RLS is a common condition—characterized by unpleasant limb sensations precipitated by rest and relieved by activity—and may afflict up to 10 to 15 percent of the population. Symptoms are worse during the evening and may result in insomnia. It is often misdiagnosed, and patients report an average 2 years’ delay in the correct diagnosis after they have sought medical attention. Although the condition can develop in patients of any age, about 40 percent of patients recall symptoms before the age of 20 years. The symptoms tend to worsen with age although there may be periods of remission.

The discomfort is often difficult for patients to describe, but they usually characterize it as a deep-seated, creeping, crawling, jittery, tingling, burning, or aching sensation. These unpleasant sensations worsen while a person is lying or sitting and are relieved, at least temporarily, by activity or movement. Jiggling the legs, pacing the floor, exercising, massaging the legs, or taking hot baths may help.

A family history of RLS is common. Some cases are associated with pregnancy, peripheral neuropathy, lumbosacral radiculopathies, myelopathies, Parkinson’s disease, hematological conditions, iron deficiency anemia, chronic renal failure, folate and vitamin B deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, and medications, such as tricyclic antidepressants.

Treatment usually includes reduction or elimination of caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, coupled with an effective medication, such as carbidopa-levodopa, dopamine agonists, opioids, henzodiazepines, anticonvulsants, or clonidine hydrochloride.