Smart Shopping for Pain Relief Creams
Topical pain relief is available in the form of creams, lotions, gels and patches to provide localized pain relief to a desired body part. These forms of topical pain relief are often used by high school, college and professional athletes, but they are also popular among individuals with arthritis and "weekend warriors," individuals who are not normally active that indulge in strenuous activities over the weekend such that their bodies feel significant soreness. Topical pain relief substances come in various forms:
1) creams that produce a sensation of cold or hot
2) creams made from capsaicin
3) creams made with salicylates referred to as topical analgesics
4) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory gels, and
5) local anesthetic patches.
What to Look for
If you need temporary relief from muscle pain, counter-irritant creams such as Icy Hot or FlexAll might give you relief. These substances normally have a strong odor which is derived from substances such as wintergreen or menthol. If you have significant pain in your joints, you might benefit from capsaicin type creams as they specifically work on depleting the neurological substance associated with pain, substance P. Capsaicin is one of the trade names for these chili pepper derived creams. For individuals that respond well to aspirin, topical analgesic creams reduce joint inflammation. However, individuals that have an allergy to aspirin or are taking other blood thinners such as Coumadin should check with their physician prior to use. Aspirin-like topical analgesics are found under the trade names Sportscreme or Aspercreme.
Finally, there are certain topical pain aids that are available by prescription only. The two types include lidocaine, a local anesthetic patch, and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory cream, diclofenac. Due to their prescription only nature, a physician would be needed to guide the administration of these agents.
Common Pitfalls
Excessive chronic use of any of the topical pain relief aids could be fatal. In 2007, a young 17-year-old cross country track athlete in Staten Island, NY died from excessive use of pain relief cream. An autopsy confirmed large amounts of methyl salicylate in her body. Be sure to use topical pain relief creams, even over the counter (OTC) pain relief aids in moderation. Also, if chronic pain occurs, seek an evaluation from your physician to determine if your condition is worsening.
Member Comments
by mchen on April 3, 2009 at 10:29 PM
Very informative article. I had no idea that topical analgesics could be deadly. I liberally use Tiger Balm which contains methyl salicylate but has no restrictions on usage. After researching and reading more about the dangers of methyl salicylate, I now know that products with this ingredient should be used in limited amounts.
by mkarafon on June 12, 2009 at 2:38 PM
I highly recommend Traumeel, which is a plant-based, homeopathic analgesic that accelerates the healing process. No side effects, no overdosing, just healing and pain relief. The most effective treatment method is to combine the topical cream or gel with Traumeel tablets or oral drops. For severe injuries, there's even an injectible form that your doctor can administer. Most docs don't know about it, though, so you have to be your own advocate. You can find the OTC formulas in most health food stores like Whole Foods.