[Marlene]

Ditto on Neil's short answer. Unfortunately, the issues around magnesium can get quite complicated. Mag is just one of the electrolytes that plays a role in muscle cramping/tension.

Oral magnesium may not get absorbed or utilized properly. And there are other cofactors that help magnesium do its job, like B6.

Transdermal magnesium tends to do a better job on muscles than oral in my case. I like the sodium chloride lotion. Works well for John too.

Make sure you are well hydrate. Less than optimal hydration can cause joint and muscle pain too. But be sure not to over-hydrate since that will throw your electrolytes out of balance. Contrary to what most think, sometimes you have to increase your salt intake in order for your body to hold onto the water you drink. My sodium blood serum levels are at the very end of low normal. If you drink water and pee it our right away, it's just passing through and not really hydrating your cells. So we use a good celtic sea salt because it has many beneficial trace minerals in it Be sure to get Chem Panel so you see what your sodium, chloride, potassium and calcium are. Your doctor will need to request they check your magnesium separately since it's not included in a chem panel.