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Periodic limb movements and restless leg syndrome One common sleep disorder involves periodic limb movements. This disorder is characterized by arm or, more commonly, leg movements that “jerk” during sleep; for this reason, it is often called "restless leg syndrome." Patients with this disorder commonly complain of an irresistible urge to move an arm or leg, often due to pains, aches, or even “creeping or crawling” sensations that force them to twitch to alleviate the discomfort. Patients often get out of bed many times during the night to stretch or walk off the sensations. This in itself causes disruption in the sleep schedule that can lead to sleepiness and stress. Periodic limb movements need to be evaluated and treated by a physician trained in sleep and sleep disorders. The cause of this disorder is largely unknown, but periodic limb movements and restless leg syndrome are more common in people with anemia, diabetes, renal failure, and certain neurological disorders. Treatment typically consists of medication to alleviate the symptoms causing discomfort. For more information on the Internet, try the Restless Leg Syndrome site.
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