Terapia cognitivo comportamental para pacientes portadores da síndrome das pernas inquietas

Abstract

Introduction. The Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) is a chronic disease that is characterized by uncomfortable sensations in the lower limbs, which start at rest, especially at night and with an urgent need to move them to relieve symptoms. This discomfort impairs family, social, personal, professional relationships, and leading to insomnia and deteriorating quality of life of its sufferers. The cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) uses techniques to reorganize and reevaluate habits and beliefs, and have been proven effective in sleep disorders treatment, contributing to improve the quality of sleep of patients. Method. We performed a literature review on SPI, quality of life and non-pharmacological treatments. Results. We found one article with controlled clinical trial design that used CBT for the treatment of patients with RLS, and using the technique of mindfulness. Conclusion. CBT is a form of non-pharmacological treatment for RLS, but there are no studies to verify its effectiveness, or even his indication as an option for treatment of RLS. Pharmacological treatment remains the first choice of treatment, and changes in behavior and sleep hygiene measures as therapies associated with conventional treatment.