sleep-related rhythmic movement disorder
Sleep disorder involving repetitive, stereotyped movements during sleep that may interfere with sleep quality or cause injury.
Full Definition
Sleep-related rhythmic movement disorder involves repetitive, stereotyped movements that typically occur during drowsiness or light sleep. Common movements include head banging, body rocking, head rolling, or leg kicking. While these behaviors are normal in infants and young children, they become pathological when they persist beyond age 5, interfere with sleep quality, cause injury, or significantly impact daytime functioning. The disorder can occur in association with neurodevelopmental disorders, intellectual disabilities, or may be seen in otherwise healthy individuals. Treatment may include protective measures, behavioral interventions, or rarely, medications.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as SRRMD; distinguish from other movement disorders in sleep.
In Context
- "The child's persistent head banging during sleep was diagnosed as sleep-related rhythmic movement disorder." — Pediatric diagnosis
- "Sleep-related rhythmic movement disorder rarely requires medication unless there is risk of injury." — Treatment guideline