massager that needs to be plugged in. (Brookstone is no longer in business but similar products are available---look on Amazon). Since, then I've bought the kind that can be charged and used without a corded plug in. My symptoms are strong so I need a massager that has a strong vibration. Something powerful. About a year ago, I got a thera-gun type massager. When the symptom (for me RLS presents as an awful achy pain) wasn't too severe, after holding the massager on the symptomatic place of my leg (or legs) for a few minutes (5-10, depending), the symptom would dissipate and I could go back to sleep. I also use it elsewhere on my body as my leg stops hurting. For me, muscular tension makes the RLS worse so a swipe on my shoulder etc. contributes to symptoms stopping. The more severe the symptom, the longer I needed to hold it on my leg(s). The Brookstone type massager (a long handle) worked well in terms of hand-grip, but it weighs 4 1/2 pounds, so not that much fun to pick-up and hold on my leg during the night. The Thera-gun massager has the off-button in a place my finger accidentally can touch and turn off, so I've had a learning curve remembering how to hold it in my hand. I turned to massage equipment because, for years, I thought I had this weird muscular problem that strangely only presented during sleep or sleepiness. I had RLS symptoms for 10 or 11 years before it was diagnosed. I've never read anything in Medical Literature suggesting a massager for RLS, but it did work for me (until my symptoms became more severe). Currently, I also have these Niadra bands---developed specifically for RLS by the Noctrix Company. I read about this in Medical Literature, learned the Noctrix Co name and googled them. Then I contacted them. Their device is based on something called TOMAC (tonic motor activation) which I believe acts in a similar fashion to my massager--confusing nerves and allowing symptoms to stop. Unfortunately, the Niadra bands are only available in a few states right now. When I contacted the company, I was told my state wasn't included, but they kept my email and emailed me a year or year and a half later. I don't own my Niadra bands---Medicare "rents" them for me and pays for the conduction pads needed for their use. Go to PubMed and search the term "TOMAC." Many studies say it works. (Click on a study to go to the abstract and read the research's conclusion section, if all the technical language puts you off). The reason Niadra bands aren't available everywhere (now) is because they require an in-person activation and the company doesn't (yet) have personnel trained to do this everywhere. I think the company only received federal approval about 2-3 years ago. It's newly available technology. Not everyone reads Medical Literature, so I want to share what I've learned. When it does become available in other states, it will require a doctor's order (prescription) and possibly medical records justifying the need (because it is expensive!) In terms of picking out a massager---think about weight and hand comfort while holding it. I would say go more expensive (for stronger vibrations) instead of looking for a bargain. I probably got the Thera-gun during a Prime Day sales on Amazon. It was more the $100 and less than $150--on sale. I hope this helps! I never thought I would be giving RLS advice, but the more we all share, the better off we all will be... Best of luck to you!