Restless legs syndrome in children

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a condition that is characterised by an irresistible urge to move one's legs, and is fairly common in children and teenagers. RLS results from an internal feeling of itching or creeping sensation in the legs, which forces the affected person to move their legs to get relief. It usually occurs at the end of the day in bed or when seated, and thus is one of the main causes for insomnia and other sleep disorders. It is believed to be a neurologic disorder. Researchers from the University of Illinois in Urbana analysed data from 10,523 families who were surveyed for RLS symptoms. The prevalence and impact of RLS was noticed in two age groups: 8-11 years and 12-17 years. It was found that about 2 per cent of 8-11 year olds and 2 per cent of 12-17 year olds had RLS, based on standard National Institutes of Health criteria. Moderate to severe RLS occurring at least twice a week was reported by 0.5 per cent of patients in the younger group and by 1 per cent in the older group. Boys and girls were about equally affected, and RLS seemed to be connected to growing pains. It was also found that more than 70 per cent of affected children had at least one parent with RLS, and in 16 per cent both parents had RLS. Half of the affected children reported that RLS adversely affected their mood. The findings, thus, suggest that restless legs syndrome is prevalent and troublesome in children and adolescents, occurring more commonly than epilepsy or diabetes. Research is ongoing to better understand the causes of RLS and to develop better treatments.