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Original poster

Desperate for help! Restless legs!

5 replies

Jodielou5972 · 17/02/2023 16:19

Hi, I'm new here but need some advice!
I'm currently 32 weeks pregnant - first baby. So far this pregnancy has been no bother, a bit of swelling in legs and tired, but no problems.
For the past 4ish weeks I've suffered really bad with restless legs, I understand it is just part of being pregnant. However its at the point now where I can't sit or lie down at all. I have had no sleep for weeks. Last night I had a complete breakdown, I was so busy during the day and when I got home my legs were swollen, so I tried to sit and elevate to help, restless legs kicked off, I was pacing around my living room in tears until after midnight, every time I lie/sit down it kicks off. I can handle being tired, but at least let me rest a little, my back and feet are breaking and I just want to sit down!
I have tried hot baths, hot water bottles, walking, swimming, magnesium and iron supplements, even a TENS machine. Nothing seems to help. But now I'm struggling with mom guilt because I took a codiene last night to help me sleep, it calmed my legs down and actually worked! But now I feel like a bad mam, and I know I cant do that every night! Don't know what to do.. Midwife says its just part of being pregnant, which I understand, but I am so sleep deprived I feel sick and severe headache all the time.
Any tips or advice really appreciated! Sorry for the long post!

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AnnieApple123 · 17/02/2023 16:31

Have you tried magnesium cream that you rub directly into the skin? I’ve had success with this.

Overall I’d keep going with the magnesium in whatever form as magnesium requirements increase in pregnancy and it can take to build your level back up if you’re deficient. Bathing in magnesium salts may also help.

Original poster
Jodielou5972 · 17/02/2023 19:31

AnnieApple123 · 17/02/2023 16:31

Have you tried magnesium cream that you rub directly into the skin? I’ve had success with this.

Overall I’d keep going with the magnesium in whatever form as magnesium requirements increase in pregnancy and it can take to build your level back up if you’re deficient. Bathing in magnesium salts may also help.

My wife just ordered me the magnesium oil, amazon so it's coming tomorrow! I really hope it helps. Docs have said all my bloods are normal so I don't think I'm deficient, just hoping a boost might help. Need all the help I can get at the minute

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AnnieApple123 · 17/02/2023 20:39

Sorry that was meant to say ‘it can take time’ - hopefully you figured that out!

There’s quite a difference between normal and optimal levels. So, as you say, a boost can help.

lucy120606 · 18/02/2023 00:43

I had a problem with this especially when pregnant. I found that one of the blue gel cooling pillow pads (or pet cooling mat) worked wonders! Keeping my feet cool was the only way I can control my restless legs x

Original poster
Jodielou5972 · 18/02/2023 09:11

lucy120606 · 18/02/2023 00:43

I had a problem with this especially when pregnant. I found that one of the blue gel cooling pillow pads (or pet cooling mat) worked wonders! Keeping my feet cool was the only way I can control my restless legs x

I never thought of cold! I've been using heat on my thighs (works intermittently), I'll have to try cold on my feet. Thank you! X

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