Conventional medical approach

Restless legs – a mystery for sufferers and doctors. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterised by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by unpleasant sensations. This now widespread syndrome can have a significant impact on the sleep and quality of life of those affected. On this page, we will explore the various drug treatments to help sufferers and their families better understand this complex condition.

Dopamine and iron as causes

The exact causes of RLS are varied and complex. It is believed that a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a role. A central role in the development of RLS is played by the...

1. Dopamine agonists

People with restless legs syndrome (RLS) often have a problem with dopamine, an important messenger substance in the brain that helps control movement in the body. When there is an imbalance or disruption in dopamine levels, the legs can become restless and the typical urge to move can be felt. Dopamine levels are usually highest in the morning and decrease throughout the day. In the evening and at night, lower dopamine levels can contribute to more pronounced RLS symptoms.
Dopamine agonists are medications that work similarly to dopamine. You can think of them as helping the real dopamine. They take over when the body's own dopamine in the brain is...

2. Opioids

Opioids, also known as opiates, are among the strongest and fastest-acting painkillers. Pain specialists distinguish between weak and strong opioids.

How they work: they dock onto the body's own opioid receptors and in this way have an analgesic effect. They can also trigger feelings of relaxation and sometimes euphoria, which is why they are also misused as a drug. They are used primarily for the treatment of cancer pain, pain after injury and pain after surgery. The risk of dependence is very high, so opiates and opioids should only be taken for a short period of time.

Possible side effects (excerpt):

Sleep apnoea: The frequency is unclear, but the risk may be increased,...

3. Anticonvulsants

Anticonvulsants are medications that were originally developed for the symptomatic treatment of epileptic seizures. They are therefore also referred to as ‘antiepileptics’.

How they work: The respective mechanisms of action of the different anticonvulsants are very complex, since in some cases there are several neuronal targets. However, they all basically aim to stabilise neuronal activity in the brain in order to reduce the frequency and severity of seizures.

Therefore, these medications can also be used in the treatment of RLS to control the unwanted movements and sensations in the legs. Although anticonvulsants were not developed specifically for RLS, they have proven to be helpful, especially for patients who experience pain or...

4. Natural alternative without medication: cold therapy

The application of cold to Restless-Legs has interesting effects on the nervous system that can help alleviate symptoms. To understand how this works, it helps to look at the body's physiological responses to cold. So what happens to the nerves when cold is applied?

Slowing of nerve conduction velocity:

Cold slows the transmission speed of nerve impulses. In the extremities, this can reduce unpleasant sensations such as tingling, burning or pain. The nerves are less ‘reactive’, which can lead to a certain calming of the symptoms.

Reducing the inflammatory response:

Although inflammation is not necessarily a primary factor in RLS, an accompanying inflammatory response in the legs can contribute to symptom intensification. By...

This is where our Kalter Bruder® Relax gel makes a difference. Specially formulated for a long-lasting cooling effect, its unique recipe harnesses the fresh gel of the aloe vera plant and arnica, both known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Key ingredients like menthol and camphor enhance the cooling effect, helping to relieve pain and reduce swelling.

Kalter Bruder® offers a practical and efficient way to leverage the benefits of cold therapy.  Its cooling effect delivers gentle, consistent deep cooling without harming the skin or restricting mobility.

The vicious circle of pills – an interview with Kalter Bruder® founder Carsten

Carsten, what motivated you to found Kalter Bruder®?

"I have been suffering from restless legs for about 10 years and at some point I was prescribed tablets that are often used for RLS. However, the side effects were so severe that I had to stop taking them and since then I have been wondering what natural alternatives there are, not just for restless legs."

How do you generally assess current treatment methods for classic age-related illnesses?

"The vast majority of customers who try Kalter Bruder® have already taken tablets. There is a reason why these often very desperate people are looking for alternatives to conventional medicine. Regardless of whether you suffer from chronic nerve, joint or muscle pain - if you take tablets, it is almost always a kind of band-aid. The causes lie in our lifestyle and our genetics - but conventional medicine is not designed to see the whole person and tackle the root of the problem.

And what does Kalter Bruder® want to do about it?

"We hit the jackpot with our gel - it seems to be extremely effective against inflammation, and the vast majority of age-related illnesses such...

Restless legs with sleep disorders for 4 years.

"After taking Levod*** and no longer being able to bear the side effects, I discovered Kalter Bruder®. I was able to stop the pills immediately and finally sleep through the night again."

Sabine, 60 from NRW Kalter Bruder® fan since 03/2022

Severe restless legs after a pelvic fracture.

"The gel from Kalter Bruder® is pretty close to being a miracle cure - I was able to stop taking Levod*** completely and reduce the dose of Oxy**** significantly. Pro tip: it works best after a shower."

Christian, 88 from Marktheidenfeld Kalter Bruder® fan since 09/2023

Restless legs worsening with menopause

"Every evening, I do a wall-sit exercise and then rub the gel on my legs – it always works, and I fall asleep perfectly again. I’m endlessly grateful to have found this amazing gel!"

Karin, 56 from Baar (Switzerland) Karin, 56 from Baar (Switzerland)

Sleep disorders with restless legs during on-call duty.

“Since 1988, my legs have been stabbing, twitching, and tingling. In 2005, I discovered Rotigotine patches, which provided relief. Today, I also use Kalter Bruder® gel and hardly have any issues anymore.”

Sabine, 76 from Rügen Kalter Bruder® fan since 07/2023

Burning feet – tried so many things.

"The neurologist prescribed me patches and tablets where the dosage and side effects kept increasing. Of all the cooling ointments, Kalter Bruder® is by far the strongest and worth every cent."

Judith, 32 from Vienna Kalter Bruder® fan since 11/2022

Hot feet like sunburn on the soles.

“Without exaggeration, Kalter Bruder® has truly changed my life – the polyneuropathy in my feet and legs is improving, and the cooling effect completely eliminates pain and twitching.”

Daniela, 52 from Idstein Kalter Bruder® fan since 07/2021

Nightly nerve pain.

"I have been taking the painkiller Tra*** for 20 years, but my body gets used to it. With Kalter Bruder®, I can reduce the discomfort as needed and have the strength to work on my garden again."

Hans, 90 from Lower Saxony Kalter Bruder® fan since 06/2023

Polyneuropathy triggered by chemotherapy (by Oxali***).

"My night pain disappeared immediately and since then I have been using it every morning and evening. I now even feel a general relief in my feet, legs and hands."

Matthias, 66 from Wetzlar Kalter Bruder® fan since 09/2023

Restless legs worsening with menopause

"The doctors recommended using menthol, and that’s how I discovered the gel. I'm absolutely thrilled - no more nightly attacks, cramps or pain."

Gisela, 79 from Winnenden Kalter Bruder® fan since 10/2023

Polyneuropathy from the hip to the foot.

“Since I started using Kalter Bruder®, I’ve been able to significantly reduce my medication intake, and I hope this amazing product can help as many people as possible”

Gebhard from Verl Kalter Bruder® fan since 09/2023

Barely any sensation in the lower leg after chemotherapy.

"My husband was doubly burdened with restless legs and polyneuropathy. However, daily application of Kalter Bruder® stimulates circulation, and the twitching is almost gone - we are delighted!"

Sandra & Ruud from Baar (Switzerland) Kalter Bruder® fan since 11/2022

THE NATURAL POWER OF KALTER BRUDER®

This unique composition is one of a kind: Our secret formula is specially developed for people with nerve, joint and muscle issues. We harness the power of nature to support your body’s self-healing process. No magic, no frippery. Simply natural.

THE NATURAL POWER OF KALTER BRUDER®

COOLS

The deep cooling effect relaxes your muscles and activates your body's natural regeneration process.

BOOSTS CIRCULATION

Increased blood flow allows harmful substances to be removed more effectively, which accelerates the healing process.

SOOTHES

The medicinal plants have anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve pain and calm nerves.

GIVE YOUR BODY THE REST IT DESERVES.

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  • Natural

  • Made in Germany

  • Tested

  • Vegan

  • Cooling

  • Skin-friendly

TRUE BROTHERLY LOVE

We are Carsten and Stefan - twins from Lüneburg. We ourselves suffer from RLS and founded Kalter Bruder® to offer an alternative to conventional medicine. With our gel, we’ve truly struck gold. In our magazine, we share insights from studies, provide nutrition and exercise tips, and uncover what you absolutely need to know.

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