Central and peripheral excitability in restless limbs syndrome.

ABSTRACT: Restless limbs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to move the limbs. Although it affects up to 10% of the general population, its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Neurophysiological excitability testing may help elucidate mechanisms related to sensorimotor integration, axonal ion channel dysfunction and impaired neural inhibition. This study aimed to assess both CNS and PNS function by examining cortical, spinal and peripheral nerve excitability within the same individuals for the first time. To investigate potential widespread excitability changes in RLS, we specifically analysed hand muscles, offering new insights into the extent of neural involvement beyond the lower limbs. The study included 56 RLS patients, divided into tre

SUBMITTER: De Grado A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12784252 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature