5 Options for Topical Pain Relief

Any kind of pain is your body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right. It is common to experience muscle pain and joint pain in everyday life. But because our responsibilities cannot take a backseat, it is good to have something that can provide you pain relief and allow you to carry on with your daily activities with ease.

One such category of medications that makes pain relief possible is topical pain relievers. In this blog post, we will discuss what topical pain relievers are, when you should use them, and the various options you can choose from. So, let’s begin!

What are Topical Pain Relievers and When to Use Them?

Topical pain relievers are medications used to treat pain. These medications are applied topically, directly on the skin where the pain resides. As these medicines are not taken orally, they have fewer side effects because they are not absorbed in the bloodstream. However, they can be just as effective as oral medications in relieving pain.

You can use a topical pain relief medication for conditions like:

• Muscle pain
• Joint pain
• Sprain
• Strain

Because of their ability to ease muscle and joint pain, topical pain relievers are often used to treat pain associated with arthritis.

Common Ingredients in Topical Pain Relief Medications

Topical pain relievers can have one or more active ingredients that work against pain. Your pain relief medication can have any of the following ingredients:

• NSAIDs
• Counterirritants
• Capsaicin
• Lidocaine

Some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like diclofenac, are often used in topical pain relief medications. These medicines are absorbed in the skin and help in reducing pain and inflammation at the site.

Then there are counterirritants like menthol and methyl salicylate, which give you a cooling or burning sensation when applied. They trick the mind and divert the attention from pain towards the cool feeling.

In addition to the above, there is another ingredient called capsaicin, which is found in chilli peppers. It creates a warm tingling sensation when applied and is useful for joint pains.

And finally, we have lidocaine, a local anaesthetic that works by numbing the skin. It is commonly available as gel. You can also find it as an ingredient in topical pain relief patches.

Types of Topical Pain Relief Medications

Pain Relief Spray

These are one of the most convenient pain relief options available. Sprays work best for difficult-to-reach areas such as your back. The medication is absorbed quickly when applied in a spray form, allowing you to get immediate relief.

The spray is great for targeting specific areas of the body without leaving any oily residue behind. Plus, there is minimal chance of product contamination as none of the product comes in contact with bare hands. Buy a pain relief spray if you want quick pain relief!

Pain Relief Gel

Gels are another option for pain relief. These are mostly water-based products and can be helpful in treating shoulder or back pain. 

Gel formulations typically contain counterirritants like menthol to create a long-lasting cooling sensation for relief. They are less greasy compared to creams and ointments and get absorbed sooner. Gels are also less likely to transfer to your clothing, so you can apply them even when you’re out and about.

Pain Relief Cream

Compared to ointments, creams have a lighter consistency, allowing easy and smooth application. They give a more comfortable feel than ointments, which are usually thicker. 

Creams work well for surface-level pains as well as deep pain in the joints. Based on the active ingredient, creams can either produce a warming or cooling sensation to mask pain and offer relief.

Pain Relief Ointment

An ointment is an oil-based product that has a thicker consistency than gels and creams. It stays on the skin for long durations, allowing gradual effect of the medication. 

Ointments are suitable for dry skin and great for when you would like to massage the affected area. Your hands can glide easily over the skin when using an ointment, facilitating blood flow and relaxation.

Pain Relief Patch

A patch is a medicated adhesive patch that can be applied to the skin for pain relief. You can stick it on the affected area where it delivers medication gradually over time. Patches allow you to administer medication without messing your hands and are great for discreet pain relief. 

You can carry them easily in your bag and use them when the need arises. Many patches are free of ingredients like fragrances and the like, making them ideal for people with sensitive skin. 

Choose a pain-relief patch if you are dealing with sore muscles, back pain, or chronic pain in your body. You won’t have to worry about reapplying the medication every few hours.

Deciding Which One is Best for You

Choosing the right topical pain relief medication must be based on your needs and preferences. Determine where the pain is, how fast you want relief, and which dosage form works best for you.

Normally, gels and creams work best in areas where you would not want to restrict movement. For example, your knee, ankle, or elbow. Choose an ointment if you want to massage the area for some time to speed up healing. Or, get yourself the best pain relief spray if you want quick relief in hard-to-reach areas of your body.

For relief in flat parts of your body, such as your back or neck, use a pain relief patch to help you get better. 

How to Safely Use Topical Pain Relief Medicines

Here are some tips to safely use topical pain relievers:

1. Read the label carefully and use the medication as directed.

2. Never use a heating pad when you have applied a topical pain reliever.

3. If you notice any side effects, such as rash, call your doctor.

4. In case you have an open wound, do not apply the pain reliever to it.

5. Never apply the medicine close to your eyes or genitals.

6. Avoid applying too much of the product as it can cause a heightened burning or cooling sensation, which can feel uncomfortable.

Final Word

Topical pain relief medications are a convenient way to ease mild to moderate muscle and joint pain and sprains at home. However, one must use them with caution, as overuse can often lead to problems like chemical burns or rash.

So, the best way to ensure safety is to use it for no more than seven days at a stretch. If your pain doesn’t get better in this time frame, we suggest you see a doctor. You would benefit from a proper diagnosis and the advice your doctor will provide you with.

Looking to buy affordable topical pain relief medications but don't know where from? Check out our Dawaa Dost website, where we make quality and reasonably priced medicines accessible to all!

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any health condition.

Sources:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/topical-pain-relief-what-is-it-and-how-does-it-work

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/topical-pain-relievers