There are lots reasons behind sleep deprivation. But two of them have to do with a person’s arms and legs jerking and twitching uncontrollably. This happens when they are trying to fall asleep or after they have fallen asleep the sporadic movement of their limbs stirs them from their sleep.

This agitated state can be either Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) or Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMB).

The information below explains about both of these issues along with some helpful information on ways to control them if you suspect one of these may be the cause of your sleep deprivation.

Restless Leg Syndrome: This is an uncomfortable sleeping related issue where your legs and arms can twitch quite violently or your legs are in such an un-relaxed state with charlie-horse like feelings that to help ease the pain and discomfort is by shifting them around. By moving your legs it eradicates the bad feeling or discomfort. However when you relax after a short time or try to fall asleep, the feeling returns.

A person knows if they suffer from RLS if they noticed a sudden urge to move their legs or because they feel jittery, a hot feeling on their legs or like something is crawling on their legs. This feeling could occur while resting on your back or sitting in a chair and if you move your legs and these odd feelings go away, then the chances are high that you suffer from Restless Leg Syndrome.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (or Syndrome): This is when your legs and/or your arms involuntarily move about while you are sleeping. It’s highly likely the sufferer will awaken when this happens and if there is a sleeping partner in the bed, it will certainly disrupt their sleep too. In lots of cases people who suffer from RLS have been known to suffer from PLMD.

PLMD happens at odd intervals throughout one’s life and can happen to both young and old. However it is mainly older people who suffer the most. There are two types of PLMD, primary and secondary.

It’s important that if you start to use sleeping pills e.g. Ambien, that you also take time to understand any Ambien side effects.

Important Note: This article is for information purposes only and is NOT medical advice. You should consult your doctor if you have concerns over your health or before you take any sleeping aids.

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