Biopsychosocial barriers and facilitators in the everyday lives of patients with restless legs syndrome: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common condition affecting 3% of the world's population. Pharmacological treatments do not cure RLS, and symptoms substantially affect everyday life. However, knowledge of biopsychosocial (BPS) factors influencing patients' everyday lives remains limited. This study aimed to explore and describe BPS barriers and facilitators influencing everyday life among patients with RLS. METHODS: A deductive, descriptive qualitative design grounded in the BPS model was employed. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 28 strategically selected patients from a national RLS organisation. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis and structured according to biological, psychological, and social barriers and facilitators. RESULTS: Biological barriers included RLS-related symptoms, sleep disturbances, and fatigue, while physical activity and environmental adaptations facilitated symptom management. Psychological barriers involved despair and inadequate healthcare responses, whereas access to information and supportive healthcare interactions enhanced everyday life. Social barriers included limitations in daily activities and the need for lifestyle adjustments. Support from patient organisations and understanding social networks facilitated coping with RLS. Together, these findings highlight how interconnected BPS factors shape patients' everyday experiences and ability to manage their condition. CONCLUSIONS: Comprehensive RLS care should address biological, psychological, and social barriers, particularly sleep disturbances and care-related stress, while promoting facilitating factors such as lifestyle adaptations and social support. Future research should evaluate the effects of comprehensive care interventions on symptom severity and overall BPS functioning in RLS.