Authored by MCN Neurologists

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a medical condition in which people experience uncomfortable sensations in the legs while at rest.  The sensations are associated with an urge to move the extremity.  To relieve the sensations, patients attempt to perform activities such as walking, shaking, stretching or other movements.  Persons with RLS have problems falling asleep because lying down and trying to relax activates their symptoms.  They also have difficulty staying asleep.

Cause of Restless Leg Syndrome  

The cause of RLS is unknown.  It seems likely that RLS is related to a dysfunction of neurotransmission in the nervous system; however, research is ongoing in this area. 

What to Expect at Your Doctor’s Visit

The physician will take a history of the symptoms and past medical history.  Questions will be asked about when symptoms occur, how sleep is affected, family history of similar problems, involuntary movement of the extremities at night and any medications used that might help the symptoms or make them worse.  A neurological exam will be performed to test for other conditions that can have symptoms similar to RLS and those that may make RLS worse.  Laboratory blood tests may be ordered to exclude iron deficiency, renal dysfunction, thyroid disorders and other conditions that might be related to RLS.  Sometimes, a sleep study will be recommended to assist with diagnosis or treatment.

Treatment of Restless Leg Syndrome    

There is no definitive cure for RLS; however, many medications have been used successfully to treat RLS.  Those used most commonly are the dopamine agonists (ropinirole, pramipexole) and carbidopa/levodopa.  Improved nutrition, exercise and sleep hygiene are often helpful to reduce RLS symptoms.  There are some medications and substances that might need to be avoided to help RLS.  With the medications available for treating RLS, patients working in close cooperation with their physicians can usually achieve relief from RLS symptoms.

For further information about Restless Leg Syndrome, click on the following links:

www.rls.org  (Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation)
www.thebrainmatters.org (The American Academy of Neurology)
www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/restless_legs/restless_legs.htm (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)

January 1, 2010

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