Periodic Limb Research Paper

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD), also known as nocturnal myoclonus, is a sleeping disorder in which those who are affected by PLMD experience will involuntarily move their limbs during sleep, and rarely while awake. This can include both legs and arms. There is a wide range of those at risk, and is more likely to occur with age. PLMD is often confused with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), although though to be the same each has its own characteristics that separate them. Periodic Limb Movement Disorder causes the patient to move their limbs during sleep, all while being unaware of their movement. One, or even both legs, may move around. Movements can last from half a second to five seconds, reoccurring for up to about twenty to forty seconds. The severity of the condition varies from person to person. Ranging anywhere from twitches, to what can be described as thrashing. Those with more severe cases, find that they are waking up at night due to their constant movement. Not only does it affect themselves, but also their partner. However, less severe cases may not suffer consequences and may not need to seek treatment. A polysomnograph may help detect the severity of PLMD. In rare cases, PLMD may occur while awake, or Periodic Limb …show more content…
One of which is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), is usually associated with PLMD. Although they have similarites, and are often confused to be the same, distinct characteristics separate the two. Though both PLMD and RLS cause leg movement, RLS causes the individual to move through urges and discomfort rather than involuntarily. Sufferers of RLS describe an urge to move, either from a pain or crawling feeling while at rest, in an attempt to comfort themselves including before sleep. Another similarity the disorders share is a side effect, fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness. Both keep the individual awake for excessive amounts of time due to