PERIODIC LIMB MOVEMENT DISORDER (PLMD)
- Imtiaz Ahmad MD, MPH, FCCP
- Updated on: October 27, 2022
- November 5, 2018
- Circadian Rhythm Disorders, Restless Leg Syndrome, Sleep & Health, Sleep & Teens, Sleep & Women

Table of Contents
Periodic limb movements during sleep are common in children and adults. They involve involuntary leg or arm movements. Most often they occur in the legs and feet. Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is much less common. It involves frequent movements that cause arousals from sleep. These disruptions can cause daytime sleepiness or fatigue.
KEY POINTS
Repetitive, involuntary leg movements during sleep
Trouble staying asleep
Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
More than 5 limb movements per hour of sleep as measured during a sleep study for a child.
More than 15 limb movements per hour of sleep as measured during a sleep study for an adult.
Am I at Risk ?
GENERAL OVERVIEW

TREATMENTS
PLMD can be treated with a prescription medication. Your doctor will help you decide if you need a medication. If your iron levels are low, your doctor may recommend that you take iron supplements.
TIPS
Eat a well-balanced diet including foods that are rich in iron.
Exercise each day at a pace that feels comfortable.
Stretch or massage the legs before bed.
Take a warm bath before bed.
Talk to your doctor about any causes of stress in your life.
Limit caffeine and alcohol.
Do not smoke.
Next Steps
- Talk with your doctor about your symptoms. It may help to write down your symptoms including the time of day when they occur.
- Ask your bed partner to describe your sleep symptoms.
- Discuss all of your medications and herbal supplements with your doctor. Some of these could cause periodic limb movements or make them worse.
- Your doctor may test your iron levels.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: CONTENT DEVELOPED BY THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF SLEEP MEDICINE
