Restless legs syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sensorimotor disorder causing significant distress and is commonly seen in the primary care setting.

OBJECTIVE: This article outlines the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of RLS, with a focus on the primary care setting.

DISCUSSION: RLS is a clinical diagnosis, although mimics exist. Brain iron deficiency, dopaminergic dysfunction and genetics underpin the poorly understood pathophysiology of this common condition. After repleting iron stores, reviewing any exacerbating medications and attending to non-pharmacological management options, there are pharmacological options that prove to be effective, although with class-specific effects that need to be considered.