Losing Sleep Due to Restless Legs? You Have Options.
August 17, 2026
Everyone has experienced it before: A bad night’s sleep that snowballs into a miserable day. Consistently getting a good night’s sleep is one of the best things you can do for your overall well-being – but as many know – it’s not always that easy. For some, the cause of poor sleep is that irresistible and uncomfortable urge to move your legs, often referred to as restless legs syndrome.
Many who live with RLS believe there isn’t much that can be done about it. That’s not true, thanks to advancements in treatment options over the past few years. Christopher Morgan, MD, a neurologist and sleep medicine specialist with Trinity Health Medical Group, clears up some of the common myths about RLS and what you can do to get a better night’s sleep.
Christopher Morgan, MD
Neurology, Sleep Medicine
Trinity Health Medical Group, Sleep Medicine – Cherry
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First off, what is restless legs syndrome (RLS)?
Christopher Morgan, MD: RLS is a disruptive neurologic disorder that seriously affects 3% of the adult population. RLS results in an irresistible urge to move the legs, which is often accompanied by unusual or unpleasant sensations in the legs that may be described as creeping, tugging or pulling. RLS most often occurs in the evening and can severely disrupt sleep, leading to a reduced quality of life.
How can RLS impact a person’s sleep?
Christopher Morgan, MD: The sensations of RLS may keep you from falling asleep and/or staying asleep during the night. This results in worse sleep quality which affects many aspects of life. RLS may also impair relaxing activities in the evening such as watching TV or other sitting and sedentary activities.
What are common “myths” about RLS?
Christopher Morgan, MD: Many people don’t understand what it is and figure there is not much they can do about it. I also see many doctors miss the diagnosis and diagnose just insomnia – without diagnosing RLS or addressing the RLS symptoms.
What are the challenges when it comes to treating RLS?
Christopher Morgan, MD: Using medications to treat RLS can have side effects and some medications worsen RLS over time, which can be challenging to manage. Reducing or eliminating triggers for RLS can also be challenging. These include antidepressant medications, alcohol, caffeine and highly processed foods and sugars.
Are there treatment options that do not involve the use of medications?
Christopher Morgan, MD: Yes, there is a device that wraps around the lower leg just below the knee and creates a gentle simulation of a nerve called the peroneal nerve. The sensation it provides helps reduce the symptoms of RLS without the use of medications. It is used “on demand”, so as soon as you feel RLS symptoms, you can turn it on rather than having to time the treatment before symptoms start as we have to do with medication.
Are there any challenges or side effects associated with the device?
Christopher Morgan, MD: A small number of patients did not get the response they had hoped for, or had some mild discomfort from the therapy, but generally there are very minimal side effects. When this happens, we work closely with the patient to adjust their treatment plan to find the right option for their specific needs.
How long have you been recommending this treatment and what feedback have you gotten from patients?
Christopher Morgan, MD: We have been recommending the device since it received FDA approval in 2023. So far, most patients feel it’s been helpful in limiting the symptoms of RLS in the evening and even in the middle of the night. It has improved the amount and quality of sleep they get – which as we know – leads to an overall better quality of life.
Are You Struggling With Restless Legs?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) can make it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, and get the restorative rest your body needs. Learn more about sleep disorder care at Trinity Health Michigan and connect with a sleep specialist who can help you find relief and improve your quality of life.