In the journals: Exercise eases nighttime leg twitches
In the journals
Stress and worry — and sometimes a partner's snoring — can keep us up at night, but some women may be losing sleep for a less obvious reason. Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) may cause their legs to kick or jerk every 20 to 40 seconds for minutes to hours during sleep. Even when they are not awakened by these episodes, they may suffer from problems related to chronic sleep loss, including daytime drowsiness and lack of alertness, because normal sleep patterns are disrupted.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.