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Why choose Geisinger for restless legs syndrome care?

You’re finally lying down in bed, but then you get a compulsion to move. A crawling feeling that eases the moment you get up, but starts again the moment you’re still. These sensations aren’t just in your head. They’re common signs of restless legs syndrome (RLS), a recognized condition that disrupts sleep for millions of people.

The cause of RLS isn’t always clear. But getting treated can help manage your symptoms and get you better sleep. Our sleep specialists work with you to quiet the restlessness, usually through recommending lifestyle or dietary changes, medications or a combination of methods.

To get started, talk with your primary care provider (PCP) about your symptoms. They can send us a referral. From there, you’ll have a care team working toward a single goal: helping you lie down and get some good sleep.

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FAQs

What’s restless legs syndrome?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also called Willis-Ekbom disease, causes an uncomfortable urge to move your legs when you're resting, sitting still or trying to sleep. The sensation usually improves temporarily when you get up and move. There are 2 types:

  • Primary restless legs syndrome is hereditary.
  • Secondary restless legs syndrome is linked to other medical conditions or the use of certain drugs.

Is restless legs syndrome real?

Yes. Restless legs syndrome is a recognized neurological condition — not something you’re imagining. It affects an estimated 10% of U.S. adults and is a common reason why people have trouble falling or staying asleep. Putting a name to the feeling is often the first step toward relief.

What are common symptoms of restless legs syndrome?

The hallmark of RLS is an urge to move your legs that comes with an uncomfortable feeling like crawling, tingling, aching or a pull you can’t quite describe.

A few symptoms set RLS apart from other conditions. It shows up when you’re falling asleep, it gets worse in the evening and moving your legs eases your symptoms temporarily.

You may feel these sensations in your arms, too.

How do doctors diagnose restless legs syndrome?

While there is no single test to diagnose RLS, your provider diagnoses it from your symptoms and health history.

Keeping a short sleep log helps — note when you go to sleep and wake up, what disrupts you and how you feel during the day.

You may also have blood work or other tests, mainly to check your iron levels and rule out other causes.

Do I need a referral for restless legs syndrome care?

Yes. You'll need a referral from your primary care provider (PCP) before scheduling an appointment with a restless legs syndrome specialist. Once your PCP sends an order, our team takes it from there.

Restless legs syndrome care at Geisinger

When restless legs syndrome is keeping you up, we’re here to help. We offer:

  • Care close to home: With locations in central and northeastern Pennsylvania, expert sleep care is nearby and backed by a nationally recognized health system.
  • Diagnostic testing: Because restless legs can be tied to low iron or other conditions, blood work and other tests help confirm what's going on.
  • An experienced sleep team: You’ll have access to specialists who diagnose and treat a range of sleep conditions, so you're in knowledgeable hands.
  • Personalized treatment plans: Treatment recommendations are tailored to your symptoms, goals and lifestyle to support long-term symptom management.