How common is restless leg syndrome among adults?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a common neurological condition, affecting an estimated 5–10% of adults worldwide. Characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs—often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations—RLS can disrupt sleep and daily functioning. While prevalence varies by age, sex, and genetics, millions live with symptoms that are frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked.

If you're experiencing leg discomfort, sleep disturbances, or unexplained urges to move, don't guess—get clarity. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify possible causes, understand your risk, and determine the right next steps. Early insight leads to better outcomes, so take a few minutes today to better understand what your body is telling you.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/14/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover what’s causing restless legs at night Learn if restless legs need care today Find out if symptoms fit restless legs See OTC relief for restless leg symptoms Find a doctor for restless leg syndrome Understand home remedies for restless leg syndrome Discover if your restless legs need treatment

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Explanation

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a condition that makes people feel an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, usually due to uncomfortable sensations. It often happens in the evening or at night when you're sitting or lying down.

How Common is RLS?

RLS affects around 5-10% of adults.
It can occur at any age, but it is more common in middle-aged and older adults.

What Causes RLS?

The exact cause of RLS is not fully understood, but it may be related to how the brain processes movement and sensations.

Symptoms of RLS:

An urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations.
Symptoms that begin or worsen during periods of rest or inactivity.
Partial or total relief from discomfort by moving the legs.
Symptoms that are worse in the evening or at night.

If you think you might have RLS, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management. You can start by taking a free AI symptom checker test to help identify what might be causing your symptoms.

(References)

Manconi M, Garcia-Borreguero D, Schormair B, Videnovic A, Berger K, Ferri R, & Dauvilliers Y. (2021). Restless legs syndrome. Nature reviews. Disease primers, 34732752.
Satija P, & Ondo WG. (2008). Restless legs syndrome: pathophysiology, diagnosis and .... CNS drugs, 18484792.
Silber MH, Buchfuhrer MJ, Earley CJ, Koo BB, Manconi M, Winkelman JW, & Scientific and Medical Advisory Board of the Restless Legs Syndrome Foundation. (2021). The Management of Restless Legs Syndrome: An Updated .... Mayo Clinic proceedings, 34218864.

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