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Published on: 11/25/2025
Do children usually outgrow Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) as they get older?
Most children with Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) tend to outgrow it as they get older, but some may continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.
Questions about outgrowing RMD?
Explanation
Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) is a condition where children move their bodies in a repetitive way during sleep. This can include movements like headbanging or body rocking. Most kids with RMD will stop having these movements as they grow up. However, there are some cases where the movements continue into adulthood.
Key Points:
- Common in Children: RMD is mostly seen in young children.
- Outgrowing the Disorder: Many children outgrow these movements as they get older.
- Persistent Cases: A few people continue to have RMD symptoms as adults.
If you have concerns about sleep or related disorders, it is always a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional. For mental health support, you can visit 988lifeline.org.
(References)
- Attarian H, Ward N, & Schuman C. (2009). A multigenerational family with persistent sleep related .... Journal of clinical sleep medicine : JCSM : official publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 20465026.
- Peramalaiah MK, Parmar ST, Sepehri N, Muthukumarana S, Kanitkar A, Hin CK, & Szturm TJ. (2025). Evaluation of a Game-Based Mechatronic Device for .... JMIR rehabilitation and assistive technologies, 39964707.
- Kohyama J, Matsukura F, Kimura K, & Tachibana N. (2002). Rhythmic movement disorder: polysomnographic study .... Brain & development, 11751023.
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