Does Weed Help With Restless Legs Syndrome?

Many people suffering from restless leg syndrome (RLS) wonder if cannabis could provide relief. RLS is not currently a qualifying condition for medical cannabis in Arizona. However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that cannabis could provide symptomatic relief from the persistent symptoms of RLS. This option is worth exploring if sleep medications haven’t worked for you.

What Is RLS?

RLS is a sensorimotor disorder associated with an unstoppable urge to move the legs. This sensation is sometimes accompanied by an unpleasant sensation or even pain. Patients suffering from restless leg syndrome usually note that their symptoms worsen during the evening, at night, or during periods of rest. Though activity tends to temporarily relieve the sensation, increasing daily activity isn't a cure.

Studies suggest that 13 percent of Americans suffer from RLS. Treatment is often necessary to get the rest you need.

Impact of RLS

Restless leg syndrome sometimes has a significant impact on sufferers' quality of life and quality of sleep. Sleep disorders are associated with a host of negative health consequences, including an increased risk of hypertension, obesity, diabetes, heart attack, and stroke.

Sleep physicians also note that sleep deficiency caused by RLS or other sleep disorders often has damaging effects on mental health. Sleep deficiency has been linked to high anxiety levels, impaired emotional regulation, and a greater susceptibility to stress and depression.

Restless Leg Syndrome vs. Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)

Restless leg syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder share some symptoms. However, there are several key differences between them.

	Restless Leg Syndrome	Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
Symptoms	Uncomfortable sensations that cause an uncontrollable urge to move the legs	Involuntary movement of either arms or legs during sleep
When Symptoms Occur	When awake, at rest, or when falling asleep	Only during sleep
Diagnosis	Based on the patient’s symptoms and history	Polysomnography and electromyography tests
Treatment Options	Raising dopamine levels, lifestyle changes, and improved sleep hygiene	Identifying the underlying cause, some medications, and improved sleep hygiene

It’s essential to know what you’re dealing with before self-medicating with cannabis. A sleep specialist will recommend tests to confirm which condition you have and advise you on your treatment options.

Is RLS a Qualifying Condition in Arizona?

Restless legs syndrome is not an Arizona qualifying condition. However, RLS sometimes overlaps with other conditions that do qualify for a medical marijuana card.

For example, one study reported that patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are 19 times more likely to also suffer from RLS (“Frequency and clinical feature of RLS” section). Patients who suffer from RLS because of their ALS could benefit from cannabis–based treatments. ALS is an Arizona qualifying condition, so cardholders can purchase medical marijuana without paying the 16 percent excise tax.

Similarly, people with post-traumatic stress disorder are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders like RLS. Patients using MMJ to treat their PTSD (which is a qualifying condition in Arizona) may find that their RLS symptoms also improve. 

Tip: Our guides on the best strains for ALS and the best strains for PTSD are good places to start if you have one of these conditions and are considering MMJ.

How Cannabis Might Help With RLS

Rigorous study of cannabis efficacy for restless leg syndrome is so far lacking. 

However, a couple of studies have yielded promising results:

• A 2020 survey on RLS and pruritus showed that most patients experienced symptom relief with cannabis.

• Research by Dr. Imad Ghorayeb (published in 2020) noted patient reports of “a remarkable and total remission of RLS symptoms following cannabis use.”

Is CBD or THC Better for RLS?

No official studies have specifically examined the effects of CBD vs THC in patients with restless leg syndrome. However, there has been research on how THC and CBD affect sleep and sleep disorders in general:

• THC appears to decrease sleep latency at low to moderate doses. However, THC may cause daytime sleepiness. CBD could help with daytime sleepiness.

• CBD may work to encourage sleep in people with anxiety by calming the nervous system. 

• It could be worth experimenting with both THC and CBD (starting with low doses) and our recommended strains for RLS to see which cannabinoid(s) and products help your symptoms the most.

Other Strategies to Try for RLS

Certain lifestyle changes may alleviate RLS symptoms alongside cannabis-based treatments. These include:

• Avoiding or minimizing triggers like caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol consumption

• Avoiding prescription meds that may trigger symptoms, like sedating antihistamines and dopamine blockers (See the “Avoiding medication that exacerbate restless legs syndrome” section)

• Incorporating regular exercise into your routine (avoid exercise in the evening before you go to bed)

• Following a consistent sleeping pattern

• Massaging your legs

• Stretching your legs or going for a walk

Things to Keep in Mind When Trying Cannabis for RLS

Some individuals with restless leg syndrome report symptom relief from medical marijuana. However, cannabis isn't considered a first-line treatment. Before trying cannabis for RLS, keep these points in mind:

• Consult a healthcare professional: It’s important to check that cannabis won’t cause interactions with any other medication you’re taking.

• Start at low doses: Begin treatment with the lowest possible dose. You can increase it when needed. This will help prevent unpleasant side effects.

• Experiment with different products: Try different THC-to-CBD ratios to see what works for you.

• Monitor your symptoms: Note any improvements or unexpected side effects to find the perfect treatment schedule over time.

Seek Medical Advice for RLS Symptoms

Restless leg syndrome can cause negative consequences for your physical and mental health. Getting diagnosed and taking steps to treat your condition must be a priority.

Medical cannabis use could be included in your treatment schedule if you also suffer from a related qualifying condition like ALS or PTSD and live in Arizona. Consult an expert medical marijuana doctor to see if you qualify.