Restless Legs Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and Natural Approaches

Up to 10 percent of adults experience restless legs syndrome, making it the fourth leading cause of insomnia.

People with restless legs syndrome experience an irresistible urge to move their legs at night. Illustration by The Epoch Times, Shutterstock

People with restless legs syndrome experience an irresistible urge to move their legs at night. Illustration by The Epoch Times, Shutterstock

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sleep disorder that affects up to 10 percent of adults and up to 4 percent of children in the United States. This makes it the fourth leading cause of insomnia. With RLS, people have an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, along with uncomfortable sensations. This disrupts sleep and nightly rest for millions, significantly impairing quality of life.

Also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, RLS was first identified by Sir Thomas Willis in 1672, and then described in more detail and named by Karl-Axel Ekbom in 1944. Even though RLS was identified that long ago and has very peculiar symptoms, it often goes undiagnosed. Treating RLS can also be challenging, highlighting the need for greater awareness and understanding of this sleep disorder.