Restless legs syndrome in a primary contact setting: a case report.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the diagnostic features of a patient who presented to a chiropractor with restless legs syndrome (RLS), a common but often under-diagnosed condition.


METHODS
A 42-year-old male patient presented with twitching and deep pressure in the legs bilaterally; described also as an uncomfortable urge to move the legs that followed a circadian rhythm occurring in the evening. The symptoms were initiated after periods of rest and they were relieved by movement. Physical examination was non-contributory which is common in RLS except in secondary forms of the condition.


CONCLUSIONS
The pathophysiology of RLS is still unknown but several treatments have been studied. Non-pharmacologic treatment options include education on improving sleep hygiene, decreasing alcohol and caffeine intake, moderate exercise and supplements. Pharmacological treatment options are available, with L-dopa being the most effective.


CONCLUSIONS
The symptoms of RLS were 65% resolved in the case presented in one month. Awareness and proper diagnosis by all primary contact practitioners is necessary for effective management of RLS.
Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada. mstupar@uhnresearch.ca
Maja
M
Stupar