MASSAGE

Massage FEELS good, but doesn't always work. Until recently, I did NOT consider it a real therapy for RLS. Then, I realized we might not have been doing the right kind of massage. My husband used to try light rubbing,
Arghhh!
Or using his finger tips or thumbs. . . Arghhhh more!
But one night, I suggested I lie on my stomach and have him use the base of his hand and firmly press up and down my calves and thighs...as if it were a rolling pin, smashing the muscles flat. It feels soooooo good! Then, right when he's done, he builds up friction and heat...rubbing my legs really fast. That warmth goes soooo deep, and it stays with me, as I fall asleep. You just don't even want to move your legs...even though you are aware of slight RLS feelings.

There is a definite correlation to the amount of pressure I can take, the knots he feels in my legs, and the intensity of the RLS that preceded the massage. When it's preventative...just a nightly ritual...my muscles are loose and relaxed and he can press hard. BUT, when I've already been in the throws of a major RLS attack, and am trying massage therapy to relax it....he says he feels the knots, and I tend to keep yelling, "Lighten UP!!!!!" This nerve/muscle relationship must be why so many people find relief from stretching their legs. I still don't think it's caused by something muscular...but I'm more convinced by the day that the RLS affects the muscles and makes them VERY tense and knotted up.




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