What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a problem that up to 10% of the US population experiences that causes a strong urge to move your legs. RLS is a recognized neurological disorder that can interfere with resting or falling asleep.

If you have restless leg syndrome, a typical night might go like this: You lie down in bed, ready to go to sleep, and just as your body begins to relax, an uncomfortable feeling begins to overwhelm your legs. You try to ignore the tingling or itching in your legs, hoping it will go away, but it only gets worse. You toss and turn for a while, but eventually the urge to move is too much. You get out of bed to stretch and pace the floor and, for a moment, you find relief. But when you lie down again, the restless sensations in your legs start all over again.