Restless Legs Syndrome Overview
What is the Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
The very first clinical description of the Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) condition was written in 1672 by Sir Thomas Willis, a prominent British physician and anatomist. Willis noted a strange "restlessness" that plagued certain patients as they tried to sleep. Willis' clinical observations went unheeded by the mainstream medical fraternity for centuries. RLS was first defined as a distinct clinical entity in 1945 by Karl Ekbom and is also known as Willis-Ekbom Disease (see "restless legs syndrome" in Wikipedia). RLS is a neurological movement disorder that occurs during wakefulness but is classified as a sleep disorder. That is because RLS primarily occurs in the nighttime when a person is trying to fall asleep. RLS often starts when you're resting, lying down or sitting for a long time. For a comprehensive list of RLS symptoms visit the "Symptoms" page.
(For more information on symptoms of RLS, see the Healthdirect site) .
Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) symptoms
RLS is characterized by an overwhelming (can be distressing) uncomfortable feeling inside the legs (not on the skin) that is ameliorated by moving the legs. Post movement the uncomfortable sensation in the legs returns gradually increasing in intensity until there is an irresistible urge to move the legs again. Then the cycle of uncomfortable feelings and movement repeats. The sensation in the legs can be difficult to describe. For comprehensive information on RLS symptoms see the "Symptoms" page.
Causes of the Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Often there is no known cause for RLS. Biological factors that can result in RLS are:
-
Low iron
-
Decreased dopamine
-
Too much glutamate.
-
RLS may be related to a dysfunction in the basal ganglia (a part of the brain that controls movement).
A number of medical conditions are associated with RLS, these include:
For in depth information on the Causes of RLS see the Causes page. A number of common medications including antihistamines, antidepressants (like SSRIs/SNRIs), antipsychotics, beta blockers and lithium are also known to cause / worsen RLS. For a detailed review of medications causing RLS see "Medications that worsen RLS" page. For more information, see the description of RLS from the Brain Foundation and from the Sleep Health Foundation.
Diagnosing the Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
There is no blood test, or any other physical test for that matter, to diagnose RLS. A doctor will rely on clinical factors to make a diagnosis. Typically a doctor will order a blood test for ferritin (Iron) levels and to check kidney function, blood sugar (to rule out diabetic neuropathy) and thyroid function. The doctor will ask about medication(s) being taken. Your primary care doctor (GP) usually can diagnose and treat RLS. However, they may suggest that you see a sleep specialist or neurologist. For a detailed discussion on the diagnosis of RLS see the "Diagnosis" page.
For more information, see the description of RLS diagnosis from the Sleep Health Foundation.
The Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) in children
About 2% to 4% of children have clinically significant RLS. Diagnosing RLS in children is difficult as it may be hard for a child to describe their symptoms. Sometimes RLS in children is misdiagnosed as "growing pains" or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For a more comprehensive outline of RLS in children see the "Children" page
For more information, see the diagnosis section of RLS from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Prevalence of the Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Estimates suggest that 5% to 12% of adults worldwide experience some form of RLS. When RLS symptoms are defined as occurring at least twice a week with moderate-to-severe distress, the prevalence is lower (approximately 2% to 3%). For further details on the prevalence of RLS see the "Prevalence" page.
Treatments for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
There's no cure for RLS but available treatment can manage the symptoms. Iron plays a key role in RLS. A low iron results in lower dopamine causing RLS. The good news is that treatments for RLS are available (see the "Treatments" page).
There are some non pharmacological strategies (see Getting Relief page) that can be used to counteract the "creepy crawly" sensations. Leg stretches, walking, squats, massaging the legs, a warm bath (with epsom salts), heat or ice packs and leg vibration devices can all reduce the acute symptoms of RLS. Lifestyle adjustments such as reducing smoking (as it is a stimulant), cutting down on alcohol (as it disrupts the circadian rhythm) and last coffee at midday (it is a stimulant). Also good sleep hygiene such as regular bed and wake times and getting enough sleep (at least 7-hours) can improve RLS. Engaging in mental puzzles may distract the central nervous system. Moderate exercise (such as walking or yoga) during the day may help RLS symptoms. Vigorous exercise in the evening may worsen RLS.
What vitamins affect the Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)?
As discussed above in the treatment section, low iron levels are associated with RLS. If you are experiencing RLS an iron studies blood test is recommended. If iron levels are low then supplemental iron should be considered in conjunction with your Doctor.
Low vitamin B12, magnesium, vitamin D and vitamin C have all been identified as possible contributors to RLS. . However, further evidence is required. (For an in depth discussion of vitamins in RLS see "Vitamins" page).
Last reviewed: 04/08/2026