Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) can be recognized and diagnosed using the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group (IRLSSG) diagnostic criteria.1

Due to the subjective nature of the disorder, patients often experience difficulty in describing their symptoms.

This graphic depicts how patients describe RLS symptoms in their legs.1,7

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the different terms patients may use to describe their symptoms.

The ICD-9 diagnostic code for Restless Legs Syndrome is 333.94.

International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group Diagnostic Criteria

The International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group has developed four diagnostic criteria for Restless Legs Syndrome, which now form the basis to either confirm or rule out a diagnosis of Restless Legs Syndrome.1

Supportive Clinical Features of Restless Legs Syndrome

The IRLS Study Group also lists some supportive clinical features of Restless Legs Syndrome that are not necessary for diagnosis, but are common to people with Restless Legs Syndrome. They may help support a diagnosis of Restless Legs Syndrome—especially in ambiguous cases.1

• Positive family history of Restless Legs Syndrome
• Periodic limb movements during wakefulness or sleep (PLMW or PLMS)
• Sleep disturbance

• Back pain
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Arthritis
• Nocturnal cramps
• Neuropathy