RLS Facts

This website and educational materials are provided for information purposes only; please read our medical disclaimer statement for more details.

Primary Features of RLS

An urge to move, usually due to uncomfortable sensations that occur primarily in the legs
Motor restlessness, expressed as activity, that relieves the urge to move
Worsening of symptoms by relaxation
Variability over the course of the day-night cycle, with symptoms worse in the evening and early in the night

Associated Features of RLS

Periodic limb movements in sleep
Sleep disturbance especially difficulty in sleep initiation
Dyskinesias while awake that occur almost exclusively at rest
Positive family history
Exclusion of potential underlying causes of RLS
Onset at any age with typically chronic and progressive course and occasional remissions

Information for Patients and Family Members

Living with Restless Legs Syndrome – This brochure provides a good introduction to RLS and is written for patients. It is available in English, French, German, Icelandic, Italian, and Spanish. You may download a PDF (see the list below).

Information for Healthcare Providers

RLS Medical Bulletin – Approved and reviewed by the RLS Foundation’s Medical Advisory Board, this comprehensive resource discusses prevalence, pathophysiology, genetics, diagnosis, treatment, and special concerns for patients with RLS.

For More Information

Please contact the RLS Foundation for more information on their publications and resources for patients and healthcare providers.
http://www.rls.org/

Medical Disclaimer

This website is designed to provide information about the current understanding of RLS. Laypeople who read this information are warned against making any changes in their treatment based on this information without consulting their healthcare provider. While the IRLSSG and the RLS Foundation have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information, medical knowledge changes quickly and therefore practitioners are urged to continually seek up-to-date information. Some treatments discussed in these materials, while in line with accepted medical practice, may not be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the described uses. The RLS Foundation and the IRLSSG, their officers, directors, employees or agents, do not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of its information or services and specifically disclaims any liability therefore. Back to top.