What are Periodic Leg Movements (PLMs)?

• PLMs are evenly spaced out repetitive movements of the legs occurring in sleep.

Criteria for diagnosis -

• A sequence of at least 5 evenly spaced movements,
  
• 20-40 secs. apart,
  
• Duration of 0.5 to 5 sec.

Causes/conditions associated with PLMs

Primary

• Familial/idiopathic

Secondary

• Iron deficiency anemia
  
• Folic /Vitamin B12 deficiency
  
• Diabetes Mellitus
  
• Chronic Renal Failure
  
• Blood Donors
  
• Pregnant Women