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Heidbreder A, Trenkwalder C, Bachmann CG, Bartl M, Fulda S, Habersack L, Maihöfner C, Mathis J, Muntean L, Schneider B, Stefani A, Paulus J, Young P. Restless Legs Syndrom. SOMNOLOGIE 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s11818-023-00399-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
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Akbaş P, Yaman Sözbir Ş. Non-pharmacological methods used in coping with restless leg syndrome (RLS): A systematic review. Sleep Biol Rhythms 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s41105-021-00322-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Lv Q, Wang X, Asakawa T, Wang XP. Pharmacologic Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 19:372-382. [PMID: 33380302 PMCID: PMC8033969 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666201230150127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Restless legs syndrome (RLS)/Willis-Ekbom disease is a neurologic disorder characterized by a strong desire to move when at rest (usually in the evening) and paraesthesia in their lower legs. The most widely used therapies for first-line treatment of RLS are dopaminergic drugs; however, their long-term use can lead to augmentation. α2δ Ligands, opioids, iron, glutamatergic drugs, adenosine, and sleep aids have been investigated as alternatives. The pathogenesis of RLS is not well understood. Despite the efficacy of dopaminergic drugs in the treatment of this disorder, unlike in Parkinson's disease dopaminergic cell loss in the substantia nigra has not been observed in RLS. The etiology of RLS is likely complex, involving multiple neural pathways. RLS-related genes identified in genome-wide association studies can provide insight into the mechanistic basis and pathophysiology of RLS. Here we review the current treatments and knowledge of the mechanisms underlying RLS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tetsuya Asakawa
- Address correspondence to these authors at the Department of Neurology, TongRen Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1111 Xianxia Road, 200336, Shanghai, China; Tel: +86-021-52039999-72223; Fax: +86-021-52039999-72223; E-mail: and Department of Neurosurgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Handayama, 1-20-1, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan; Tel: + 81-53-435-2283; Fax: + 81-53-435-2282;, E-mail:
| | - Xiao Ping Wang
- Address correspondence to these authors at the Department of Neurology, TongRen Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, No.1111 Xianxia Road, 200336, Shanghai, China; Tel: +86-021-52039999-72223; Fax: +86-021-52039999-72223; E-mail: and Department of Neurosurgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Handayama, 1-20-1, Higashi-ku, Hamamatsu-city, Shizuoka 431-3192, Japan; Tel: + 81-53-435-2283; Fax: + 81-53-435-2282;, E-mail:
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Guay A, Houle M, O'Shaughnessy J, Descarreaux M. Current Evidence on Diagnostic Criteria, Relevant Outcome Measures, and Efficacy of Nonpharmacologic Therapy in the Management of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A Scoping Review. J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2020; 43:930-941. [PMID: 32900545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this scoping review is to outline the current evidence regarding the management of restless legs syndrome (RLS) with nonpharmacologic approaches. To categorize the efficacy of conservative approaches in reducing symptoms of RLS, we have identified and summarized the current data regarding diagnostic criteria and relevant outcome measures, to inform future research and to guide clinical practice. METHODS A scoping review was conducted using the National Center for Biotechnology Information; EBSCO; the Manual, Alternative and Natural Therapy Index System; the Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature; and Scopus. All literature related to RLS was extracted, screened, and reviewed based on titles and abstract contents. The authors then extracted data from the 24 admissible studies, that is, the ones about manual therapy, exercises, and alternative treatments for RLS. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale was used to rate the methodological quality of the included randomized controlled trials by 2 independent readers. RESULTS In the 24 articles fulfilling the selection criteria, there was a consistent trend in the findings showing positive results in lowering RLS symptom severity. Most clinical studies based their diagnosis on the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group diagnostic criteria; the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group rating scale was the most often used outcome measure. The efficacy of exercise, yoga, massage, acupuncture, traction straight leg raise, cryotherapy, pneumatic compression devices, whole-body vibration, transcranial and transcutaneous stimulation, and near-infrared lights showed different effects on RLS symptom severity, and the level of evidence was evaluated. CONCLUSION Our results showed clinically significant effects for exercises, acupuncture, pneumatic compression devices, and near-infrared light. Short-lasting effects were identified with whole-body cryotherapy, repetitive transcranial stimulation, and transcutaneous stimulation. More studies are necessary to investigate efficacy of yoga, massage, traction straight leg raise, and whole-body vibration. No adverse effects were identified for moderate-intensity exercise, yoga, massage, and pneumatic compression devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexe Guay
- Département des Sciences de l'Activité Physique, University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Mariève Houle
- Département des Sciences de l'Activité Physique, University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Julie O'Shaughnessy
- Département de Chiropratique, University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Martin Descarreaux
- Département des Sciences de l'Activité Physique, University of Quebec at Trois-Rivieres, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada.
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Mohammadi MM, Raygani AAV, Ghobadi A, Samadzadeh S, Salari N. Effect of Near-Infrared Light Therapy Based on Acupoints on the Severity of Restless Legs Syndrome in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: A Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial. Clin Med Res 2018; 16:1-8. [PMID: 29776916 PMCID: PMC6108511 DOI: 10.3121/cmr.2018.1389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common disorder in hemodialysis patients. The present study was conducted to determine the effect of near-infrared (NIR) light therapy given to acupoints on the severity of RLS in patients undergoing hemodialysis. METHODS This single-blind, randomized controlled trial was performed on 60 hemodialysis patients with RLS. Participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 30) or a control group (n = 30). Data were collected using the International Restless Legs Syndrome Rating Scale (IRLSRS) and demographic information questionnaire. The intervention group received 12 sessions of NIR light therapy (940 nm) to acupoints in the legs and feet during hemodialysis three times a week, while the control group received sham treatment. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 software. RESULTS The results indicated that there were statistically and clinically significant differences between the intervention and control groups at the end of the intervention sessions (P < 0.001, mean difference [MD] = 3.8). However, after the treatment was discontinued, the difference was not clinically significant (MD = 2.4). In the within-group compression, the mean RLS scores of the intervention group decreased significantly during the intervention sessions (MD = 3.2, P < 0.001); however, after the treatment was discontinued, the difference was not clinically significant (MD = 1.67). CONCLUSION The present study showed that the application of NIR light to acupoints in the legs and feet was as an effective treatment for attenuating the symptoms of RLS in hemodialysis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mehdi Mohammadi
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Students Research Committee, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Ali Akbar Vaisi Raygani
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran. ghobadi57.
| | - Akram Ghobadi
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran. ghobadi57. . ghobadi57
| | - Soheila Samadzadeh
- Rehabilitation and Sport Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| | - Nader Salari
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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Complementary and alternative therapies for restless legs syndrome: An evidence-based systematic review. Sleep Med Rev 2018; 38:158-167. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 06/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Harrison EG, Keating JL, Morgan PE. Non-pharmacological interventions for restless legs syndrome: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. Disabil Rehabil 2018; 41:2006-2014. [PMID: 29561180 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1453875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder characterised by an uncomfortable urge to move the legs. Management is primarily pharmacological. Effects for non-pharmacological, non-surgical options are published but lack systematic examination. Objectives: To synthesise results of non-pharmacological/non-surgical treatment compared to no-treatment controls or alternative treatment for RLS on any relevant outcome. Methods: Databases and reference lists of reviews were searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing non-pharmacological treatment to alternative or no treatment controls for idiopathic RLS. Search results were independently screened for inclusion by two researchers; disagreements regarding eligibility were resolved with discussion. Outcomes were summarised, and pooled where possible in meta-analysis. Results: The search yielded 442 articles. Eleven trials met inclusion criteria. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, exercise, compression devices, counterstrain manipulation, infrared therapy, and standard acupuncture were significantly more effective for RLS severity than control conditions. Vibration pads, cryotherapy, and transcranial direct current stimulation were ineffective in reducing RLS severity. Vibration pads, cryotherapy, yoga, compression devices, and acupuncture significantly improved some sleep-related outcomes. Conclusions: Few studies were identified and quality of evidence was not high. Some non-pharmacological interventions may be beneficial for reducing RLS severity and enhancing sleep. Implications for Rehabilitation The current management of restless leg syndrome is primarily pharmacological, and medications can have unwanted side effects. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, exercise, compression devices, counterstrain manipulation, infrared therapy, and standard acupuncture may reduce restless leg syndrome severity. Vibration pads, cryotherapy, yoga, compression devices, and acupuncture may improve some sleep-related outcomes in restless leg syndrome. Non-pharmacological interventions for RLS may cause placebo effects and rehabilitation professionals should control for this possibility in future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eloise G Harrison
- a Department of Physiotherapy , Monash University , Frankston , Australia
| | - Jennifer L Keating
- a Department of Physiotherapy , Monash University , Frankston , Australia
| | - Prue E Morgan
- a Department of Physiotherapy , Monash University , Frankston , Australia
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Mitchell UH, Hilton SC, Hunsaker E, Ulfberg J. Decreased Symptoms without Augmented Skin Blood Flow in Subjects with RLS/WED after Vibration Treatment. J Clin Sleep Med 2016; 12:947-52. [PMID: 27070250 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.5920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES Vascular disturbances leading to tissue hypoxia have been named as a possible cause for RLS/WED. Vibration to the whole body (WBV) in subjects with RLS/WED results in increased skin blood flow (SBF). The aims of this investigation were to (1) determine if a two-week treatment with WBV will decrease symptoms associated with RLS/WED and, (2) if so, determine if the mechanism for improvement in symptoms is related to an increase in SBF, as measured in flux. METHODS Eleven subjects with RLS/WED underwent 2 weeks of 14-minute intermittent WBV and a 2-week sham treatment in randomized order. Pre and post intervention RLS symptom severity were compared. Baseline SBF was compared between subjects with RLS/WED and an age- and sex-matched control group. A crossover design (aim 1) and a matched case-control design and repeated measures design (aim 2) were used. The data analyses consisted of 2-sample and paired t-tests; where applicable we used a standard crossover design adjustment. RESULTS WBV did significantly decrease symptoms associated with RLS/WED compared to baseline data and compared to sham treatment. The baseline flux was significantly lower in RLS/WED subjects than matched controls, but this deficit was negated with WBV. There was no increase in resting SBF over the 2 weeks of treatment. CONCLUSIONS Subjects with RLS/WED have decreased SBF but are able to increase flux to the same level as normal subjects with WBV. A 2-week intervention with WBV decreases symptoms associated with RLS/WED, but this does not seem to be related to an increase in resting SBF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike H Mitchell
- Department of Exercise Sciences; Brigham Young University, Provo, UT
| | - Sterling C Hilton
- Department of Educational Leadership and Foundations; Brigham Young University, Provo, UT
| | - Erik Hunsaker
- Department of Exercise Sciences; Brigham Young University, Provo, UT
| | - Jan Ulfberg
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Bega D, Malkani R. Alternative treatment of restless legs syndrome: an overview of the evidence for mind–body interventions, lifestyle interventions, and neutraceuticals. Sleep Med 2016; 17:99-105. [PMID: 26847981 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2015.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Mitchell UH. Medical devices for restless legs syndrome - clinical utility of the Relaxis pad. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2015; 11:1789-94. [PMID: 26664128 PMCID: PMC4671777 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s87208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Restless Legs Syndrome or Willis–Ekbom Disease, a neurosensory disorder, can be treated with pharmaceuticals or conservatively. This review focuses on conservative treatments, more specifically on treatments with medical devices. Two modes of action, enhancement of circulation and counter stimulation, are introduced. Medical devices that use enhancement of circulation as their mechanism of action are whole body vibration, pneumatic compression, and near-infrared light. Medical devices that use counter stimulation include transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation and the vibration Relaxis pad. The clinical utility of the Relaxis pad and its place in therapy is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike H Mitchell
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
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Sharon D. Nonpharmacologic Management of Restless Legs Syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease). Sleep Med Clin 2015; 10:263-78, xiii. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2015.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Efficacy of Sildenafil in a Patient With Restless Legs Syndrome/Willis-Ekbom Disease. Clin Neuropharmacol 2015; 38:67-8. [DOI: 10.1097/wnf.0000000000000072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Picchietti DL, Hensley JG, Bainbridge JL, Lee KA, Manconi M, McGregor JA, Silver RM, Trenkwalder C, Walters AS. Consensus clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of restless legs syndrome/Willis-Ekbom disease during pregnancy and lactation. Sleep Med Rev 2014; 22:64-77. [PMID: 25553600 DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2014.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2014] [Revised: 10/27/2014] [Accepted: 10/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Restless legs syndrome (RLS)/Willis-Ekbom disease (WED) is common during pregnancy, affecting approximately one in five pregnant women in Western countries. Many report moderate or severe symptoms and negative impact on sleep. There is very little information in the medical literature for practitioners on the management of this condition during pregnancy. Accordingly, a task force was chosen by the International RLS Study Group (IRLSSG) to develop guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of RLS/WED during pregnancy and lactation. A committee of nine experts in RLS/WED and/or obstetrics developed a set of 12 consensus questions, conducted a literature search, and extensively discussed potential guidelines. Recommendations were approved by the IRLSSG executive committee, reviewed by IRLSSG membership, and approved by the WED Foundation Medical Advisory Board. These guidelines address diagnosis, differential diagnosis, clinical course, and severity assessment of RLS/WED during pregnancy and lactation. Nonpharmacologic approaches, including reassurance, exercise and avoidance of exacerbating factors, are outlined. A rationale for iron supplementation is presented. Medications for RLS/WED are risk/benefit rated for use during pregnancy and lactation. A few are rated "may be considered" when RLS/WED is refractory to more conservative approaches. An algorithm summarizes the recommendations. These guidelines are intended to improve clinical practice and promote further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel L Picchietti
- University of Illinois College of Medicine at Urbana-Champaign and Carle Foundation Hospital, Urbana, IL, USA.
| | | | - Jacquelyn L Bainbridge
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Department of Neurology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Kathryn A Lee
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Mauro Manconi
- Sleep and Epilepsy Center, Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland, Civic Hospital of Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - James A McGregor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's and Children's Hospital, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Robert M Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Claudia Trenkwalder
- Paracelsus-Elena Hospital, Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders, Kassel, Germany; Department of Neurosurgery, University Medical Center, Goettingen, Germany
| | - Arthur S Walters
- Department of Neurology Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
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Garcia-Borreguero D, Ferini-Strambi L, Kohnen R, O'Keeffe S, Trenkwalder C, Högl B, Benes H, Jennum P, Partinen M, Fer D, Montagna P, Bassetti CL, Iranzo A, Sonka K, Williams AM. European guidelines on management of restless legs syndrome: report of a joint task force by the European Federation of Neurological Societies, the European Neurological Society and the European Sleep Research Society. Eur J Neurol 2012; 19:1385-96. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-1331.2012.03853.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ralf Kohnen
- RPS Research Germany and Psychology Department; University Erlangen-Nuremberg; Nuremberg Germany
| | - Shaun O'Keeffe
- Department of Geriatric Medicine; Galway University Hospitals; Galway Ireland
| | - Claudia Trenkwalder
- Paracelsus-Elena Klinik; Center of Parkinsonism and Movement Disorders; Kassel Germany
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology; University of Goettingen; Kassel Germany
| | - Birgit Högl
- Department of Neurology; Innsbruck Medical University; Innsbruck Austria
| | - Heike Benes
- Somni Bene Institute for Medical Research and Sleep Medicine, and Neurology Department; University of Rostock; Schwerin Germany
| | - Poul Jennum
- Danish Center for Sleep Medicine; Glostrup Hospital, and Center for Healthy Aging; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - Markku Partinen
- Helsinki Sleep Clinic; Vitalmed Research Centre; Helsinki Finland
| | | | - Pasquale Montagna
- Department of Neurological Sciences; University of Bologna; Bologna Italy
| | - Claudio L. Bassetti
- Department of Neurology; University Hospital (Inselspital), Bern, and Neurocenter of Southern Switzerland; Lugano Switzerland
| | - Alex Iranzo
- Neurology Service and Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit; Hospital Clinic; Barcelona Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED); Barcelona Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS); Barcelona Spain
| | - Karel Sonka
- Department of Neurology; First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University; Prague Czech Republic
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Yeh P, Walters AS, Tsuang JW. Restless legs syndrome: a comprehensive overview on its epidemiology, risk factors, and treatment. Sleep Breath 2011; 16:987-1007. [PMID: 22038683 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-011-0606-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2011] [Revised: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSES Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is underdiagnosed and poorly understood by clinicians and the general public alike; accordingly, a broad literature review with information most relevant to general practice is needed to help dispel misconceptions and improve level of care. METHODS Specifically, this review comprehensively provides an epidemiological analysis of RLS and examines the risk factors and treatment options for RLS by compiling the findings of past RLS studies. These RLS studies were identified through a retrospective PubMed search. The epidemiological analysis was conducted by calculating a weighted mean average of all the relevant general population RLS prevalence studies, separated into geographical/racial categories. RESULTS A comprehensive analysis of RLS epidemiological studies finds the prevalence rate of RLS to be 5-15% in the general population with 2.5% of adults having symptoms severe enough to require medical intervention. Some of the risk factors for RLS include female gender, pregnancy, low iron levels, lower socioeconomic status, poor health, elderly age, comorbidity with Parkinson's disease, positive family history of RLS, and comorbidity with psychiatric disorders. A wide array of treatment options exist for RLS including pharmacological and nonpharmacologic interventions. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians' understanding of RLS enigma has recently improved due to the increased intensity of RLS research over the past decade. This review summarizes the current findings in the RLS field as well as providing guidelines for future RLS-related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Yeh
- Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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Mitchell UH. Nondrug-related aspect of treating Ekbom disease, formerly known as restless legs syndrome. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2011; 7:251-7. [PMID: 21654870 PMCID: PMC3101885 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s19177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ekbom disease (EKD), formerly known as restless legs syndrome (RLS) has affected and bothered many people over the centuries. It is one of the most prevalent neurological disorders in Europe and North-America, affecting about 10% of the population. The main characteristics are the strong urge to move, accompanied or caused by uncomfortable, sometimes even distressing, paresthesia of the legs, described as a "creeping, tugging, pulling" feeling. The symptoms often become worse as the day progresses, leading to sleep disturbances or sleep deprivation, which leads to decreased alertness and daytime functions. Numerous studies have been conducted assessing the efficacy of dopaminergic drugs, opioids, and other pharmacologic agents in alleviating EKD symptoms. However, there is also a growing body of evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of nonpharmacologic treatments including life style changes, physical activity programs, pneumatic compression, massage, near-infrared light therapy, and complementary therapies. The working mechanisms behind these alternatives are diverse. Some increase blood flow to the legs, therefore reducing tissue hypoxia; some introduce an afferent counter stimulus to the cortex and with that "close the gate" for aberrant nerve stimulations; some increase dopamine and nitric oxide and therefore augment bio-available neurotransmitters; and some generate endorphins producing an analgesic effect. The advantages of these treatments compared with pharmacologic agents include less or no side effects, no danger of augmentation, and less cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike H Mitchell
- Department of Exercise Sciences, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
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