Restless legs syndrome is a puzzling condition. Doctors are not sure what exactly causes restless leg syndrome, but it appears to run in families and to be aggravated by stress. It can also be related to nerve damage caused by diabetes or alcoholism. Sometimes people experience restless legs syndrome after becoming iron deficient or experiencing kidney failure.

If you suffer from restless legs syndrome, you may want to try these various remedies:

Take Ibuprofen
This over-the-counter painkiller is also an anti-inflammatory and mild muscle relaxant, so it may help stave off symptoms before they get too intense.

Manage Stress
Look for ways to eliminate stress in your life. Practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, stretching, yoga and long walks. All of these stress-relieving techniques can work to reduce symptoms.

Soak in the Tub
Taking a long, hot bath may relax those twitchy muscles.

Establish a Bedtime Routine
If restless legs syndrome is keeping you up at night, try establishing and maintaining a bedtime routine. Make sure your bedroom is cool, quiet and clutter-free. Take time to stretch, drink a soothing cup of herbal tea or warm milk and to do something relaxing such as reading before you turn off the lights. Try to go to bed and get up at the same time each day. A routine may signal to your body when it’s time to sleep and time to wake.

Exercise
Exercise, but make sure you follow up exercise with stretching or massage. A relaxing bath and stretching session after a moderate exercise stint may provide just the relief you need.

Eliminate Alcohol Ingestion
Many people find alcohol triggers restless legs syndrome. Try to cut back or abstain altogether.

Stop Using Tobacco Products
Nicotine also appears to stimulate restless legs syndrome. Get help quitting the habit; it will enhance your overall health.

Cut Down on Caffeine
If you can, eliminate caffeine from your diet completely. Because restless legs syndrome appears connected to stress and overstimulation, you may want to replace caffeinated teas with calming herbal teas, coffee with decaf coffee and sodas with decaffeinated sodas.