Are you missing this simple treatment for restless legs?

Iron supplementation may be all it takes to reduce symptoms of restless legs syndrome. But many doctors don't know about it.

Image: © AlexRaths/Getty Images

People with restless legs syndrome (RLS) experience an overwhelming need to move the legs, particularly at night or as they fall asleep. But a simple treatment that may help reduce RLS symptoms is often overlooked as a potential first line of defense.

"The concern is that people are being started on medications first when iron might be a valuable treatment. It's simple, with relatively few side effects," says Dr. John Winkelman, an RLS specialist at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital.