PLMD, or Periodic limb movement disorder, is a sleep disorder characterized by involuntary and periodic rhythmic movements of the arms or legs during sleep. However, the movement of the legs is more common than arm movement. Movements occur from time to time throughout the night and can vary in severity from night to night. The movements tend to bunch in a series of events that last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Symptoms of PLMD usually consist of twitching or jerking of the legs or arms. PLMD sufferers are often unaware of their movements. But because the movements often disrupt sleep and lead to daytime sleepiness, PLMD is considered a sleep disorder.
People with PLMS may also experience restless legs syndrome (RLS), which show similar symptoms that cause restless sleep and insomnia. The main differences between the two conditions are that restless leg syndrome occurs when the sufferer is awake or asleep and the movements are voluntary responses to the unpleasant sensations, while periodic limb movement disorder only occurs when the sufferer is asleep, and the movements are involuntary and are not consciously controlled. PLMD does not necessarily lead to RLS, but for some people PLMD may be the beginning of RLS. Both of these sleep disorders can be effectively controlled with medical treatment to help the suffer sleep better.
As with RLS, the cause of PLMD is unclear. However recent research has shown that people with a variety of medical problems, including Parkinson’s disease and narcolepsy, may have frequent periodic limb movements in sleep. PLMD may be induced by medications, especially antidepressants. It may also be linked with circulatory problems. PLMD is also often seen in patients with metabolic disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, and pregnancy.
PLMD is more common in older people – around 34% of people over age 60 have PLMD. It occurs in men and women alike. This disorder is uncommon in people under age 30. Many people with PLMD also have restless legs syndrome.
PLMD Diagnosis
The person with PLMD usually is unaware of their movements. A sleep partner may observe the occurrence of periodic limb movements, which often affect the partner before the patient knows of his or her behavior. To make a more precise diagnosis, a polysomnography is often conducted, where by the sufferer’s leg movements are recorded with a polysomnogram during an overnight test that records sleep and the bioelectrical signals coming from the body during sleep. Sensors are placed over the patient’s calf muscle to record the number of leg movements during each hour of sleep. This is called the Periodic Limb Movement index. If this index is greater than or equal to five, meaning leg movements take place at least five times an hour, then a diagnosis of PLMD is made.
PLMD Treatment
There is no cure for PLMD. However, many people with PLMD do not require treatment because they sleep soundly and do not suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness or insomnia.
As with treating any sleep disorder, the first step in treating PLMD is to rule out any underlying causes. Diabetes, anemia, or the use of certain antidepressants can worsen leg movements. Often dealing with the underlying problems can alleviate the symptoms of PLMD. Relaxation therapy and better sleep hygiene encourage good sleep in some PLMD patients. Caffeine often intensifies PLMD symptoms so foods containing caffeine, such as chocolate, coffee, tea and soft drinks, should be avoided. Vitamin and mineral supplements have shown to have some success treating PLMD, but has not been clinically proven.
There are several medications used to treat PLMD to reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with sleep disorders.
Sleeping pills prevent the sufferer from frequent awakenings, but do not suppress the leg movements. Painkillers reduce the number of leg movements, but have little effect treating insomnia. Current medical treatments include drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease, which seems to be the most effective. The drugs suppress the involuntary movements and the insomnia. Once medical treatment is started, it must be continued to provide continued relief.
Read About The Other Forms of Sleep Disorders:
Sleep Eating Disorder
Sleepwalking
Night Terrors
Sleep Talking
Snoring Problems
Sleep Attack
Shift Work Sleep Disorder
Insomnia
Sleep Apnea