There are a wide variety of sleep disorders, but the most common are insomnia, sleep apnea and restless legs syndrome. The average adult needs about 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night to maintain physical and mental health. Sleep disorders prevent people from getting this required sleep, which means they are unable to function optimally.

There are a variety of treatments for sleep disorders from medications to relaxation exercises. In cases where sleep is severely disrupted on a regular basis, it is important for sufferers to seek help, because they may be endangering their health and safety if the disorder is left untreated.

There are effective treatments for both restless leg syndrome and periodic limb movement, and they include:

-exercise such as walking and jogging

-wrapping legs in bandages, stockings or pantyhose

-taking iron supplements

-reducing intake of caffeine, alcohol and nicotine

-maintaining a regular sleep schedule

-doing stretches for legs, knees and ankles

-massaging the legs

-relaxating with yoga, meditation or other exercises

-applying heat or cold to the legs

-lying on your side with pillow between the knees