Relaxation therapy and good sleep practices encourage sound sleep in some PLMD patients. Refer to Sleep Tips for Successful Sleep for behaviors that help improve sleep. The first step in treating any sleep disorder is to ascertain any underlying causes. Anemia, diabetes, or the use of certain antidepressants can contribute to leg movements. Sleeping pills prevent the sleeper from frequent awakenings, but do not subdue the leg movements.
Painkillers reduce the number of leg movements, but have little effect treating insomnia.
To date, drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease seem to be the most effective - they treat both the movements and the insomnia. Their side effects are minimal. However, the effects of long-term use in younger adults are unknown. However, this treatment has not been proven clinically. Vitamin E may alleviate PLMD symptoms if poor peripheral circulation is the cause.