Colin Snow
When a leg has a sleep feeling, it is usually described as a numbness or tingling sensation, which could be caused by anything from sitting in one position for too long to nerve damage from diabetes. This is known as paresthesia, which is caused by the compression or irritation of nerves. Paresthesia is usually temporary and harmless, but it can be indicative of more serious conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), peripheral neuropathy, lupus, or some autoimmune conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sensation | Numbness, tingling, itching, pulling, crawling, throbbing, aching, "pins and needles" |
| Cause | Sitting in one position for too long, nerve damage, diabetes, peripheral neuropathy, lupus, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, blood clot, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pinched nerve, herniated disc, nutrient deficiency |
| Treatment | Changing sitting positions, walking, stretching, medication, supplements, steroids, pain relievers, physical therapy, surgery |
| Diagnosis | Overnight sleep study, physical exam, diagnostic tests |
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What You'll Learn
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
RLS can develop at any age but typically begins in middle age. It is more common in women, who are twice as likely to develop the condition than men. RLS also often runs in families, and specific gene variants are associated with the condition. In some cases, RLS is caused by an underlying health condition, such as iron deficiency anaemia, kidney failure, or pregnancy. Mild cases of RLS that are not linked to an underlying health condition may not require any treatment beyond lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep habits. More severe cases may require medication to regulate dopamine and iron levels in the body. Anti-seizure medications, such as gabapentin enacarbil or pregabalin, and dopaminergic agents, such as carbidopa/levodopa, can be prescribed to treat moderate to severe RLS.
Most people with RLS also experience periodic limb movement during sleep (PLMS), which causes involuntary leg and sometimes arm twitching or jerking movements. These movements typically occur every 15 to 40 seconds and can last throughout the night. While RLS and PLMS are linked, most people with PLMS do not have RLS. The cause of RLS is unknown in the majority of cases, but it is believed to be related to a dysfunction in the basal ganglia, a part of the brain that controls movement using the brain chemical dopamine.
A new technology called tonic motor activation (TOMAC) has recently been approved to reduce RLS symptoms and improve sleep quality. The system consists of devices worn on the lower legs that activate the muscles, mimicking the sensation of movement and reducing discomfort.
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Paresthesia
Persistent paresthesia is when the sensation lingers and doesn't go away. It is generally a symptom of more serious issues that may need medical attention. Persistent paresthesia can be caused by a lack of circulation or nerve damage. Conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome are relatively minor ways that persistent paresthesia can occur.
In the elderly, paresthesia is often the result of poor circulation in the limbs due to plaque buildup within artery walls over time. Without a proper supply of blood and nutrients, nerve cells can no longer adequately send signals to the brain. Paresthesia can also be a symptom of vitamin deficiency, malnutrition, or metabolic disorders like diabetes, hypothyroidism, or hypoparathyroidism. It can also be a symptom of mercury poisoning or inflammation of the tissue.
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Peripheral neuropathy
When your leg has a "sleep feeling", it could be due to anything from sitting in one position for too long to nerve damage from diabetes. This is known as paresthesia, where pressure briefly compresses nerves in your leg, preventing your brain and leg nerves from communicating properly. This can cause a “pins and needles" sensation or numbness so severe that you struggle to walk.
Paresthesia can be prevented by changing sitting positions often and avoiding crossing your legs for extended periods. However, if the numbness is caused by diabetes, you should examine your feet regularly for wounds or sores and seek help to control your blood sugar. Nerve damage can increase the risk of foot injuries, which may lead to painful joints over time.
Another possible cause of the "sleep feeling" in your leg is Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), a movement condition characterised by an urge to move the legs when resting. It can interfere with sleep and cause sensations such as itching, pulling, crawling, or throbbing in the legs. Symptoms are typically relieved by movement and are more common in the evening. While there is no cure for RLS, treatments are available.
In more severe cases, the "sleep feeling" could indicate peripheral neuropathy, which refers to conditions involving damage to the peripheral nervous system. This system sends signals between the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the rest of the body, controlling various functions such as movement, sensation, and organ function. Peripheral neuropathy disrupts nerve signalling and can affect one or many nerves, with symptoms varying depending on the type of nerves damaged (motor, sensory, or autonomic).
Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy, with high blood sugar levels damaging the tiny blood vessels that supply nerves. Other causes include certain medications, cancer treatments, immune system disorders, and genetic conditions such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. Peripheral neuropathy can affect movement, sensation, and organ function regulation, and may require medical attention to manage the condition and prevent further complications.
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Underlying health conditions
When your leg has a "sleep feeling", it could be due to anything from sitting in one position for too long to an underlying health condition. This condition is known as paresthesia, and the feeling should go away once you move your leg. However, if the numbness persists, it could be indicative of an underlying health issue.
One possible underlying health condition is restless legs syndrome (RLS). RLS is a movement condition that causes a strong urge to move the legs when resting, especially in the evening or at night. It is often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations in the legs, such as throbbing, aching, pulling, or crawling. RLS can severely interrupt sleep and cause difficulty falling or staying asleep. While there is no cure for RLS, treatments such as anti-seizure medications, dopaminergic agents, and a new technology called tonic motor activation (TOMAC) can help manage symptoms and improve sleep quality.
Another possible underlying condition is multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks its central nervous system. It can cause numbness in the legs, which may come and go, and a "pins and needles" feeling. In some cases, the numbness can be severe, leading to difficulty walking and an increased risk of foot injuries. Prescription steroids can help manage flare-ups.
Additionally, high blood sugar over an extended period can lead to peripheral neuropathy, which can cause leg numbness. This condition usually starts in the toes and gradually moves upward, often affecting both feet. It can also cause numbness in the hands and arms, which tends to worsen at night.
Furthermore, certain medications can contribute to leg numbness or sleepiness. Antihistamines, antidepressants, and anti-nausea drugs are known to cause or worsen RLS symptoms.
If you are experiencing persistent or frequent leg numbness or sleepiness, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
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Temporary vs chronic numbness
Temporary numbness is often caused by sitting or standing in one position for too long, which puts pressure on nerves and blood vessels, reducing sensation. This is known as paresthesia, and the feeling should go away once you change your position. Temporary numbness can also be caused by wearing tight clothing for too long, vitamin B deficiency, animal and insect bites, and exposure to poisons or toxins.
Chronic numbness may be a sign of an underlying health condition. For example, numbness is a common early symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS), a condition where the immune system attacks the central nervous system. Numbness is also a symptom of fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that causes widespread body pain, aching, and tenderness. In addition, diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to numbness in the legs. Other possible causes of chronic numbness include peripheral neuropathy, nerve compression syndromes, neuropathic pain, a ruptured or herniated disk, pinched nerve due to arthritis or bone spurs, and injury to the spinal cord, brain, or nerves.
If you are experiencing numbness that doesn't have an obvious cause, it is important to see a healthcare provider. While most cases of numbness aren't serious, severe cases can lead to complications such as an inability to feel pain, issues with balance and coordination, and not being able to tell hot from cold.
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Frequently asked questions
This is known as paresthesia, which is when you feel numbness or tingling in your leg. It is usually caused by sitting in one position for too long, which puts pressure on the nerves in your leg.
The symptoms of paresthesia include a prickling or pins and needles sensation, numbness, and in some cases, difficulty contracting your muscles and using the affected leg.
If paresthesia is accompanied by other symptoms such as changes in colour, shape, or temperature of the leg, or if it persists for an extended period, it could indicate an underlying medical condition such as nerve damage from diabetes, multiple sclerosis, or peripheral neuropathy. Seek medical advice if you experience these symptoms.
To relieve paresthesia, change your sitting position, move your leg, or try shaking or stamping your leg. These actions can help restore normal sensation and blood flow to the affected area.
In most cases, paresthesia resolves on its own without the need for medical treatment. However, if it is caused by an underlying condition, treating that condition may help manage the paresthesia. In some cases, physical therapy or surgery may be recommended to relieve nerve compression.
