The role of magnesium in pain

Magnesium (Mg), often called “the master mineral”, found abundantly in the body, is a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems regulating biochemical reactions, including protein synthesis, muscle and nerve function, blood glucose control, and blood pressure regulation. 

An adult body contains about 25g Mg of which nearly 60% is in the bones, 40% in soft tissues and less than 1% in blood. 

The beneficial effects of magnesium treatment have also been demonstrated in patients suffering from myalgia (muscle pain) and neuropathic pain (such as fibromyalgia, post-herpetic neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy). In addition, magnesium therapy has been shown to be effective in alleviating dysmenorrhea, headaches, and acute migraine attacks.

Mechanism of magnesium as an analgesic adjuvant

Magnesium plays an important role in the prevention of central sensitization and in the attenuation of established pain hypersensitivity, and its main mode of action appears to involve its voltage-gated antagonist action at N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Given the putative function of the NMDA receptor in pain transduction, magnesium has been investigated in various clinical conditions associated with acute or chronic pain.

Increased intracellular calcium levels seem to play a major role in the initiation of central sensitization.

Although magnesium has no direct analgesic effect, it inhibits calcium ions entering cells by blocking NMDA receptors, which causes an antinociceptive effect. Furthermore, this antinociceptive effect is related to its prevention of central sensitization caused by peripheral tissue injury. Central sensitization is the result of the enhancement of neuronal properties in nociceptive pathways of the central nervous system, and is triggered by repetitive nociceptive afferent inputs, which manifests as a prolonged reduction in the pain threshold, thereby leading to pain hypersensitivity.

Forms of Magnesium

Different forms of magnesium offer various benefits for pain relief. Here are the most effective ones:

1. Magnesium Chloride – Common in topical applications (lotions, sprays, baths) for muscle soreness and joint pain relief.
2. Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) – Helps with muscle aches and inflammation when used in baths.
3. Magnesium Glycinate – Best for muscle relaxation and reducing chronic pain, as it is well-absorbed and has calming effects.
4. Magnesium Malate – Useful for fibromyalgia and muscle pain due to its role in energy production.
5. Magnesium L-Threonate – Supports nerve health and may help with neuropathic pain.

For general pain relief, magnesium sulphate and magnesium chloride are among the most recommended forms.

Evidence and Research

Numerous clinical studies have investigated the use of magnesium for pain management, with some showing promising results, especially for neuropathic pain and post-operative pain. However, more research is needed to fully understand the role of magnesium in pain management and to optimize its use in various pain conditions.

Considerations

Magnesium supplementation should be discussed with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are taking other medications. While generally safe, high doses of oral magnesium can cause side effects, such as diarrhoea or nausea. Magnesium levels should also be monitored in individuals with kidney problems.  

Topical magnesium are a good way to gain the anti-analgesic benefits of magnesium. You can consider Zanskar Magnesium Headache Roll on or Zanskar Magnesium Pain Spray for your discomforts.

Magnesium rich foods are also a good idea to naturally increase your magnesium levels. 

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Medical Review: This article is written by Dr Nishtha Mittal (Senior Health Content Editor at Zanskar Health) and has been medically reviewed by Dr Rashi Goel (Senior Physiotherapist at Zanskar Health). This article and its contents are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional services specific to you or your medical condition.