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Updated: Apr 28, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy DISE with Target Controlled Infusion TCI and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
CPAP treats muscle cramps in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Andrew J Westwood1, Andrew R Spector2, Sanford H Auerbach3
1Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY.
Abstract:
We describe a case series of 4 patients with varying degrees of obstructive sleep apnea who incidentally had a history of nocturnal leg cramps. None of the patients had periodic limb movements during the study and denied symptoms consistent with restless legs syndrome. In 3 of the 4 patients, nocturnal leg cramps resolved with CPAP treatment for OSA, while the fourth patient noted near-resolution of cramping after starting CPAP. In patients presenting with muscle cramps, obstructive sleep apnea should be considered.
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