Restless Leg Syndrome

 

Restless Leg Syndrome is often referred to as ""Jimmy Legs"" because of the uncontrollable urge to move the limbs in order to stop uncomfortable painful or odd sensations most commonly in the legs. Sometimes moving or stretching the legs provides relief temporarily but may return immediately after ceasing movement. RLS can start at any age, even childhood, it can be a progressive disease for a percentage of sufferers and symptoms can disappear permanently for some.

The International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) identified four criteria that must be present for an RLS diagnosis.

1. An urge to move, usually due to uncomfortable sensations that occur primarily in the legs

People often describe them as:

  • Electrical
  • Creepy
  • Painful
  • Itchy
  • Pins & Needles
  • Creepy -Crawly
2. Motor restlessness, expressed as activity, that relieves the urge to move

Movement may bring immediate yet temporary relief by:

  • Walking
  • Stretches
  • Yoga
  • Biking

3. Worsening of symptoms by relaxation

Any type of inactivity involving

  • Sitting or lying
  • Reading a book
  • Plane ride
  • Watching TV
  • Taking a nap

Can trigger the urgency to move. This can depend on:

  • Severity of person's RLS
  • Degree of restfulness
  • Duration of inactivity

4. Variability over the course of the day-night cycle, with symptoms worse in the evening and early in the night

 

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