title: Motor restlessness.
abstract: Motor restlessness, characterised by an irresistible urge to move about, can be a manifestation of many underlying disorders. Unfortunately, it is often poorly recognised and underdiagnosed in clinical practice, possibly because patients do not seek medical attention, or their complaints were thought to be secondary to anxiety. While the two major conditions to consider are restless legs syndrome and neuroleptic-induced akathisia, there are many other differential diagnoses. We provide a concise review of the clinical features and diagnostic pitfalls of these conditions. A proper detailed clinical history and examination can often help clinch the diagnosis, as most of these conditions have their unique clinical features.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore.
authors.forename: E K
authors.initials: EK
authors.lastname: Tan
authors.forename: W G
authors.initials: WG
authors.lastname: Ondo
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D017109:Akathisia, Drug-Induced / Q000175:diagnosis; D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D011595:Psychomotor Agitation / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012148:Restless Legs Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis
chemical_list: D014150:Antipsychotic Agents