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Published on: 11/25/2025
Is Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) more common in infants and young children?
Yes, Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) is more common in infants and young children, often decreasing with age.
Wondering why RMD affects children?
Explanation
Sleep-Related Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD) is a condition where children make repetitive movements during sleep. It is most common in infants and young children.
- Prevalence: RMD is typically seen in young children and tends to decrease as they get older. Many children outgrow these movements.
- Characteristics: These movements often involve the head or body and occur at the start of sleep or during lighter stages of sleep.
According to the available research, RMD is more frequently observed in children than in adults. While it can persist into adulthood, it is less common. The disorder is usually not harmful, but if it causes problems with sleep or affects daytime functioning, it may require attention. For more information or support, particularly if there are concerns about mental health, visit 988lifeline.org.
(References)
- Gogo E, van Sluijs RM, Cheung T, Gaskell C, Jones L, Alwan NA, & Hill CM. (2019). Objectively confirmed prevalence of sleep-related rhythmic .... Sleep medicine, 30384137.
- 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.
- Hoban TF. (2003). Rhythmic movement disorder in children. CNS spectrums, 12612499.
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