Sleep Disorders:  
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Narcolepsy
RLS/PLMD
Insomnia
Pediatric

Restless Legs Syndrome/Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (RLS/PLMD)

Restless Legs Syndrome is a condition characterized by uncomfortable and difficult to describe sensations in the legs, less often arms and still less frequently other parts of the body associated with an irresistible urge to move the affected areas.

How have people described the unusual sensations?

Aching, pulling, crawling, creeping, tingling, restless, tired and like electrical shocks among many other descriptions.

Why is Restless Legs Syndrome considered to be a sleep disorder?

The discomfort often leads to difficulties initiating and/or maintaining sleep.

When do the feelings occur?

Typically when the individual is inactive especially for long periods of time. The sensations occur more frequently at night but may occur in the day.

What relieves the sensations?

Massaging the affected area, warm baths and walking (if the legs are involved) may offer temporary relief.

What causes Restless Legs Syndrome?

Usually there is no identifiable cause although the condition has been associated with diabetes and low iron.

Are treatments available?

Yes, treatments are available so you do not have to suffer from these symptoms if they are affecting your quality of life. If your physician conducts the appropriate tests you might benefit from iron supplementation. However more often than not your treatment will likely consist of one of a few medications that are also used to treat Parkinson’s disease. When properly selected these agents are often well tolerated and quite successful. Other medications may be considered but should first be discussed with a physician.

For more information visit the Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation at www.rls.org

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder is a condition in which the legs and sometimes arms twitch periodically during sleep often leading to sleepiness when awake.

Is this the same as Restless Legs Syndrome?

No, while most individuals with Restless Legs Syndrome have periodic leg movements during sleep the conditions are considered to be separate.

What causes Periodic Limb Movement Disorder?

As with Restless Legs Syndrome there is usually no identifiable cause although diabetes and low iron are risk factors.

What are the treatments?

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder is for the most part treated with the same interventions as Restless Legs Syndrome.

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