Healthy sleep habits may help reduce how often they occur. Maintaining a consistent bedtime, limiting caffeine later in the day, managing stress, avoiding excessive screen time before bed, and getting enough sleep each night can all contribute to a smoother transition into sleep.

However, if nighttime movements become frequent, painful, occur repeatedly throughout the night, or are accompanied by symptoms such as loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or excessive daytime sleepiness, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. These symptoms may indicate another sleep disorder that requires evaluation.

For most people, though, hypnic jerks are simply one of the many fascinating ways the brain and body prepare for a restful night’s sleep.