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.
Stupar
Maja
M
Department of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada. mstupar@uhnresearch.ca