Putting a pillow between your legs does help with RLS or restless leg syndrome.
Sleeping with a pillow between your legs can help restless leg syndrome by providing support for side sleepers and improving circulation and preventing of compression of the nerves in your legs which can alleviate discomfort and result in better sleep with restless leg syndrome.
Using a pillow between your knees and your thighs when on your side also helps to maintain a healthy spine and pelvic alignment, easing any pressure on your hips and lower back and creating a more comfortable sleeping position.
The actual root cause of restless leg syndrome is not really known or understood fully.
However there are several factors that can contribute to restless leg syndrome which include, neurochemical imbalances, Peripheral neuropathy, iron deficiency, blood flow problems, genetics, certain medications and other medical conditions.
Restless leg syndrome can involve an imbalance in dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in movement.
Damage to the nerves in your legs can result in abnormal sensations which can trigger restless leg syndrome.
Low iron levels can also affect the production of dopamine and result in restless leg syndrome.
Poor blood circulation in your legs can also worsen restless leg syndrome.
Restless leg syndrome can also run in families, which suggest a genetic predisposition.
And some medications like antidepressants and antihistamines can trigger restless leg syndrome or even worsen restless leg syndrome.
Restless leg syndrome can also be associated with diabetes, sleep apnea and kidney disease.
Restless leg syndrome can be made worse by several things which include some medications, lifestyle choices, underlying medical conditions etc.
Common triggers for restless leg syndrome are nicotine, alcohol, caffeine as well as some over the counter medications and prescription medications like anti nausea drugs, antidepressants and antihistamines.
Conditions like kidney disease, iron deficiency and even peripheral neuropathy can contribute to restless leg syndrome.
There's no cure for restless leg syndrome, although treatments can help manage the symptoms.
Treatments for restless leg syndrome include treating underlying iron deficiency with iron supplements or medication, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and avoiding caffeine and alcohol and taking prescribed medications like anti seizure medications or in severe cases of restless leg syndrome, you may need to take opioids or benzodiazepines.
Also a new technology called tonic motor activation can also help reduce symptoms of restless leg syndrome and improve sleep.