Conditions & Treatments | Restless Leg Syndrome

What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease, is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, usually due to uncomfortable sensations.

What Are the Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome?

The primary symptom of RLS is an overwhelming urge to move the legs. Other common symptoms include:

Uncomfortable sensations: Described as creeping, crawling, pulling, throbbing, aching, itching, or electric.
Relief with movement: Symptoms are relieved by movement such as stretching, jiggling the legs, pacing, or walking.
Nighttime leg twitching: RLS may be associated with another condition called periodic limb movement of sleep (PLMS), which causes the legs to twitch and kick, possibly throughout the night, while you sleep.

Symptoms may be worse in the evening or at night.

What Causes Restless Leg Syndrome?

The exact cause of RLS is unknown, but it may be related to an imbalance of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that sends messages to control muscle movement.

Factors that may contribute to RLS include:

Genetics: RLS can run in families, especially if the condition starts before age 40.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy or hormonal changes may temporarily worsen RLS signs and symptoms.
Chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases such as Parkinson's disease, diabetes, and peripheral neuropathy are associated with RLS.
Medications: Some medications, including anti-nausea drugs, antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, and cold and allergy medications that contain sedating antihistamines, may aggravate symptoms.

UR Medicine's Treatments for Restless Leg Syndrome

How Is Restless Leg Syndrome Diagnosed?

While there is no specific test for RLS, we start with clinical consultations and neuropsychological testing services to diagnose your condition.

Diagnosis is based on:

Medical history
Physical and neurological exams
Blood tests

How Is Restless Leg Syndrome Treated?

Treatment for RLS focuses on relieving symptoms. Options include:

Lifestyle changes
Medications
Iron supplements

What Sets Us Apart?

Our team combines all the needed experts for complete diagnosis and treatment, including board-certified adult neurologists, child neurologists with additional training in movement disorders, neuropalliative care specialists, neuropsychologists, nurses and nurse practitioners, and social workers. We actively partner with clinical, education, and research partners of other divisions within the department of neurology.

Our specialized treatment approaches include Deep Brain Stimulation, Botulinum toxin therapy, continuous levodopa infusion therapy, and other cutting-edge options. We also offer clinical services via telemedicine.

UR Medicine Neurology is a recognized leader for developing superior clinicians and scientists and has developed a national reputation for excellence in residency training in adult and child neurology and numerous subspecialties. The department is rich with dedicated faculty, an outstanding blend of academic and clinical training, exposure to nationally recognized specialists and a supportive environment provide residents with the opportunity to truly excel in their fields.