It's clear your daughter is dealing with a lot — the pain, MS hugs, and fatigue are some of the most challenging symptoms of RRMS. Magnesium is definitely worth exploring with her neurologist, especially given how it overlaps with several of her symptoms.
Here's what's currently understood about magnesium and MS:
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It's clear your daughter is dealing with a lot — the pain, MS hugs, and fatigue are some of the most challenging symptoms of RRMS. Magnesium is definitely worth exploring with her neurologist, especially given how it overlaps with several of her symptoms.
Here's what's currently understood about magnesium and MS:
- Magnesium is essential for nerve and muscle function, including the electrical signals that make muscles contract
- Magnesium deficiency can cause nervous system inflammation, which is already a core feature of MS
- Low magnesium may contribute to leg spasms and pain — several MyMSTeam members have reported real relief from spasms, including restless legs, after starting magnesium supplements
- Magnesium works hand-in-hand with Vitamin D, which is also important in MS — taking one without the other may reduce effectiveness Regarding the different forms of magnesium, here's a helpful breakdown:
- Magnesium oxide (400–800mg daily) — commonly recommended by neurologists for cramps and spasms, though less easily absorbed
- Magnesium citrate — better absorbed by the body, gentler on digestion
- Magnesium glycinate — also well-absorbed and typically the easiest on the stomach, often preferred for ongoing use
- Topical magnesium (sprays or creams) — some people find these helpful for localized muscle pain, though clinical research specifically in MS is limited
The research on magnesium directly aiding nerve recovery after a relapse or disability episode is still early and not yet conclusive. It hasn't been proven to reverse nerve damage in humans with MS, so expectations should be realistic. A few important cautions to keep in mind:
- Always get a blood test first — the only way to know if magnesium is actually low is through testing
- Too much magnesium can cause toxicity, as well as side effects like diarrhea, stomach cramps, and abdominal pain
- Magnesium supplements can interact with other medications, so her doctor needs to know before starting
- Food sources are generally preferred over supplements when possible — dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are all good sources
Given that your daughter is not currently on disease-modifying therapy, it would be especially worthwhile for her neurologist to do a full review of her current symptom management, including checking her magnesium and vitamin D levels.
May 14
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