12 Best Topical Cream for Pain and Inflammation 2022
Chronic joint pain affects almost one-quarter of people worldwide. Common joints affected include the knees, hands, elbows, shoulders, back and elsewhere. In most cases, this is caused by the most common type of arthritis, osteoarthritis.
The issues surrounding the complexity of pain management have contributed to increased demand for alternative pain treatment option. One such method is to increase the usage of topical pain relievers. In theory, this nonoral treatment has the advantage of local activity and fewer systemic side effects.
What is the main cause of joint pain?
Joint pain is a very common issue that can have a variety of reasons, but it is usually the result of an injury or arthritis. Joint discomfort that worsens over time is frequently a marker of osteoarthritis in the elderly. It can affect one joint or many.
What ingredients are good for pain and inflammation?
Despite the fact that they are all intended to ease pain, different products use different ingredients.
– Counterirritants. Menthol, methyl salicylate (evergreen oil), and camphor are among the ingredients. They can produce a burning or cooling sensation that will take your thoughts away from the pain.
– NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in topical form. They should not be used if you are also taking oral NSAIDS.
– Lidocaine. It comes in the form of a gel or a patch that is applied to the sore area. If you have liver problems or take heart rhythm medications, consult your doctor first.
– Arnica. Arnica-containing topical products are another option. Arnica is a sunflower family herb whose flowers are used medicinally to treat stiffness and pain.
– Salicylates. Some creams include the same chemicals that give aspirin its pain-relieving effects. They may aid with pain when absorbed into the skin, especially in joints near to the skin, such as the fingers, knees, and elbows.
– Capsaicin. Capsaicin, the active element in hot chili peppers, is also one of the most efficient ingredients for topical pain relief.
Best Topical Cream for Pain and Inflammation
Arnica
1. Penetrex Joint and Muscle Therapy Cream
2. DULÀC Arnica Gel Cream Maximum Strength
Counterirritants (Menthol / camphor)
5. Bengay Ultra Strength Topical Pain Relief Cream
6. CareAll Muscle & Joint Vanishing Scent Gel
Topical NSAIDs
7. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel
Lidocaine
8. Aspercreme with Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream
9. Hemorrhoid Topical Numbing Cream 5% Lidocaine with Hemp Oil
Other
A. Arnica Topical Cream
Is arnica an anti inflammatory cream?
Yes. Several Arnica species contain an anti-inflammatory compound. This is believed to ease pain, stiffness, and bruises. It is generally given to the skin topically.
1. Penetrex Joint and Muscle Therapy Cream - Best Muscle and Joint Relief Cream
– Penetrex Pain Relief Cream
– Intensive Concentrate for Relief & Recovery
Ratings
Penetrex Pain Relief Cream Reviews
2. DULÀC Arnica Gel Cream Maximum Strength
The very high concentration of Arnica montana extracts (35%) makes our Arnica gel cream ideal for massages dedicated to bruise, swelling and discomfort in muscles and joints. Enriched with essential oils of mint and eucalyptus, which refresh the area for a long time giving topical relief. atural formula, suitable even for the most sensitive skin of babies. Salve without parabens, without mineral oils, without silicones
– Made in Italy.
– Dermatologically tested and have a natural formulation
– Muscle and Joint relief
– Perfect for insect bites | Goodbye itching!
Ratings
Dulac Arnica Gel Cream Reviews
3. Brookethorne Naturals Relief Arnica Cream
Our All Natural Relief Arnica Cream can help to provide you with some much needed relief & relaxation. Arnica has been used for many years as a natural remedy for muscle aches & pains, stiff joints, bruising & more. Our formula is highly concentrated, allowing for maximum effectiveness.
Some of nature’s best remedies for muscle pain and soreness have been combined to create this effective body cream. Essential Oils of Arnica Montana, Eucalyptus, Lemongrass & Rosemary work together to provide natural relief.
This product is ideal for:
– The Active Lifestyle (Runners, Weightlifters, Cyclists & More…)
– Massage (Great for massage therapy & home use)
– Joint Pain Relief & Muscle Soreness
– Bruising & Swelling
Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 700 global ratings
Brookenthorne Naturals Relief Arnica Cream Reviews
I use this on my back, my feet, and any other muscle that I pull, strain, or overuse. This all natural product works well in reducing pain and inflammation. I also like the scent.
4. Kneipp Arnica Joint & Muscle Intensive Cream
Kneipp arnica cream contains arnica tincture for a powerful dose of botanical soothing benefits released by nature. Overworked, exhausted muscles and pangs don’t stand a chance against this intensive solution. It is easy to apply and fast acting so you can get back to your schedule.
– Vegan and contain no harmful preservatives, parabens or mineral oils.
– Soothe and comfort joints and muscles
– Best pain relief cream for joint pain
Benefits of Arnica Extract
– Help reduce pain related to sore muscles and joints
– Help heal bruises faster
– Aid in reducing swelling and inflammation
– Help speed recovery
– Help ease joint stiffness and aches
– Help reduce swelling from insect bites
Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 400 global ratings
Kneipp Arnica Muscle Pain Relief Cream Reviews
I was looking for a non-greasy cream to alleviate sore muscles and joints ‘the day after’ all day gardening work. This cream is non-greasy once worked into the skin and my muscles did not feel sore the next day. Arnica is known to help with bruised skin. Will buy this again and check out other products offered by Kneipp.
Sent it to a friend recently and it was a great success
B. Counterirritant Cream
5. Bengay Ultra Strength Topical Pain Relief Cream
4-ounce tube of non-greasy Bengay Ultra Strength Topical Pain Relief Cream to ease backaches, minor arthritis, muscle, and joint pain. Topical analgesic contains three pain-relieving ingredients—camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate, for ultra-strong relief in a non-greasy cream. Bengay is a physician-recommended OTC topical analgesic. Contains more pain-relieving ingredients than any other Bengay product.
– Non Greasy
– Relieves the minor aches and pains of muscles and joints
Ratings
6. CareAll Muscle & Joint Vanishing Scent Gel
Contains Active Ingredient: Menthol 2.5%. Temporary relief from the minor aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with backache, arthritis, strains, bruises and sprains.
– Fast Acting: This Non-Greasy Pain-Relieving Cream is easily absorbed by the skin and formulated to provide quick relief.
– Deep penetrating: This cream penetrates deeply to aid with pain associated with backache, arthritis, strains, bruises, and sprains.
Ratings
C. Topical NSAID Cream
What is NSAIDs?
Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Often called as NSAIDs, it is contain a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent and are designed to be applied directly to the skin overlying a painful joint or area of bone. They are used to relieve pain and to treat symptoms of arthritis such as inflammation, swelling, and stiffness. (Source)
NSAIDs side effects | Are topical NSAIDs safe?
Topical NSAIDs are less likely than oral NSAIDs to cause gastrointestinal side effects or to interact with other medications, although elderly people may be more susceptible to these effects. Short-lived, mild redness at the site of application is the most commonly reported side effect. (Source)
7. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for Topical Arthritis Pain Relief
Voltaren arthritis pain gel cream contains diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Diclofenac works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.
While most topical arthritis pain relief products heat or cool the surface of the skin, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel treats the pain. The Voltaren emulgel formula, which combines a cream and a gel, penetrates deep through the skin to deliver powerful arthritis pain relief. When applied to the skin it creates a cooling and moisturizing effect. That’s the Voltaren difference – topical arthritis pain relief when and where you need it.
– No Prescription Needed | Topical anti inflammatory cream over the counter
Ratings
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Reviews:
D. Lidocaine Cream
Is lidocaine cream safe?
Is numbing cream safe?
Topical lidocaine is typically safe when used sparingly and as advised. Misuse, overuse, or overdose, on the other hand, can result in a variety of serious health issues.
But if you have concerning side effects, stop using it and consult to your doctor.
Can you buy lidocaine cream over the counter?
Lidocaine come in many different forms, such as ointment, creams, gels, and most of them are available over the counter.
8. Aspercreme with Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream
One (1) 4.3-ounce bottle of Aspercreme with Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream. Topical numbing creme with 4% lidocaine targets more pain receptors to numb away minor pains with no irritation or burning Among counterirritant topical pain relievers.
– Fast acting Formula
– Fragrance-free and non-greasy.
– Where to Use: Back, Neck, Shoulder, Knee, Elbow, Hand, Wrist, Foot
Ratings
Aspercreme with Lidocaine Reviews:
9. Hemorrhoid Topical Numbing Cream 5% Lidocaine with Hemp Oil
Maximum dose for non-prescription anesthetic treatment. Combining a proprietary lidocaine with HEMP oil provides an extra degree of numbing and comfort allowing you to heal quicker. Great for different sections, hemorrhoid, local and anorectal pain.
Enhanced with hemp oils – Hemp oil is known for its pain relieving benefits. With our proprietary blend of maximum strength lidocaine and HEMP oil, the hemp can alleviate the swelling, itching, and pain as well relaxing the general area. At the same time the lidocaine will treat the hemmorhoid.
– Fast Acting
Ratings
Aspercreme with Lidocaine Reviews:
E. Other Topical Creams for Pain and Inflammation
10. Topricin Pain Relief Therapy Cream
Topricin is moisturizing, non-irritating, odorless and non-staining. It supports the body’s natural processes that work to Heal the Cells Causing the Pain. Topricin has 22-years of history in the medical community and is used by hundreds of thousands all over the world.
Topricin contains 11-natural biomedicines delivering reliable pain relief, improving quality-of-life, and providing a strong adjunct to professional care with no side effects and won’t interfere with other medications
The safest alternative for people who cannot tolerate prescription and non-prescription OTC oral pain medication. It stimulates and supports your body’s desire to “”Heal the Cells that are Causing the Pain””. Topricin is safe effective and ideal treatment for the entire family and for all skin types.
– Topricin Pain Relief Cream
– Best cream for muscle knots
Ratings
4.4 out of 5 – more than 4,800 global ratings
Topricin Pain Relief Therapy Reviews
It works wonders on the muscle knots in my shoulders.
11. Heel Traumeel S Ointment Cream - Best Pain Relief Cream for Joint Pain
Ratings
Traumeel S Ointment Cream Reviews
12. Boiron Calendula Burn - Topical Burn Relief Ointment
Calendula Burn works naturally with your body, and there’s no risk of overdose, no contraindications, no known drug interactions, and a very low risk of side effects when used as directed.
– Awarded the Parent Tested Parent Approved (PTPA) Seal of Approval
– Indication : Naturally treats minor burns.
Ratings
Boiron Calendula Ointment for Minor Burn Reviews
FAQ
How Can I Stop Joint Pain?
What Causes Chronic Knee Pain?
Physical conditions or diseases can cause knee pain. These include:
- osteoarthritis: pain, inflammation, and joint destruction caused by degeneration and deterioration of the joint
- tendinitis: pain in the front of the knee that is made worse when climbing, taking stairs, or walking up an incline
- bursitis: inflammation caused by repeated overuse or injury of the knee
- chondromalacia patella: damaged cartilage under the knee cap
- gout: arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid
- Baker’s cyst: a buildup of synovial fluid (fluid that lubricates the joint) behind the knee
- rheumatoid arthritis (RA): a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disorder that causes painful swelling and can eventually cause joint deformity and bone erosion
- dislocation: dislocation of the kneecap most often the result of trauma
- meniscus tear: a rupture in one or more of the cartilage in the knee
- torn ligament: tear in one of the four ligaments in the knee — the most commonly injured ligament is the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
- bone tumors: osteosarcoma (second most prevalent bone cancer), most commonly occurs in the knee
How Can I Get Rid of Inflammation Naturally?
Researchers have identified certain foods that can help control inflammation. Many of them are found in the so-called Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fish, vegetables and olive oil, among other staples.
Many people who have followed the AIP diet report improvements in the way they feel, as well as reductions in common symptoms of autoimmune disorders, such as fatigue and gut or joint pain. Yet, while research on this diet is promising, it’s also limited.
The AIP diet is an elimination diet designed to help reduce inflammation or other symptoms caused by autoimmune disorders.
It’s comprised of two phases designed to help you identify and ultimately avoid the foods that may trigger inflammation and disease-specific symptoms. Research on its efficacy is limited but appears promising.
Due to its limited downsides, people with autoimmune disorders generally have little to lose by giving it a try. However, it’s likely best to seek guidance from a qualified health professional to ensure you continue to meet your nutrient needs throughout all phases of this diet.
Is pain relief cream safe?
These treatments are generally considered safe for the majority of people. If you’re on blood thinners, stay away from creams with salicylates as the active ingredient, as they can cause bleeding and bruising. Pain relievers should not be used on children under the age of four.
Burning, itching, or a rash at the application site are all possible side effects. If you have a rash or irritation on your skin while using a pain reliever cream, stop using it and visit your doctor if the problem doesn’t go away in a few days.
Do pain relief creams work?
While you won’t get the same level of pain relief with an OTC pain reliever as you would from a prescription medicine or an oral pain reliever, these treatments can help with minor joint and muscular pain. They’re particularly effective for arthritis pain, bursitis, tendonitis, overused muscles, bruised or swollen joints, and minor strains and sprains.