Periodic Limb Movements (PLMS) are characterized by hundreds of repeated kicking or jerking movements of the legs or arms during sleep. Each movement may result in a brief awakening, fragmenting sleep

Periodic Leg Movements with arousal from sleep.

and leading to difficulty staying asleep. Severe repeated awakenings can result in significant daytime sleepiness.

Restless Leg Syndrome is a related condition, characterized by bothersome sensations of the legs and feet while at rest. People commonly describe "creepy crawly" or "ants in the pants" feelings, that are only relieved by walking around.

PLMS are more common in the elderly, with up to 30% of those between 50 and 65 years of age, and 50% of people over age 65 having symptoms. Restless Legs can affect 10 to15% of the population. Restless Legs Syndrome appears to be inherited in approximately 30% of patients.

While the cause of Restless Legs is not known, but there are certain circumstances or conditions that seem to be related, including nerve problems, poor circulation, iron deficiency anemia, kidney disorders, alcoholism, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Symptoms are often aggravated by caffeine, temperature extremes, fatigue and smoking. Individuals requiring kidney dialysis are often affected as well. The same related conditions seem to associate with Periodic Limb Movement Disorder. Patients who take anti-depressant medications often describe a worsening of the condition.

Treatment involves various prescribed medications that inhibit the brain arousal or awakenings due to the movements, or medications that seem to decrease the intensity of the movements. A sleep study is not usually required to evaluate this condition. However, it may be detected during a recording performed for another diagnosis.

For a consultation with one of our sleep physicians, please call the Sleep Center at 561-744-4478.