Leg weakness and restless leg syndrome

Dear Ask The Doctor: Can restless leg syndrome cause weakness in the legs?

Dear Nikki: Restless leg syndrome is characterised by an urgent urge to keep moving the legs inorder to stop uncomfortable sensations in the legs like tingling , creeping etc. The cause of this condition is mostly unknown but it seems to occur more frequently in patients with peripheral neuropathy, parkinsons, due to other meds, etc.It usually occurs in sitting or sleeping position and more often at night. While it does not directly cause weakness in the legs, the legs may become fatigued due to continuos movement even at rest. I would advice you to try muscle strengthening exercises and warm compress which may help. However if the weakness continues and is accompanied by numbness or tingling it may indicate some other pathology and condition like a herniated lumbar disc and thus you need to contact your health care provider for further management and tests if needed.