Sleep movement disorders are a category of sleep disorders characterized by abnormal movements or behaviors during sleep or as one transitions to sleep. These disorders can significantly disrupt sleep — leading to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and various health problems.
If you or a loved one struggles with movement disorders during sleep, consult with Dr. Saema Tahir, M.D. and undergo appropriate testing. With the right approach, sleep movement disorders can be managed and allow you to feel well rested.
Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS): A neurological disorder marked by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by tingling, itching, or aching. Symptoms occur during rest, particularly at night. Often associated with iron deficiency, kidney disease, diabetes, pregnancy, or genetic predisposition.
Periodic Limb Movement Disorder (PLMD): Repetitive, involuntary leg movements during sleep — often every 20–40 seconds — leading to frequent awakenings and excessive daytime sleepiness. More common in older adults.
Sleep Bruxism: Grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep, leading to dental problems, jaw pain, headaches, and disrupted sleep. Stress and anxiety are major contributors.
Rhythmic Movement Disorder (RMD): Repetitive movements like headbanging, body rocking, or head rolling before or during sleep — more common in infants and children.
Nocturnal Leg Cramps: Sudden, painful, involuntary muscle contractions in the calves during sleep. Causes include dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and certain medications.
Dr. Tahir is a quadruple board certified physician who specializes in Pulmonary Disease, Critical Care Medicine and Sleep Medicine. She practices with integrity and puts patient communication at the forefront, building tailored assessments and treatment plans that involve a comprehensive physical, social and psychological evaluation.
For Dr. Tahir, best care involves trust on top of a true holistic approach. She is currently accepting new patients and can often accelerate treatment so you don’t have to wait weeks or months to get the help you need.
Treatment is tailored to the specific condition. For restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder, treatment often begins with addressing lifestyle factors and underlying conditions. Ensuring adequate iron levels through diet or supplements is effective for RLS, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule, practicing good sleep hygiene, and incorporating moderate exercise help alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, medications such as dopamine agonists, anticonvulsants, or benzodiazepines may be prescribed.
For sleep-related bruxism, treatment focuses on protecting the teeth and managing contributing factors like stress. Wearing a dental guard at night prevents damage and reduces jaw pain. Stress management techniques — CBT, relaxation exercises, biofeedback — also help. In severe cases, muscle relaxants or botulinum toxin (Botox) injections may be used.
