Muscle pains and strains can hinder your daily activities and disrupt your workout routine. Thankfully, there is a quick-acting solution for muscle pain relief: topical analgesics. Topical analgesics, more commonly known as pain relieving creams, can swiftly alleviate pain and get you back on your feet, enjoying life once again. These powerful pain relievers are excellent for both acute and chronic pain treatment, working by quickly absorbing into the skin where the pain is present to provide immediate comfort to sore muscles and joints. The best pain relief creams come in varying consistencies—creams, gels, roll-ons, and rubs—and work in different ways, including creating a numbing cooling sensation or soothing warming sensation, or simply delivering anti-inflammatory ingredients directly where needed without the cooling or warming sensations.
The effectiveness of these creams can vary significantly depending on the chemical composition, location, and type of pain. To better understand what to look for in the top-rated pain relief creams, we consulted with a panel of pain management experts to learn what key factors to consider, whether cooling or warming creams are better, and if there were any ingredients, products, or brands to avoid. We took the experts' feedback and evaluated more than 30 topical pain relievers, rating each product based on cost, active ingredients, the cooling or warming sensation reviews, proven effectiveness, customer satisfaction, brand reputation, and ease of use.
After rigorous evaluation, we have identified 11 of the best pain-relieving creams available on the market today. However, it is important to note that these are temporary fixes to pain and discomfort and do not address the root cause of chronic or severe pain. If your pain persists, please consult your doctor for guidance on treating the source.
Biofreeze Professional Strength Pain Relief Gel
Biofreeze Professional Pain Relief Gel is the best overall muscle pain relief cream due to its fast-acting and long-lasting formula. Its cooling menthol and camphor provide immediate relief by interfering with the body’s pain signals, making it an excellent choice for quickly alleviating muscle soreness and pain. One bonus feature of Biofreeze is the inclusion of aloe and vitamin E, which help soften the skin. Customers appreciate the gel's effectiveness, ease of use, and cooling sensation.
Tiger Balm Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Ointment
Tiger Balm Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Ointment is a standout choice for the best budget-friendly muscle pain relief cream. A small amount goes a long way, and at under $7 a jar, it provides a powerful, long-lasting rub that won't break the bank. Its active ingredients, camphor and menthol, work as counterirritants, effectively distracting you from your pain and providing quick relief. Customers appreciate the pain relief, effectiveness, and value of Tiger Balm.
DoTerra Deep Blue Rub
DoTerra's Deep Blue Rub is our pick for the best cooling muscle pain relief cream. Its unique blend of essential oils provides an all-natural cooling and warming sensation for fast, soothing relief. The dual action sensation is particularly effective for soothing sore muscles and joints, using the science of counterirritation to distract pain signals. The Deep Blue Rub's appealing feature is its combination of natural plant extracts and potent active ingredients.
Rub A535 Maximum Strength Heating Cream
Rub A535 Muscle and Joint Heat Cream tops our list as the best extra-strength muscle pain relief cream due to its rapid-acting and deep-penetrating formula. Its active ingredients, methyl salicylate, camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, provide immediate relief on contact to alleviate muscle pain and discomfort quickly. Despite its strength, the cream has a mild fragrance and is not overpowering, making it a great choice for daily use.
Icy Hot PRO Pain Relief Cream
Icy Hot's Pro Cream is ideal for those who prefer a maximum-strength pain relief cream without the residue often left behind. With 16% menthol and 11% camphor, this formula boasts one of the highest concentrations of active ingredients available without a prescription. The no-mess massaging applicator delivers a cooling sensation precisely where you need it without getting any product on your hands.
Humble CBD Comfort Bar Topical Balm
Humble Brands CBD Comfort Bar is the best pain relief cream with CBD due to its fast-acting, soothing, and moisturizing properties. The bar contains 1,000 mg of Organic Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract, known for its potential anti-inflammatory benefits and ability to relieve muscle pain and tension. The Comfort Bar is vegan and cruelty-free, with earth-friendly packaging that breaks down in two to five months.
Dr. Bronner’s Arnica-Menthol Organic Magic Balm
Dr. Bronner's Arnica-Menthol Organic Magic Balm is our choice for the best plant-based muscle relief cream due to its exceptional blend of natural pain-relieving ingredients. The balm is known for its soothing properties, providing a cooling effect with a smooth sensation for sore, overworked muscles and joints. Customers praise the balm for its effectiveness in relieving pain, its pleasant scent, and the quality of its ingredients.
Aspercreme With Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream
Aspercreme With Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream is our top pick for the best pain relief cream with lidocaine due to its fast-acting and highly effective pain-relieving ingredients. Its active ingredient, lidocaine, provides instant relief by numbing the application area, making it a great choice for quickly alleviating muscle pain and discomfort.
Blue Emu Muscle and Joint Deep Soothing Original Analgesic Cream
Blue Emu Deep Soothing Original Cream is our pick for the best splurge-worthy pain relief cream due to its powerful combination of ingredients and luxurious feel. The cream's emu oil paired with ingredients like aloe vera, Methylsulfonylmethane, and glucosamine, quickly absorbs into the skin for effective, fast relief.
Cymbiotika Ultimate Pain Balm
Cymbiotika Ultimate Pain Balm is the best pain relief cream for sensitive skin due to its potent blend of natural ingredients and ability to provide fast and targeted relief for pain and discomfort. Its combination of pain-relieving ingredients makes it a standout choice, especially for those seeking all-natural relief for their sensitive skin.
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is our top choice for an arthritis pain relief cream due to its FDA-approved ingredients and ability to effectively relieve arthritis pain. Its active ingredient, diclofenac sodium, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that temporarily blocks the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins, treating pain at the source.
How to Choose the Best Pain Relief Cream
When choosing a pain relief cream, consider the active ingredients, the type of pain you are experiencing, the cooling or warming sensation, the cost, and the scent. Active ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, camphor, lidocaine, and NSAIDs are crucial for effectiveness. The choice between a cooling or warming cream depends on your preference and the type of pain. Also, consider your budget and whether you prefer a scented or unscented product.
How to Use Pain Relief Creams
Pain relief creams work by delivering active ingredients directly to the affected area, creating sensations like cooling, warming, or numbing, which distract from pain signals. Some creams contain anti-inflammatory agents to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. They are effective for providing quick relief from minor aches and pains related to conditions like arthritis, muscle strains, or sprains.
Pros and Cons of Pain Relief Creams
Pros: Pain relief creams provide quick, localized relief without systemic side effects. They are easy to apply, non-invasive, and can be used multiple times a day. Cons: Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions. Pain relief creams may not be effective for deep muscle or joint pain and are generally temporary solutions that do not address the root cause of chronic pain.
Ease of Use
Pain relief creams are generally easy to use. Simply apply the cream to the affected area and gently massage it in. Most creams are non-greasy and absorb quickly into the skin. Some products come with no-mess applicators that make the application process even more convenient. It’s important to follow the instructions on the label for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are pain relief creams safe for everyone? While pain relief creams are generally safe, individuals with preexisting medical conditions, skin sensitivities, allergies, or chronic health issues should consult with a healthcare professional before using these products.
2. How often should I apply pain relief creams? Many topical creams can be applied daily or multiple times a day. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the product label and not overuse the cream.
3. What key ingredients should I look for in a pain relief cream? Look for ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, camphor, lidocaine, and NSAIDs. These ingredients target different types of pain and can be effective in various combinations.
4. Can pain relief creams cause side effects? Pain relief creams can cause mild side effects like skin irritation. Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Follow the product instructions carefully and consult a healthcare professional if you experience adverse reactions.
5. How do pain relief creams work? Pain relief creams work by delivering active ingredients directly to the affected area, creating sensations that distract from pain signals or reducing inflammation. They provide quick relief for minor aches and pains.
Conclusion
Pain relief creams offer a convenient and effective way to manage minor muscle and joint pains. With a variety of options available, it's essential to choose a product that suits your specific needs and preferences. By considering the active ingredients, the type of pain, the sensation, cost, and scent, you can find the best pain relief cream for you.
Remember, while pain relief creams can provide temporary relief, they do not address the underlying causes of chronic pain. For persistent or severe pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Incorporating a high-quality pain relief cream into your routine can help you stay active and enjoy your daily activities without the interruption of pain. Choose the best product for your needs and experience the relief you deserve.
Don't let muscle pain hold you back. Try one of these top-rated pain relief creams today and experience the difference for yourself. Consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about using these products.
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