Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Methods to Quantify Pharmacologically Induced Alterations in Motor Function in Human Incomplete SCI
Published on: April 18, 2011
Restless legs syndrome--new insights into clinical characteristics, pathophysiology, and treatment options
K Stiasny-Kolster1, C Trenkwalder, W Fogel
1Department of Neurology, Philipps University Marburg, Rudolf-Bultmann-Strasse 8, 35033 Marburg, Germany. stiasny@staff.uni-marburg.de
Abstract:
We summarize recent advances in the clinical definition of restless legs syndrome (RLS), in understanding the basic mechanisms, and the successful treatments of RLS. New diagnostic instruments and severity scales have been developed for better phenotyping of the individual patient. Iron metabolism related components and the dopaminergic system have been extensively investigated in respect to the pathophysiology of RLS. The presence of mechanical hyperalgesia to pin-prick points towards an involvement of the nociceptive system. Genetic research has reported loci on chromosome 12q and 14q to play a role in the vulnerability to RLS. Placebo-controlled large-scale phase II and III treatment trials have shown that dopamine agonists are safe and efficacious agents for the treatment of this disorder.
Related Concept Videos
Parkinson's Disease: Overview
Restless Leg Syndrome and Night Terrors
The exact cause of RLS is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate muscle movement. Imbalances in dopamine levels...
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Parkinson Disease l: Introduction
Alterations in Muscle Tone ll
Alterations in Muscle Tone lll

