Restless Legs Awareness Day aims to promote awareness of this medical condition or syndrome. It is held on the same day each year to coincide with the birth date of Professor Karl-Axel Ekborn (born 23rd September 1907, died 1977). This eminent Swedish neurologist first wrote and described the disease in 1945. Since then, a lot has been learned about its symptoms although (to date) there is no known primary cause. It may be associated with dopamine or blood iron levels.
Characterised by urges to move the legs even when at rest, it can also sometimes occur in the arms. Secondary causes include some medication or other pre-disposing medical conditions.
International Awareness Day aims to increase understanding of RLS and the jerky movements and in some cases distress caused. A cure is still being sought. In 2013, the North Carolina (USA) proclaimed that this day should be observed by all citizens.
