Restless leg syndrome

Alternative names:

nocturnal myoclonus; RLS

Treatment:

There is no known cure for RLS.

Minimizing stress and promoting muscle relaxation are often helpful in reducing episodes of RLS. Warm baths, gentle stretching exercises, massage, or similar techniques may promote muscle relaxation. If sleep is severely disrupted, medications such as Sinemet (an anti-Parkinson's medication) or tranquilizers such as clonazepam may be helpful to some people, but they may worsen daytime sleepiness in other people. Sometimes low doses of narcotics will relieve symptoms of RLS.

Expectations (prognosis):

The disorder is not dangerous or life threatening and does not indicate a serious disorder. It can be uncomfortable and can disrupt sleep.

Complications:

Insomnia can occur.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of restless leg syndrome are present and sleep is disrupted.