|
|
|
Restless Legs Syndrome
Description
Restless legs syndrome is a motor (movement) disorder characterized by uncomfortable
sensations in the legs, which is worse during periods of inactivity or rest or while
sitting or lying down. Individuals affected with the disorder describe the sensations as
pulling, drawing, crawling, wormy, boring, tingling, pins and needles, prickly, and
sometimes painful sensations that are usually accompanied by an overwhelming urge to move
the legs. Sudden muscle jerks may also occur. Movement provides temporary relief from the
discomfort. In rare cases, the arms may also be affected. Symptoms may interfere with
sleep (sleep onset insomnia). Research suggests that restless legs syndrome is related to
periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD), another more common motor disorder which causes
disturbed sleep.
Treatment
Treatment for restless legs syndrome is symptomatic. In most cases, medications such as
clonazepam, temazepam, levodopa/carbidopa, bromocriptine, pergolide mesylate, oxycodone,
propoxyphene, and codeine are effective in relieving the symptoms. However, some
medications may have side effects. Application of cold compresses may also provide relief
of symptoms.
Prognosis
Restless legs syndrome is a life-long condition for which there is no cure. Symptoms
may gradually worsen with age, and their most disabling feature is the sleep onset
insomnia they cause, which can be severe.
Research
The NINDS supports an extensive program of basic research aimed at discovering the
mechanisms behind many motor disorders such as restless legs syndrome, especially those
associated with sleep. The goal of this research is to discover ways to prevent, diagnose,
treat, and, ultimately, find cures for motor disorders including restless legs syndrome.
These articles, available from a medical library, may provide more in-depth
information on restless legs syndrome:
- McGee, S. "Restless legs syndrome." Journal of American Medical Association,
265:22; 3014 (June 12, 1991).
- Pelletier, G, Lorrain, D, and Montplaisir, J. "Sensory and motor components of the
restless legs syndrome." Neurology, 42:9; 1663-1666 (September 1992).
- To Obtain Suggested Resources
(click)...
Information may also be available from the following organizations:
Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation, Inc.
4410 19th Street, NW, Suite 201
Rochester, MN 55901-6624
National Organization for Rare Disorders
PO Box 8923
New Fairfield, CT 06812
(203) 746-6518
(800) 999-6673
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
Last Edited: July 29, 1997
|
