Restless legs syndrome is a chronic disorder characterized by the onset of a feeling of general leg discomfort, which occurs when the legs are kept still even for short periods of time.
Symptoms also appear during the day, while awake, when sitting or lying down, but the greatest problems occur during the nighttime hours, as discomfort in the legs and the constant need to move them can greatly interfere with sleep, making it difficult to fall asleep or waking up repeatedly throughout the night.
Restless legs syndrome can affect both men and women, generally in adulthood and with greater frequency and intensity in the elderly.