What is Periodic Limb Movement Disorder(PLMD)

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Repeated body movements characterize periodic limb movement disorder. These movements may occur in the toes, feet, ankles and/or legs, during sleep. A person may be unaware of these movements during sleep, but a sleep partner may notice them.

PLMD becomes more common as people age – around 34% of people over the age of 60 have PLMD. It occurs in men and women equally. This disorder is not very common in people under 30 years of age. Many people with PLMD also have Restless Legs Syndrome. There are two kinds of Periodic Limb Movement Disorders primary and secondary.

Primary PLMD is when there’s no known cause, while secondary PLMD is the result of another medical issue, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, anemia, and narcolepsy. Someone who suffers from PLMD may not know they’re doing it, since it occurs during sleep.

It’s usually pointed out by a sleeping partner or sleep study expert, who notes that the sufferer jerks their knees and legs, or thrashes around while sleeping for a couple of seconds. Although the person may sleep through it, their deep sleep is disrupted, resulting in daytime drowsiness.

The first step in treating any sleep disorder is to ascertain any underlying causes. Anemia, diabetes, or the use of certain antidepressants can contribute to leg movements. Often treatment of these underlying problems can relieve the symptoms of PLMD.

There’s no cure for PLMD, but many medications work to suppress involuntary muscle movements.To date, drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease seem to be the most effective – they treat both the movements and the insomnia. Drugs such as Sinemet (carbidopa or levodopa) and Mirapex (pramipexole dihydrochloride) are commonly used in this regard. Their side effects are minimal. However, the effects of long-term use in younger adults are unknown.

If you have secondary PLMD, then your symptoms may disappear for good once the underlying medical condition improves. If you’re dealing with primary PLMD, then you may see symptoms return periodically even after they’re under control.

You might be able to get relief without medicating yourself by trying simple relaxation techniques and optimizing your sleep environment. A combination of therapies could help banish the restlessness in your limbs for good!