Muscle Twitches in the Leg

If you have muscle twitches in your legs, you may feel confused or alarmed as to the cause. Many times, these twitches are harmless and go away on their own. If that is not the case with you, see your medical professional's advice for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Fibromyalgia

• Fibromyalgia is often difficult to diagnose because most medical tests don't show that anything is wrong. Fibromyalgia patients experience fatigue and muscle pain throughout their bodies. You might also often experience muscle weakness in your legs along with twitching. More than half of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia experience muscle twitching in their legs. Only your doctor can determine if your muscle twitches are associated with fibromyalgia.

Restless Legs Syndrome

• Muscle twitches in your legs could be a symptom of restless legs syndrome. RLS is characterized by frequent urges to move your legs. Patients often describe these sensations as twitching, pulling, creeping or itching. The sensation occurs most frequently when you are sedentary and can only be relieved by moving your legs. The sensations return as soon as you stop moving. You experience the most discomfort at night, when you are lying still to try to go to sleep.

Other Causes

• Muscle twitches in your legs also can be caused by tiredness or exertion, such as a strenuous workout. Your muscles could be strained or otherwise injured. Some medications cause muscle twitching, and so can stress. Caffeine consumption or withdrawal can cause muscle tension, pain and twitching.