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I work in my sleep. I’m asleep but physically I am full movement. Arms out and doing the task. Anyone ever heard of this or has it happened?

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
TEXAS, TX
April 23
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Reactions
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thankfully, I don’t talk. My spouse would kick me out. We have adjustable beds so she doesn’t feel my movement.

April 24
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

Thank you so much! I thought I was going a little crazy. I’m enough crazy without adding more. Lol

April 23
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

I once picked up my laptop and sent messages on fb to people. The messages didn't make much sense... one person had someone check on me. It was embarrassing!

April 24
A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

My husband flails all night long,arms legs jolting like an electric current is going through his body. He also mumbles strange words

April 23
MyParkinsonsTeam

What you're describing sounds like it could be REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), which is actually associated with Parkinson's disease. During REM sleep, most people's bodies are essentially "paralyzed" to prevent acting out dreams — but with RBD, that doesn't happen.

This means a person can physically act out whatever Show Full Answer

What you're describing sounds like it could be REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), which is actually associated with Parkinson's disease. During REM sleep, most people's bodies are essentially "paralyzed" to prevent acting out dreams — but with RBD, that doesn't happen.

This means a person can physically act out whatever they're dreaming, including working, reaching, or doing tasks — all while completely asleep. It can range from small movements to full, vigorous activity. You are definitely not alone in this. A MyParkinsonsTeam member shared that they "thrash about violently" during the night, and others have described erratic movements that even affect their sleeping partners.

This is something worth bringing up with your neurologist, especially if the movements are intense. Here's why it matters:

- Safety risk — active movements during sleep can lead to falls or injury
- Sleep quality — acting out dreams disrupts truly restful sleep
- Partner safety — others sharing the bed can also be at risk

The good news is there are ways to manage RBD, so a conversation with your doctor can really help here.

April 23

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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
August 28

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