Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD)

What is PLMD

Simple, repetitive, uncontrollable and often imperceptive muscle movements that occur while your body is at rest. These muscle spasms happen in intervals anywhere from 20 to 40 seconds apart, usually during non-REM sleep.

Signs and Symptoms of PLMD

Brief muscle twitches, jerking movements or an upward flexing of the feet.

Health Risks

PLMs alone rarely cause other medical problems, but it can be a factor in other sleep disorders like insomnia and narcolepsy.

Treatment Options

PLMD is often treated with anti-Parkinson's medication, such as anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines and narcotic pain killers.