Physical Activity Levels are not Related to Increased Symptoms in Adults with Restless Legs Syndrome

Abstract

2100 Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a poorly understood neuromuscular condition characterized by unusual sensations in the extremities and poor sleep quality. RLS occurs in approximately 10% of the general population, and is more prevalent in overweight, sedentary older adults. Individuals with RLS frequently abstain from exercise as it is thought that physical activity can provoke RLS symptoms. PURPOSE: To identify the relationship between symptom severity and physical activity levels in adults with RLS. METHODS: Habitual physical activity was assessed using the CHAMPS Activities Questionnaire for Older Adults and RLS symptoms were measured using the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group Questionnaire. Bivariate relationships were analyzed using Spearman Rank Order Correlation Analyses. RESULTS: Forty-three individuals (M 12, F 31) with an average age of 54(± 9) years participated in this cross-sectional study. Participants reported an average of 5 (± 5) exercise sessions a week, and an average of 2,998 (± 2475) calories expended in moderate intensity activities per week. There was no significant relationship between exercise frequency or caloric expenditure and RLS symptom severity. Twenty-four percent and 27% of the participants reported no involvement in exercise or moderate intensity activity, respectively. Additionally, 72% of the participants were classified as either overweight or obese by World Health Organization body mass index guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: Physical activity was not related to RLS symptom severity in this study. Greater participation in exercise and physical activity may not be related to exacerbations of RLS symptoms. This finding may be important to consider when treating adults with RLS. Given the high prevalence of inactivity and overweight/ obesity in this group, it may be important for physicians to recommend participation in moderate intensity physical activity to reduce risk of comorbidity. Sponsored by a grant from the East Tennessee State University Research Development Committee.