Do Children with ADHD Have Higher RLS Rates?

PostedSeptember 10, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 12, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, research indicates that RLS rates in children with ADHD are significantly higher compared to children without ADHD. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations. These symptoms typically worsen in the evening or at night, disrupting sleep and affecting daytime functioning.

The Link Between Pediatric RLS and ADHD

Studies have found that pediatric RLS is more prevalent among children diagnosed with ADHD, with some research suggesting rates up to twice as high as in the general paediatric population. Both conditions are thought to involve irregularities in dopamine regulation, a neurotransmitter crucial for controlling movement, attention, and motivation. Iron deficiency, another factor linked to RLS, has also been reported more often in children with ADHD.

Impact on ADHD Symptoms

When children experience poor sleep due to RLS, their ADHD comorbidity symptoms, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, may become more pronounced. This can make school performance, emotional regulation, and daily routines even more challenging.

Why Early Recognition Matters

Identifying RLS in children with ADHD is crucial because targeted treatment, such as addressing iron deficiency, improving sleep hygiene, or using dopamine-based medications, can improve both sleep quality and ADHD symptom control. Without intervention, the cycle of poor sleep and worsened ADHD behaviours can persist.

Understanding the higher RLS rates of children with ADHD can help parents, teachers, and healthcare providers take a proactive approach to diagnosis and treatment. For more on pediatric RLS and managing ADHD comorbidity, consider reaching out to providers like ADHD Certify.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Sleep disorders.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.