Restless legs syndrome (RLS) and diabetic painful neuropathy (DPN) are two distinct neurological conditions, which share many similarities. As RLS occurs frequently in persons with diabetes, the differential diagnosis and management of RLS and DPN may pose a clinical challenge. This communication describes the etiopathogenesis, clinical features, investigations, and treatment of both conditions. It highlights the similarities and differences between RLS and DPN, and helps the physician plan a rational clinical and therapeutic approach.
Keywords: Diabetes; Dopaminergic agonists; Gabapentin; Microvascular; Neuropathy; Opioids; Pregabalin.