Also known as Nocturnal Myoclonus, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder is another disorder that affects the limb as well as a person’s ability to sleep at night and function normally during the day. While the movements of Restless Leg Syndrome are a voluntary response to uncomfortable feelings in the limbs while awake, the movements of Periodic Limb Movement Disorder occur most often when a person is asleep and are involuntary.

Periodic limb movements usually occur in the legs, but may also affect the arms. The movements occur at regular intervals, and are sometimes similar to jerking or kicking. The leg movements may be accompanied by very brief awakenings that create an overall feeling of a poor night’s sleep. Periodic limb movements may also awaken your bed partner as a result of their being kicked, or the bed covers being twisted or knocked off the bed.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Though the cause of Periodic Limb Movement Disorder is not known, there are some links to heredity and to medical causes such as iron deficiency anemia, poor blood circulation in the legs, nerve problems, muscle disorders, kidney disorders, alcoholism, and vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Other factors that may trigger Periodic Limb Movement Disorder include starting or stopping certain medications, caffeine consumption, smoking, fatigue, hot temperatures or extended time in cold temperatures.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder often requires more extensive study to make a proper diagnosis. People with Periodic Limb Movement Disorder usually do not feel their nighttime movements and may complain only of restless sleep or excessive daytime sleepiness. If you suspect this, you should have a sleep study done at a Sleep Disorders Center.

There are some prescription medications for treating Periodic Limb Movement Disorder, but improved sleep hygiene is also an effective treatment.