Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions in the body, including muscle function and nerve transmission. Magnesium is involved in muscle contraction and relaxation. Inadequate magnesium levels may contribute to muscle cramps and spasms. Some individuals find relief from muscle pain by ensuring they have sufficient magnesium intake. This can be achieved through dietary sources, supplements, or using topical (on the skin) products.
Topical magnesium products, such as magnesium creams, lotions, and oils, are designed to deliver magnesium through the skin and into the bloodstream. Some people use these products to address various types of pain, including muscle pain and soreness.
#1 Magnesium For Muscle Pain
Magnesium’s role in managing chronic and acute pain is currently being studied as alternatives to prescription medications, with positive results for many.
Magnesium is involved in muscle contraction and relaxation. Inadequate Magnesium levels contributes to muscle cramps and spasms. Many of our customers find relief from muscle pain by ensuring they have sufficient magnesium intake. This can be achieved through dietary sources, supplements, or topical Magnesium.
When we don’t have a reserve of Magnesium in our bodies, our muscles contract and tighten. You may notice this anytime you’ve been sitting in one place for over an hour; when your body is in an uncomfortable position (air travel); after a strenuous workout, or when you did something or tried a new exercise that aggravated a muscle.
For those who lift weights, run, and regularly stress their muscles during exercise often experience muscle pain and soreness due to intense physical activity, and magnesium can play a role in managing and preventing these issues.
Here’s how magnesium butter for pain can be relevant for workouts:
Energy Metabolism
Magnesium is involved in the production and utilization of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of cells. Athletes require sufficient energy for their workouts, and magnesium plays a role in energy metabolism, potentially aiding in performance and recovery.
Reducing Inflammation
Magnesium cream for pain exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation associated with intense exercise. Lowering inflammation can contribute to faster recovery and potentially alleviate muscle soreness.
Post-Exercise Recovery
Some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may help with post-exercise recovery by reducing muscle soreness and improving muscle function. This can be particularly relevant for athletes engaged in strenuous training.
It’s important to note that individual magnesium needs can vary, and athletes may have higher requirements due to increased physical activity.
Here are some potential benefits and considerations:
Localized Pain Relief
Applying topical magnesium lotion for pain directly to the affected area allows for localized delivery of the mineral. This may be particularly helpful for targeting specific muscle groups or areas experiencing pain.
Muscle Relaxation
Magnesium is known for its role in muscle function and relaxation. Applying a magnesium rub for pain topically may help relax muscles and alleviate muscle tension.
Convenience
Topical magnesium products offer a convenient way to supplement magnesium without relying on oral supplements. They can be applied directly to the skin, and the skin can absorb the magnesium.
Reducing GI Distress
Some people prefer topical magnesium to oral supplements, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal side effects that can be associated with oral magnesium supplementation.
Considerations When Using Topical Magnesium for Pain
Individual Response
The effectiveness of topical magnesium can vary among individuals. When using highly concentrated products, the results can be seen within 20-30 minutes.
Concentration and Quality
The concentration of magnesium in topical products can vary. It’s important to choose high-quality products with adequate magnesium levels for potential effectiveness. Be sure to look at the elemental, or absorbable, amounts in products.
Skin Sensitivity
Some individuals may experience skin irritation or sensitivity to topical magnesium products. It’s advisable to do a patch test before applying the product more broadly to ensure no adverse reactions occur.
Underlying Causes
While topical magnesium may provide relief for certain types of muscle pain, it’s essential to address the underlying causes of pain, especially if it is chronic or related to a specific condition.
Increasing Magnesium Levels with Food
Those who regularly exercise can also focus on maintaining a well-balanced diet that includes magnesium-rich foods such as nuts, seeds, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables.
Additionally, addressing overall nutrition, hydration, and proper training practices are key components of a comprehensive approach to managing muscle pain.
#2 Magnesium For Foot Pain
Let’s give our feet some love. They carry our full weight, help us to balance, and they serve as shock absorbers as we walk, smoothing out the impact of landing with a force that exceeds our body weight. If you run, and there’s even more force and a need for cushioning. They act as levers that propel us forward — and occasionally in other directions. Harvard Health wrote a special article here, that outlines easy steps for us to take good care of our feet: “3 Steps for Keeping Feet Healthy”.
Each foot has a total of 26 bones, 33 joints, 19 muscles and tendons and over one hundred ligaments. Our feet are pretty incredible, especially when you consider that they didn’t start out that way – they grew into the support system they are. Those bones in our feet are primarily cartilage when we’re born.
As amazing as our feet and ankles are, they do get injured and develop painful medical conditions. In fact, it’s estimated that 75% of Americans will experience foot pain at some point during their lifetime.
Interesting Facts About Our Feet, from Feet First Healthcare Specialists:
- The foot and ankle is a complex mechanical structure made up of 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments.
- The average person takes 8,000-10,000 steps each day. That adds up to approximately 115,000 miles in a typical lifetime—the equivalent to circling the globe more than four times!
- Your feet have about 250,000 sweat glands which produce up to half a pint of perspiration each day.
- There are approximately 8,000 nerves in the feet—that’s more per square centimeter than any place else on your body.
- Toenails grow more slowly than fingernails—approximately 1 mm per month. It takes 5-6 months to grow an entirely new toenail.
- In an average day of walking, your feet experience forces totaling hundreds of tons—the equivalent of a fully-loaded cement truck.
- Women experience foot problems four times more often than men. This is largely attributed to shoe choice. High heels and toes with pointy, narrow toe boxes cause multiple foot issues.
- Babies’ feet grow rapidly. By age one, most have reached nearly have of their adult size.
- Rarely are two feet on a person the same size.
- Feet are largest at the end of the day.
Magnesium for Chronic Foot Pain
Chronic pain in our feet can have multiple causes. This could be from working in professions where standing all day is the norm. A sampling of these are:
- Hair Salon Owners
- Wait Staff & Chefs
- Retail
- Teachers
- Construction
- Health Care Professionals
Those who exercise regularly can also experience foot pain, from the extreme to the just annoying and usually somewhere in between. Running, hiking, weight lifting, and even brisk walking puts intense pressure on our feet.
Nerves In Feet
The soles of your feet contain more sweat glands and sensory nerve endings per square centimeter than any body part. (No wonder why the feet are the most ticklish part of the body.)
This is the reason that Mineral & Co. recommends applying Magnesium Whips on the bottom of the feet — there are over 15,000 nerves in the feet alone!
Magnesium muscle rubs are topical formulations designed to provide targeted relief for chronic foot pain, particularly muscle pain and soreness. These products typically contain magnesium in various forms, such as magnesium chloride, along with other ingredients like oils, creams, or gels. The intent is to allow the skin to absorb magnesium and offer localized benefits for pain management.
Using Magnesium directly on the skin typically refers to a topical formulation containing magnesium that is intended for application on the skin to provide relief for chronic pain in the feet. This butter-like consistency may be created by combining magnesium with various carrier ingredients such as oils, creams, or butters. The goal is to facilitate the absorption of magnesium through the skin, targeting specific areas experiencing pain.
Do Our Shoes Contribute to Foot Pain?
Our shoes can definitely cause chronic foot pain. Many are not designed to our natural bone structure, especially for women.
Wearing high heels can contribute to foot pain due to the changes in posture and weight distribution they cause. Here are some common issues and tips for managing foot pain associated with high heels, with tips for what to do:
How do High Heels Cause Foot Pain?
High heels shift the body’s weight forward, placing excessive pressure on the ball of the foot. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and conditions like metatarsalgia. Muscle cramping in both the feet and calves can occur after wearing high heels, typically at night.
Our toes are meant to spread out — not crushed into pointy, unforgiving shoes which may look good but can cause chronic pain and even bunions.
Tip: Choose shoes with a lower heel or a platform to distribute weight more evenly. Consider using gel inserts or cushions for added support.
Toe Problems:
Pointed or narrow-toed high heels can cause issues like bunions, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails.
Tip: Opt for shoes with a wider toe box to allow more room for the toes. Ensure your shoes fit properly and are not too tight.
Achilles Tendon Issues:
Wearing high heels regularly can shorten the Achilles tendon, leading to pain and discomfort.
Tip: Stretch your calves and Achilles regularly. Consider wearing lower-heeled shoes on some days to give your feet a break.
Ankle Instability:
High heels can affect ankle stability, increasing the risk of sprains and instability.
Tip: Practice ankle-strengthening exercises and be cautious while walking on uneven surfaces. Opt for lower heels when walking long distances.
Reduced Arch Support
High heels often lack proper arch support, contributing to conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Tip: Look for shoes with built-in arch support or use orthotic inserts to provide additional support.
Limited Shock Absorption
High heels provide minimal shock absorption, which can contribute to foot fatigue and pain.
Tip: Alternate between wearing high heels and more supportive shoes. Consider using insoles or cushions for extra shock absorption.
Calf Tightness
Wearing high heels regularly can cause the calf muscles to tighten.
Tip: Stretch your calf muscles regularly and consider incorporating calf stretches into your daily routine.
Choose Heel Heights Wisely
Opt for lower heels when possible. If you must wear high heels, choose those with a moderate heel height (around 2 inches) to reduce strain on your feet.
It’s important to listen to your body and give your feet a break from high heels when possible. If foot pain persists or becomes severe, consider consulting with a podiatrist or healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.
Magnesium Rub for Pain
Giving your feet a thorough Magnesium rub for pain has proven helpful to reduce foot pain. Apply to both the bottoms of your feet as well as the tops of your feet. If your calves are also sore, apply to them as well at bedtime. This will help to relax and restore the muscles that worked so hard all day.
What Shoes are Best for My Feet?
Luckily, there are more and more options for us to choose from. A wider toe box, for instance, provides our feet with more toe room. This keeps our toes from getting crushed, and allows them to spread out the way they need to for better balance.
A wide toe box in shoes is important for several reasons, primarily related to foot comfort, health, and overall well-being. Here are some key reasons why a wide toe box is beneficial:
Toe Comfort
A wide toe box provides more space for the toes to spread naturally. This can help prevent crowding and compression of the toes, reducing the risk of issues such as bunions, hammertoes, and ingrown toenails.
Natural Toe Alignment
Shoes with a wide toe box allow the toes to align more naturally with the shape of the foot. This promotes proper toe positioning and helps prevent the development of deformities caused by prolonged use of narrow or ill-fitting footwear.
Improved Balance and Stability:
A wide toe box allows for better weight distribution across the foot, enhancing balance and stability. This can be particularly important for individuals who may have foot conditions or concerns about balance.
Reduced Pressure Points
Shoes with a wide toe box distribute pressure more evenly across the forefoot. This can reduce the likelihood of developing pressure points, discomfort, and pain in the toe area.
Prevention of Foot Issues:
Tight shoes with a narrow toe box can contribute to various foot issues, including corns, calluses, and neuromas. A wide toe box helps prevent these problems by providing sufficient space for the toes to move and function comfortably.
Accommodation for Foot Swelling:
Throughout the day, feet may experience some swelling, especially in hot weather or after prolonged periods of standing. A wide toe box accommodates this natural swelling, ensuring that the shoes remain comfortable and supportive.
Enhanced Circulation:
Proper circulation is crucial for foot health. Shoes with a wide toe box facilitate better blood flow to the toes, reducing the risk of circulatory issues and contributing to overall foot health.
Comfort for Wide Feet
Individuals with naturally wider feet or certain foot conditions (e.g., bunions) may find shoes with a wide toe box more comfortable and accommodating.
When choosing footwear, it’s essential to prioritize comfort and proper fit. Selecting shoes with a wide toe box that allows for adequate toe movement and alignment can contribute to foot health and reduce the risk of various foot problems. Always try on shoes and consider your specific foot shape and needs when making a purchase. If you have specific foot concerns, consulting with a podiatrist or footwear specialist can provide valuable guidance.
Barefoot Shoes
There are also millions of people who are shifting into “barefoot” shoes, like these from Xero Shoes. They’ve expanded their line and have come a long way. I’ve been wearing barefoot shoes for outdoor activities for over ten years, and never get sore feet with them — even on long hikes and walks. Because the soles are thin, you can sometimes feel small rocks or pebbles, but it’s well worth the comfort.
If you’re interested in reading about your feet and how to care for them, here is the most comprehensive list of books about barefoot shoes we’ve found, including topics like tending to our children’s feet, barefoot running, and how to transition from traditional footwear.
If you’re interested in further reading, Time published an article, entitled “Best Shoes for Standing All Day, According to Podiatrists.” You can read it here.
What About Reflexology?
Reflexology is believed to enhance blood circulation throughout the body, including the feet. Improved blood flow can contribute to the relief of pain and discomfort associated with poor circulation.
Relaxation and Stress Reduction:
Reflexology is known for its relaxing effects. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, reflexology may indirectly help alleviate tension and pain in the feet. Stress and tension can contribute to various foot issues.
Nerve Function Stimulation
The application of pressure on specific reflex points is thought to stimulate nerve function. This stimulation may help reduce pain signals and promote a sense of comfort in the affected areas.
Promotion of Energy Flow:
According to reflexology principles, energy flows through the body along specific pathways. By working on reflex points, practitioners aim to balance and enhance the flow of energy, which may contribute to pain relief and improved well-being.
Holistic Approach
Reflexology takes a holistic approach, considering the interconnectedness of various body systems. By addressing imbalances in the body through the feet, it aims to promote overall health and potentially alleviate foot pain.
If you’re interested in learning about pressure points on your feet, Cloud Massage offers information along with a chart here.
#3 Magnesium For Headache Pain
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, and some studies suggest that magnesium supplementation may be beneficial for certain types of headaches, particularly migraines. Here are some ways in which magnesium may be relevant for headache pain:
Vasodilation and Blood Flow
Magnesium is involved in the regulation of blood vessels, and a deficiency may contribute to vasospasm (narrowing of blood vessels). Migraines are often associated with vasodilation followed by vasospasm. Magnesium’s role in promoting vasodilation may help alleviate migraine symptoms.
Neurotransmitter Regulation
Magnesium plays a role in the regulation of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, which are implicated in migraine pathophysiology. Modulating these neurotransmitters may help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines.
Muscle Relaxation
Magnesium is known for its muscle relaxant properties. Tension-type headaches, which can result from muscle tension in the head and neck, may benefit from magnesium supplementation by promoting muscle relaxation. By applying a topical Magnesium rub for pain to the forehead or back of the neck with the onset of a headache, pain can subside within 20-30 minutes.
NMDA Receptor Modulation
Magnesium helps regulate the activity of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Abnormal NMDA receptor activity has been linked to the development of migraines, and magnesium may modulate this activity, potentially providing relief.
Reducing Inflammation
Inflammation may contribute to headaches, and magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, magnesium may contribute to a decrease in headache intensity.
If you’re considering magnesium supplementation for headache relief, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional first. They can help determine the appropriate dosage and form of magnesium butter for pain, based on your specific needs and health status.
Getting Magnesium Through Your Diet
Magnesium can be obtained through dietary sources as well. Foods rich in magnesium include nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. However, most of us still require supplements to achieve adequate magnesium levels, especially if there’s a known deficiency.
For additional information on using Magnesium for Pain, along with a list of the top symptoms most people use it for, see our page here.
It’s crucial to note that the effectiveness of magnesium for headaches can vary among individuals. If you experience persistent or severe headaches, it’s important to consult with a trusted healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.