Validation of a Screening Tool for Restless Legs Syndrome

(in conjunction with Investigators at Kaiser Permanente-Santa Rosa and Stanford University; Funded by: the Kaiser Permanente Community Benefit Program)

Over the last five years there has been a greater appreciation for Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS). Some estimates of prevalence have ranged up to 30% for adults. However, the methods for identifying these individuals in epidemiological approaches are poorly developed.

We will develop and test a questionnaire that can be used to identify individuals with RLS. Specifically, we will seek to determine the validity of the questionnaire. The questionnaire will be administered to four groups of Kaiser members: 1) patients already diagnosed with RLS; 2) individuals with sleep disorders that may mimic RLS; 3) individuals with peripheral neuropathy; and 4) individuals with more distant conditions where RLS may be undiagnosed.

Because RLS is often undiagnosed or diagnosed as another condition, and the condition has significant morbidity, having a valid screening questionnaire can allow clinicians to include a simple questionnaire as part of the evaluation. If positive, the patient can then undergo a more detailed work up for RLS.

This study is beginning to identify study participants. Data collection has not yet begun.