Table 1.

Clinical features of the restless legs syndrome (RLS) in adults^a (Walters 1995; Allen et al 2003)

Diagnostic features An urge to move the legs, usually accompanied or caused by uncomfortable and unpleasant sensations in the legs The urge to move or unpleasant sensations begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity such as lying or sitting The urge to move or unpleasant sensations are partially or totally relieved by movement, such as walking or stretching The urge to move or unpleasant sensations are worse in the evening or night than during the day or occur only in the evening or night

Supportive clinical features Positive family history Positive response to dopaminergic therapy Presence of periodic limb movements (during wakefulness or sleep)

Associated features of RLS Variable clinical course, but typically chronic and often progressive Physical examination normal in idiopathic–familial forms Sleep disturbance is a common complaint in more affected patients

^aDiagnostic features are those mandatory for a definite clinical diagnosis. Supportive clinical features are those which may increase the probability of a diagnosis in doubtful cases, such as is common in children. Associated features are typical, but do not contribute to diagnosis.