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Restless legs syndrome (RLS) can be a frustrating and disruptive condition, causing uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them. While there are various treatments available for RLS, many patients still struggle to find relief.
However, recent research has shown that ketamine infusion therapy may be a promising option for RLS treatment. Ketamine, a medication commonly used as an anesthetic, has been found to provide significant relief from RLS symptoms, improving sleep quality and overall quality of life for those who suffer from this condition.
If you are interested in learning more about ketamine for RLS, contact Illuminate in Newport News, VA, and schedule your free consultation today.
Ketamine is believed to help treat restless legs syndrome (RLS) by modulating the way the brain processes pain signals and movement sensations. RLS is thought to be caused by dysfunction in the dopamine pathways of the brain, which can lead to abnormal movement sensations and an urge to move the legs.
Ketamine works by blocking a type of receptor in the brain called the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which plays a role in pain processing and movement sensations. By blocking this receptor, ketamine may help reduce the abnormal sensations and urge to move the legs that are characteristic of RLS.
Additionally, ketamine has been found to have antidepressant effects, which may be beneficial for RLS patients who also suffer from depression or anxiety. Overall, while the exact mechanisms by which ketamine helps treat RLS are not fully understood, it appears to be a promising option for those who have not found relief with other treatments.
During a ketamine treatment for RLS, a patient will typically receive an intravenous (IV) infusion of the medication. The treatment is administered in our office and usually takes about 40 minutes to an hour.
Our patients can relax in a comfortable chair, and a small IV catheter will be inserted into their arm. The ketamine will be administered through the IV at a slow, controlled rate. The patient will be monitored throughout the treatment by the healthcare provider.
Patients may experience some dissociation during the treatment, which means they might feel detached from their surroundings, or they might experience changes in perception, such as feeling as if they are in a dreamlike state or experiencing changes in the way they perceive time, colors, or shapes. These side effects usually subside shortly after the infusion.
After treatment, the patient will be observed for a short period of time by our staff before being allowed to go home. It is advised that patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after the treatment.
The use of ketamine for restless legs syndrome (RLS) has shown several potential benefits for patients. Firstly, ketamine has been found to provide significant relief from RLS symptoms, including the uncomfortable sensations in the legs and the urge to move them. This can improve the quality of life of RLS patients by allowing them to sleep better and reducing disruptions to their daily activities.
Additionally, ketamine has a rapid onset of action, meaning that patients may experience relief from their symptoms soon after starting treatment. Another potential benefit of ketamine is that it has been found to be effective even in patients who have not responded to other treatments for RLS, such as dopamine agonists.
Finally, ketamine has been found to have antidepressant effects, which may be beneficial for RLS patients who also suffer from depression or anxiety. Overall, the use of ketamine for RLS treatment appears to offer a promising option for those who have not found relief with other treatments.
If you or someone you know is struggling with restless legs syndrome (RLS), ketamine infusion therapy may be a viable treatment option to consider. At Illuminate in Newport News, VA, our experienced medical professionals are dedicated to providing safe and effective ketamine infusion therapy for RLS patients.
We understand the impact that RLS can have on your quality of life, and we are committed to helping you find relief from your symptoms. Contact us today to learn more about how ketamine infusion therapy can help you manage your RLS and improve your overall well-being.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them. People with RLS often describe the sensations as crawling, creeping, tingling, burning, or itching. These sensations typically occur when the person is at rest, such as when sitting or lying down, and can be relieved by movement. The urge to move the legs can be so strong that it interferes with sleep and daily activities, leading to fatigue and other related health problems. RLS can affect people of any age, although it is more common in older adults, and it can be a chronic condition that significantly impacts quality of life.
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable urge to move them. The sensations are often described as crawling, creeping, tingling, burning, or itching, and they typically occur when the person is at rest, such as when sitting or lying down. The urge to move the legs can be so strong that it interferes with sleep and daily activities, leading to fatigue and other related health problems. Other common symptoms of RLS include involuntary leg movements during sleep, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating or performing daily tasks. The severity of symptoms can vary widely, with some people experiencing mild discomfort and others experiencing significant disruption to their quality of life. RLS symptoms tend to worsen in the evening or at night, and they may improve temporarily with movement or stretching. Overall, RLS can significantly impact a person’s well-being and quality of life if left untreated.
