Giving Rest to the Restless Leg: A Case Report of How Self-Education Prepending Web-Based Interventions Can Ameliorate Restless Leg Syndrome

Abstract

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to move one's leg sporadically. The pathogenesis of RLS, also known as Willis Ekborn disease, is not fully understood; however, scientists note a complex interplay between multiple neuronal pathway-related genes with endogenous and exogenous factors. We report a case of a previously healthy 27-year-old man complaining of a continuous urge to move his right leg, notably at night. Laboratory evaluation proved negative for secondary causes of RLS; hence the condition was labeled as "primary idiopathic." The patient was started on appropriate pharmacotherapy and was advised to self-educate regarding his ailment. The patient began internet-based self-education and displayed excellent improvements on the International Restless Leg Syndrome Scale (IRLS). Mental exercises, such as self-education using web-based intervention and pharmacotherapy, could alleviate factors in patients with primary idiopathic RLS. Further research is needed to clarify self-education's role in managing RLS.