Healthy Sleep for the Rest of Your Life

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)

What is RLS?

Restless Legs Syndrome is an overwhelming urge to move the legs usually caused by uncomfortable or unpleasant sensations in the legs. The sensations have the following features:

• Occur during periods of inactivity
• Become more sensitive in the evening and at night
• Are relieved by movement of the limb
• Often cause difficulty staying or falling asleep, which leads to feelings of daytime tiredness or fatigue
• May cause involuntary jerking of the limbs during sleep and sometimes during wakefulness

If you do have restless legs syndrome (RLS), you are not alone. Up to 8% of the US population may have this neurologic condition. Many people have a mild form of the disorder, but RLS severely affects the lives of millions of individuals.

What are the newest treatments for RLS?

On May 5, 2005, the FDA approved the first ever drug for treatment of restless legs syndrome: ropinirole (Requip). Talk to your doctor about what this great advancement means for you.

Several drugs approved for other conditions have undergone clinical studies in RLS and are found to be helpful.  Our Medical Bulletin contains the latest treatment information.

What non-drug treatments are recommended for RLS?

Self-directed activities that counteract your sensations of RLS appear to be very effective, although temporary, solutions to managing the disorder. You may find that walking, stretching, taking a hot or cold bath, massaging your affected limb, applying hot or cold packs, using vibration, performing acupressure, and practicing relaxation techniques (such as biofeedback, meditation, or yoga) may help reduce or relieve your symptoms. You may also find that keeping your mind actively engaged through activities such as reading a gripping novel, performing intricate needlework, or playing video games helps during times that you must stay seated, such as when you are traveling.

Do I need any tests to diagnose RLS?

After ruling out other medical conditions as the cause of your symptoms, your healthcare provider can make the diagnosis of RLS by listening to your description of the sensations. No laboratory test confirms your diagnosis of RLS; however, a thorough examination, including necessary laboratory tests, can reveal temporary disorders, such as iron deficiency, that may be associated with RLS. Some people (including those with PLMS and without the abnormal limb sensations of RLS) will require an overnight testing of sleep to determine other causes of the sleep disturbance.

© 2006 Somnus Sleep Clinic of Central Mississippi, LLC