Natural Health: What can my mum take for her restless legs? 

Plus: natural ways of dealing with stiffness in the fingers

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is often most problematic at night since it is linked with periods of inactivity, such as lying down before sleep. Long-haul flights are another common trigger for RLS.

My mum, who is in her 70s, had a fall about two months ago and is making a slow recovery. Fortunately, she didn’t break any bones. Before the accident, she was active and enjoyed working in the garden and walking. She has now developed restless legs syndrome, which is keeping her awake at night. Is there a natural remedy she could take?

Your mum is obviously in excellent health, which will help significantly with her healing.

A couple of remedies may support any bruising or deep tissue trauma. Arnica montana and Bellis perennis can be taken as homoeopathic remedies to promote healing where deep tissue trauma and bruising have occurred. Homoeopathic arnica is also recommended to help with the emotional ‘bruising’ that often occurs following an accident or injury. Symphytum (homoeopathic comfrey preparation) is typically prescribed where broken bones and fractures are present. It’s also helpful in repairing soft tissue.

Traumeel is a herbal remedy for pain and inflammation. It contains 14 active ingredients and can be taken in oral liquid form or used as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic topical cream. Both products are available online — €15.95 each for 30ml of oral Traumeel drops or a 50g tube of cream.

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is often most problematic at night since it is linked with periods of inactivity, such as lying down before sleep. Long-haul flights are another common trigger for RLS.

The neurologically linked disorder leads to an overwhelming urge to move the legs to relieve the deep ache, tingling, or burning sensation commonly felt. Magnesium is the key nutrient in calming this urge. The mineral helps relax the muscles and nerves, and issues with muscle cramping are typically resolved through magnesium supplementation. Your mum will need to take around 400mg daily.

Excess calcium in the diet can also throw this ratio off balance. If your mother is taking a calcium supplement, it is worth checking to make sure that the ratio of calcium to magnesium is 2:1 (800mg of calcium to 400mg of magnesium daily).

Hands-on treatments, such as massage and stretching, can help your mum prepare for a more restful sleep. She can use massage oil or massage in the Traumeel cream while gently stretching before bed.

Although it may prove challenging in the middle of the night, it’s crucial not to fight the urge to move as this is likely to aggravate her symptoms.

For more information and support, visit www.restlesslegs.org.uk.

I’m in my 60s and have noticed my finger joints are getting stiff. Gentle exercise seems to help. Is there a supplement I could take to ensure they stay flexible?

I usually recommend supplements to treat pain or inflammation in the hands, as topical products tend to be washed off. Glucosamine sulphate provides the joints with elements to repair cartilage, tendons and ligaments and pairs well with chondroitin sulphate, which attracts nutrients and fluids to the joints to increase lubrication and shock absorption capabilities.

A remedy that pairs glucosamine and chondroitin is ideal since they work synergistically.

Hyaluronic acid is another essential ingredient, as it helps support the structural framework and maintain hydration in the cartilage. Try Solgar’s Hyaluronic Acid Complex tablets, which provide 120mg of hyaluronic acid plus biocell collagen II extract, chondroitin, and vitamin C.

• NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.