Top Over the Counter Creams to Deal With Arthritis

52.5 million people are estimated to be impacted by arthritis. It is a condition that leaves patients dealing with chronic and debilitating pain. There are different types of over-the-counter products and remedies available that can be used to manage the symptoms. However, seeking proper treatment is paramount to ensure the condition does not affect the patient’s quality of life. Various treatment options, over-the-counter creams, and home remedies can be used to manage these symptoms and complications.
Exercise
Studies suggest that consistently clocking in some form of physical activity helps manage arthritis symptoms. Indulging in activities that do not put sudden and intense pressure on one’s joints helps reduce pain and discomfort. Strength training, walking, swimming, and other similar activities are highly recommended. It is also advisable to seek consultation from a physical therapist to learn exercises and movements that could decrease the pain and increase the range of motion of the affected joints.
Hot and cold therapy
If one is looking for an easy remedy to employ on their own, hot and cold therapy can help with arthritis pain. The process starts with employing hot therapy by using hot compresses over the affected areas. If compresses are not preferable, one could use hot baths and showers to get similar benefits. An alternate option is using electric heating pads. The increased temperature in contact with the affected area results in reduced pain and stiffness.
Cold therapy decreases the level of joint pain and inflammation the patient is experiencing. Cold temperature also brings down the swelling of the joints. It is advisable to use ice packs wrapped in a cloth on the affected region. This is to be done for 15-20 minutes or until the area has grown numb. A bag of frozen vegetables or a frozen water bottle can also be used instead of ice packs. Freezing a wet hand towel is an equally effective remedy.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is another way of treating arthritis pain. This alternative treatment option is effective in addressing pain and disabilities. Continued use of this therapy can significantly improve pain levels in patients. Although the improvement might not be monumental, it can help improve the current condition. That said, there is a need for more research to be conducted on the subject for concrete results.
Compression gloves
Arthritis patients trust their compression socks and gloves to save their joints from growing stiffer during the night. As opposed to splints, gloves allow a better range of mobility for the wearer and are capable of preventing intense pain. In fact, compression clothing has proven to be able to provide some amount of pain relief and improve the functioning of arms, wrists, feet, and legs.
There are a few more natural remedies that can be practiced at home and can produce significant results for patients. However, there may be times when immediate pain relief is of the highest priority. In such cases, patients can turn to over-the-counter creams and gels that they can procure from any chemist around them. Creams patients will find will generally contain anesthetics, capsaicin, or salicylates. These compounds are what provide the creams with their pain-relieving ability. One will also be able to find pain-relieving patches at some pharmacies. It is helpful to be aware of some commonly available over-the-counter products that can provide much-needed relief.
Biofreeze Professional Pain Relief Spray
Biofreeze Professional Pain Relief Spray is easy to use and readily absorbs into the skin. Its menthol content imparts a cooling sensation that also contributes to the pain-relieving factor of the product. One can find this product in a pharmacy around or in online stores that deliver to one’s exact location. If a person prefers gels, the product is also available in the form of a roller-ball rub that can be used on the affected area. However, it will only be able to provide temporary relief from the pain and may be more effective in combination with other remedies.
Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub
Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub is an all-natural formula that is easy and safe to use. The budget-friendly product is highly recommended for joint and muscle ache relief. Its menthol and camphor content helps deal with redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. The cooling effect of these compounds helps find some relief from the pain that arthritis brings. It is also available in a pump bottle, making it easy to use. Although it is a herbal concoction and is safe to use, it is best to avoid using it on broken skin, open wounds, and inflamed skin.
Bengay Pain Relieving Cream
One of the least expensive over-the-counter creams for arthritis, Bengay Pain Relieving Cream is also one of the most effective options. It can help relieve muscle soreness and minor aches and pains, and the compound may also prove effective against some muscle and joint fatigue. Bengay contains three pain-relieving ingredients, namely camphor, menthol, and salicylates.
Naturopathica Arnica Gel
Also known as nature’s aspirin, arnica is a natural herb well-acknowledged for its pain-relieving property. The Naturopathica Arnica Gel also contains menthol, making it all the more effective against painful and sore joints and muscles. Massaging a dime-sized quantity onto the affected area can go a long way. It can be safely used on sensitive skin and dries off without leaving behind any greasiness.
Icy Hot Vanishing Gel
Made up of menthol and salicylates as its primary ingredients, Icy Hot Vanishing Gel is yet another over-the-counter arthritis cream that can provide immediate pain relief. When applied to affected areas, the cream imparts a cooling sensation. This is soon followed by heat that helps reduce pain and soreness in the bones and joints.
When purchasing over-the-counter products for arthritis pain relief, look for compounds like camphor, eucalyptus oil, cinnamon oil, and menthol. Chemicals like lidocaine can also help since they numb the surface and will result in decreased pain. Most creams will have some amount of cooling agents in them. The relief these products will provide is usually short-lived and may need to be reapplied sometimes.