Originally Posted by mrsD

I don't think you need both forms of epsom salts... use either one or the other.

Some magnesium is absorbed from both forms... soaking and lotion. I personally think the lotion is vastly superior, as I have used the epsom salts for YEARS. The lotion works for me like a miracle.

You can even make a concentrated solution and only make compresses of it, if you don't want to soak in water, or can't because of the location. On vacation one summer I did this for my right knee, and MP pain. It worked really well. But it needs at least an hour and recharging of the cloth you use to apply it.
I kept the compress on for at least 15 minutes, and used about 6 oz of epsom salts to 1/2 gallon of warm water in a little tub/pan.
I did this outside on the dock. (we don't have running water there and hence no bathtub to soak in.) The sun exposure kept things warm for a good time period too.