RLS Unplugged

In this episode of RLS Unplugged, Karla Dzienkowski, Executive Director of the RLS Foundation, is joined by Dr. Andrew Berkowski, a board certified sleep specialist and neurologist. Dr. Berkowski is a member of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group, and most recently serves as vice chair of the AASM’s Clinical Practice Guidelines Task Force for the Treatment of RLS published in January 2025.In this episode, Dr. Berkowski breaks down 15 common myths and misconceptions associated with RLS. From old wives’ tales like soap under the sheets to misunderstandings in iron testing and other medical procedures - Dr. Berkowski separates fact from fiction. Tune in for a quick, myth-busting recap that brings clarity to this often-misunderstood condition.All content offered in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Individuals suspecting they may have RLS should consult a qualified healthcare provider.Host: Karla Dzienkowski, RN, BSN, RLS Foundation Executive DirectorGuest speaker: Andrew J. Berkowski, MD, ReLACS HealthProduced By: Frank Garza, Charge ProductionsExecutive Producer: Adrianna Colucci, RLS Foundation Communications CoordinatorThe RLS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to improve the lives of those living with restless legs syndrome, a serious neurological disorder. RLS affects an estimated 10 million adults and 1.5 million children in the United States. For more resources including support groups, educational events or scientifically reviewed publications, visit the RLS Foundation website at www.rls.org.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @RLSFoundationHave additional questions? Call the RLS Foundation at (512) 366-9109 or email info@rls.org.

In this episode of RLS Unplugged, Karla Dzienkowski, Executive Director of the RLS Foundation, is joined by sleep expert and adjunct professor at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Dr. Shalini Paruthi. Dr. Paruthi explores some of the lifestyle changes and non-prescription therapies that may alleviate RLS symptoms, such as sleep architecture, exercise, diet, massage devices, cryotherapy and more. Drawing on her clinical experience and sleep research, Dr. Paruthi shares practical advice for navigating RLS in daily life and emphasizes the importance of individualized care. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or looking for alternative ways to manage symptoms alongside traditional treatments, this conversation offers helpful insights you won’t want to miss.All content offered in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Individuals suspecting they may have RLS should consult a qualified healthcare provider.Host: Karla Dzienkowski, RN, BSN, RLS Foundation Executive DirectorGuest speaker: Shalini Paruthi, Saint Louis University School of MedicineProduced By: Frank Garza, Charge ProductionsExecutive Producer: Adrianna Colucci, RLS Foundation Communications CoordinatorThe RLS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to improve the lives of those living with restless legs syndrome, a serious neurological disorder. RLS affects an estimated 10 million adults and 1.5 million children in the United States. For more resources including support groups, educational events or scientifically reviewed publications, visit the RLS Foundation website at www.rls.org.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @RLSFoundationHave additional questions? Call the RLS Foundation at (512) 366-9109 or email info@rls.org.

In the first episode of RLS Unplugged, Karla Dzienkowski, Executive Director of the RLS Foundation, welcomes Dr. William Ondo, RLS Quality Care Center Director at Houston Methodist to the podcast. In this episode, Dr. Ondo lays the foundation for understanding RLS, answering:- What is RLS?- How is it diagnosed?- What conditions can mimic RLS?- What do we know about the underlying biology of the disease?Whether you’re newly diagnosed, supporting a loved one with RLS or simply curious, this episode serves as your starting point for learning about this common, yet underdiagnosed disease.This podcast is made possible thanks to support from Azurity Pharmaceuticals. These episodes make information easily accessible – even while you’re walking!All content offered in this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for the advice of a medical professional. Individuals suspecting they may have RLS should consult a qualified healthcare provider.Host: Karla Dzienkowski, RN, BSN, RLS Foundation Executive DirectorGuest speaker: William Ondo, MD, Houston Methodist Neurological InstituteProduced By: Frank Garza, Charge ProductionsExecutive Producer: Adrianna Colucci, RLS Foundation Communications CoordinatorThe RLS Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that aims to improve the lives of those living with restless legs syndrome, a serious neurological disorder. RLS affects an estimated 10 million adults and 1.5 million children in the United States. For more resources including support groups, educational events or scientifically reviewed publications, visit the RLS Foundation website at www.rls.org.Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @RLSFoundationHave additional questions? Call the RLS Foundation at (512) 366-9109 or email info@rls.org.