About Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a disorder of the part of the nervous system that causes an urge to shake and move the legs. It is also considered as a sleep disorder since it usually interferes with sleep. Most People with Restless leg syndrome will have difficulty in initiating sleep and staying in sleep.

People with this syndrome feel severe sensations in their legs when sitting or lying down, accompanied by an irresistible urge to move the affected limb. These sensations less commonly affect the arms, trunk, or head. Although the sensations can occur on just one side of the body, they most often affect both sides, Women are most likely to develop restless legs syndrome than men. This condition is also more common in middle age, but the symptoms can develop at any age, including childhood.

Restless leg syndrome is associated with brains basal ganglia circuits’ dysfunction that uses the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is needed to produce smooth, purposeful muscle activity and movement. Disruption of these pathways frequently results in involuntary movements.

Restless leg syndrome can be treated symptomatically by moving the affected limbs which may provide temporary relief. Sometimes RLS symptoms can be controlled by associated medical condition like peripheral neuropathy or diabetes.