Restless Leg Syndrome ICD-10-CM Codes | 2025

Learn about Restless Leg Syndrome ICD-10-CM code G25.81, its symptoms, causes, treatments, and when to use this billable diagnosis code.

By Wynona Jugueta on Aug 8, 2025.

Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.

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What are Restless Leg Syndrome ICD-10-CM Codes?

Restless legs syndrome (RLS), also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological disorder characterized by an uncomfortable sensation and an irresistible urge to move the legs, especially during rest or at night. It falls under the category of extrapyramidal and movement disorders in the ICD-10-CM system.

Healthcare professionals must document restless leg syndrome ICD-10 codes accurately to ensure proper diagnosis, treatment, and insurance reimbursement. Accurate use of ICD-10 codes for restless legs syndrome also helps differentiate RLS from other movement disorders and nervous system conditions that may have similar symptoms.

As of 2025, there is one primary ICD-10 code for this condition:

G25.81 – Restless legs syndrome

This code is billable and used for encounters related to restless leg syndrome, and can be applied from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024. It applies to adult and pediatric cases involving sleep-related movement disorders and extrapyramidal disorders.

Which Restless Leg Syndrome ICD-10-CM Codes are billable?

Yes, G25.81: Restless leg syndrome, the ICD-10 code assigned to restless leg syndrome or RLS, is billable.

Clinical information

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterised by an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, typically accompanied by unpleasant sensations such as tingling, burning, a pulling or creeping feeling, and sometimes pain or throbbing—especially in the calves. These symptoms often intensify during periods of rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening or at night, and can severely disrupt sleep and impair daily functioning. Although RLS primarily affects the lower limbs, similar symptoms may occasionally appear in the upper extremities.

The exact cause of RLS is not fully understood; however, several factors may contribute to its development. These include genetic predisposition and dysfunction in the brain’s dopaminergic pathways. Iron deficiency and anaemia are commonly associated with RLS, as are chronic health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, and peripheral neuropathy. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, may also provoke symptoms. Certain medications that alter dopamine levels can exacerbate or trigger RLS.

Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on a patient’s symptom history, but additional tests may be performed to exclude other possible causes. These include polysomnography to assess sleep disturbances, electromyography to evaluate nerve and muscle function, and iron studies to check for deficiencies.

Management of RLS includes both pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies. Medications that regulate dopamine, such as dopaminergic agents, are often effective in treating symptoms. In more severe cases, anticonvulsants or opioids may be considered. Treating any underlying condition, such as correcting iron deficiency or managing rheumatoid arthritis, is also vital.

Synonyms include:

Willis-Ekbom Disease (WED)
Ekbom's Syndrome
Nocturnal Myoclonus
Leg Motor Restlessness
Leg Fidgeting Syndrome
Sleep-Related Movement Disorder

Commonly asked questions

Use a Restless Leg Syndrome ICD-10 code, such as G25.81, when a patient presents with clinical signs consistent with RLS, including an uncontrollable urge to move the legs during rest or sleep. This code is applicable after a provider confirms the diagnosis based on symptom history, evaluation, and potential exclusion of other movement disorders.

Yes, G25.81 – Restless legs syndrome is a valid and fully billable ICD-10-CM code. It can be used for insurance claims and documentation purposes when RLS is the confirmed diagnosis during a patient encounter.

Common treatments for restless leg syndrome include dopaminergic medications, anticonvulsants, and iron supplements if a deficiency is present. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, maintaining good sleep hygiene, and reducing alcohol and caffeine consumption, are also recommended to help manage symptoms.

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