My grandparents loved Limburger and onion sandwiches, nothing worse than Grandma wanting to give you a big old kiss on the cheek after eating a Limburger cheese and onion sandwich. :(
When I feel one starting, I immediately jump up and stretch my calf as straight as I can get it. If I am quick enough I prevent it from completely tightening and it shortens the pain length. I have never used rubbing alcohol for them. We do use it as a mold release at work though.