Lack of sleep due to restless legs? The effect of a weighted blanket on RLS - Marieke shares her experience

Updated on
Slaapgebrek door rusteloze benen? Het effect van een verzwaringsdeken bij RLS - Marieke deelt haar ervaring

The effect of a weighted blanket on restless leg syndrome (RLS)

What is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as restless legs syndrome, is a neurological disorder characterized by a strong, often uncontrollable urge to move the legs. This urge is often accompanied by unpleasant sensations in the legs, such as an itching, tingling, or burning sensation. These symptoms occur especially during rest periods, such as in the evening or at night, which can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep.

RLS can have a major impact on people's sleep quality, and therefore on their daily functioning. Fatigue, concentration problems and even depressive feelings can arise from the chronic sleep problems associated with RLS. The exact cause of RLS is not yet fully understood, but research points to a possible genetic component, an imbalance in the dopamine balance in the brain, and even iron deficiency as possible triggers.

Symptoms and Causes of RLS

The symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome can vary in intensity and frequency. Some people experience RLS only occasionally, while others experience symptoms daily. The most common symptoms include:

  • An uncontrollable urge to move the legs, especially in the evening or at night.
  • A tingling, burning, or pulling sensation in the legs, often relieved by movement.
  • Sleep problems, such as difficulty falling asleep and waking up frequently during the night.
  • Difficulty sitting still for extended periods of time, such as during a long car ride or in a movie theater.

The causes of RLS are diverse and not yet fully understood. Research shows that a disruption of dopamine function in the brain plays an important role in the development of RLS. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in regulating muscle movement. In people with RLS, dopamine function seems to be less stable, especially in the evening hours.

In addition to the imbalance in dopamine, iron deficiency is also mentioned as a possible cause. Iron plays a role in the production of dopamine. Furthermore, there are indications that RLS can be influenced by factors such as pregnancy, chronic diseases (such as kidney failure and diabetes) and certain medications, including antidepressants.

Treatment Options for RLS

There are several ways to treat Restless Leg Syndrome, ranging from medication to natural solutions. Commonly prescribed medications focus on improving dopamine function or increasing iron levels. However, these medications can have side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, and addiction. Because of this, many people turn to non-drug solutions, such as lifestyle changes and using a weighted blanket.

Lifestyle changes such as avoiding caffeine and alcohol, exercising regularly, and establishing a regular sleep schedule can help reduce RLS symptoms. For those who continue to experience RLS, a weighted blanket may be a solution. This blanket provides deep touch pressure (DTP) stimulation, which can help reduce the urge to move.

How does a weighted blanket work?

A weighted blanket is a special blanket that is heavier than a regular blanket due to the addition of materials such as glass beads. This blanket provides deep pressure stimulation (Deep Touch Pressure, DTP), which is similar to the feeling of a hug or gentle pressure on the body. This type of pressure has a calming effect on the nervous system and can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps to bring the body into a state of relaxation.

Scientific research shows that DTP can stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that provides a sense of well-being and relaxation. Serotonin is converted into melatonin in the evening, the hormone that helps you fall asleep. Using a weighted blanket may help people with RLS relax more easily, reducing symptoms and improving sleep quality.

Additionally, the pressure of the weighted blanket can help reduce the oversensitive nerve impulses in the legs that often trigger the urge to move the legs. For people with RLS, this can mean less trouble with restless movements during the night, allowing them to sleep better and more deeply.

Our customer Marieke shares her experience

We spoke with Marieke (45) from Utrecht, who purchased a weighted blanket for her partner Erik (47), who has been struggling with Restless Leg Syndrome for over ten years. They shared their story about how the blanket has had a positive impact on their lives and sleep.

Can you tell us what the situation was like before you started using the weighted blanket?
"Erik has suffered from restless legs for as long as I have known him. It was a real problem, especially in the evenings and at night. We often had nights where he was constantly moving, and I would wake up regularly. At one point, we even slept in separate rooms because he felt guilty that I was sleeping badly because of him. That was really not ideal."

How did you come into contact with the weighted blanket?
"I was searching online for possible solutions, because the medications he had tried often had side effects. Then I came across an article about weighted blankets and specifically the one from Gravity Blankets . It sounded interesting, especially because it is a natural solution without medication. So we decided to try one, without too high expectations, I have to be honest."

What was your experience when you first used the blanket?
"It was a real surprise. The first night Erik used the weighted blanket, I immediately noticed a difference. He put the blanket over his legs, and after a while he seemed to become much calmer. He tossed and turned less, and for the first time in a long time he slept almost through the night. For me the difference was also big: I no longer woke up from his movements and could finally get a good night's sleep again."

Have you continued using the Gravity weighted blanket since then?
"Yes, absolutely. Erik uses the Gravity Blanket every night now, and it has become a regular part of our evening ritual. He puts the blanket over his legs before he goes to bed, and I notice that it really helps him fall asleep faster. The best part is that we can sleep together again without me being disturbed by his restless legs. It has really made a world of difference for both of us."

Would you recommend the weighted blanket to others with RLS?
"Definitely. It may not be the answer for everyone, but it has helped us tremendously. It's a simple way to relieve the symptoms of RLS without having to rely on medication. And that gives us peace of mind, because we wanted to try something natural. If you struggle with restless legs, it's definitely worth a try."

Conclusion: Why a weighted blanket can help

Restless Leg Syndrome is an annoying condition that can have a major impact on sleep quality and daily life. Traditional treatments, such as medication, can be effective, but often come with side effects. For many people, a weighted blanket can be a valuable, natural alternative.

The deep pressure stimulation (DTP) that the blanket provides can reduce the symptoms of RLS, resulting in a calmer body and a better night's sleep. For people like Erik and Marieke, the weighted blanket has made a positive change, allowing them to enjoy a peaceful night's sleep together again.

Are you curious whether a weighted blanket can also help you with RLS? It is definitely worth trying. Many users experience less restlessness and improved sleep, without the side effects of medication. It could be the solution you are looking for for a better night's sleep.

Updated on

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Recent Articles