Restless Legs Awareness Day
Learn and help raise awareness about Restless Leg Syndrome, a neurological disorder that affects the sleep and comfort of many, from minor to life-altering.
Position your healthcare or wellness brand as a trusted partner in RLS diagnosis and management by driving awareness and encouraging medical consultation during this observance.
- Do you have unexplained leg urges at night? Learn the signs of RLS and when to see a doctor.
- Restless Legs Awareness Day: Supporting those affected by this neurological condition.
- Pharma/wellness brands: Partner with patient advocacy groups to educate and drive consultations on September 23rd.
Restless Legs Awareness Day aims to promote awareness of this medical condition or syndrome. The day was first established in 2012 and it is held on the same day each year to coincide with the birthdate of Professor Karl-Axel Ekborn (born September 23rd 1907, died 1977).
This eminent Swedish neurologist first wrote and described the disease in 1945. Since then, a lot has been learned about its symptoms although to date there is no known primary cause. Some researchers believe that it may be associated with dopamine, blood iron levels, or possibly underlying issues in the veins. Secondary causes may include some medications or other predisposing medical conditions.
Characterized by urges to move the legs even when at rest, Restless Leg Syndrome can actually also sometimes occur in the arms, but this is less common.
Restless Legs Awareness Day aims to increase understanding of RLS and the jerky movements and in some cases distress caused. A cure is still being sought, but more information becomes available all the time as research and studies are performed.
In 2013, the state of North Carolina in the USA proclaimed that this day should be observed by all citizens. And now, more than a decade after its founding, Restless Legs Awareness Day is an annual event that continues to grow in scope and impact.
See a Doctor About Restless Legs Syndrome
Those who suspect that they may have RLS may want to commit to seeing a doctor in honor of Restless Legs Awareness Day. This day could be a great motivation to make that call to a medical professional to find out more and determine if a diagnosis is needed. Those who don’t have the condition themselves but have a friend or family member who does can use this day as an opportunity to be supportive and encouraging as they seek the medical help they need.