Nocturnal myoclonus; RLS; Akathisia

There is no known cure for restless leg syndrome.

Treatment is aimed at reducing stress and helping the muscles relax. The following techniques may help:

• Warm baths
• Gentle stretching exercises
• Massage

Low doses of pramipexole or ropinirole (Requip) can be very effective at controlling symptoms in some people.

If your sleep is severely disrupted, your health care provider may prescribe medications such as Sinemet (an anti-Parkinson's medication), gabapentin and pregabalin, or tranquilizers such as clonazepam. However, these medications may cause daytime sleepiness.

Patients with iron deficiency will receive iron supplements.

Low doses of narcotics may sometimes relieve symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

Restless leg syndrome is not dangerous or life-threatening, and it is not a sign of a serious disorder. However, it can be uncomfortable and disrupt your sleep.

Insomnia may occur.

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:

• You have symptoms of restless leg syndrome
• Your sleep is disrupted

Images

Superficial anterior muscles

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Restless leg syndrome Symptoms

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Restless leg syndrome Prevention

Review Date: 08/28/2009
Reviewed By: Luc Jasmin, MD, PhD, Departments of Anatomy Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)