People who are suffering from joint or muscle aches often take oral medication to relieve the pain. Such medications, if used for a longer span, result in side effects like stomachic issues, drowsiness, or seizures in extreme cases. There is another solution to deal with body aches in the form of topical pain relievers.
In the market, various topicals are available for pain management. They are backed by different scientific studies that show that they have a more effective role in certain health conditions than orals. Here, we will discuss these products in detail, as well as their components and safety precautions.
What are the Components of Topical Pain Relievers?
Topical pain relief is generally composed of methyl salicylate, which provides a cooling sensation when penetrating the skin tissues. After its application, you start feeling numbness or a soothing effect that distracts the mind from joint or muscular pain.
Topicals that provide a warming sensation include capsaicin, which is extracted from chili pepper. Also, such ointments often contain a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug to reduce inflammation and related discomfort. Another common component is menthol, which reduces the sensitivity of our nerve endings with its cooling effect. With fewer sensations, our body starts experiencing mild pain.
When is a Pain Killer Ointment Beneficial?
Whether you go for cream, topical balm stick, or lotion, such topicals are beneficial only in specific conditions.
- People with arthritis are advised to use such ointment to relieve joint, spinal, or other pain.
- These creams are effective to use for muscle stiffness.
- Such numbness products are useful for athletes after strenuous training for muscle fatigue.
- They help recover from sprains and strains.
Common Types of Topical Pain Relievers
These topicals come in the following types:
- Sprays
- Gels
- Cream
- Patches
The ingredients of these types are almost the same, with little variation. However, they differentiate based on texture, application method, and scent.
Some people prefer sprays as they are easier to use, while others prefer patches. For deeper effect, creams, and gels work more effectively as they penetrate our skin tissues and also moisturize them.
Safety Precautions to Use a Pain Relief Cream
Follow all the instructions on the cream to get the desired results without any side effects. Generally, the following precautions are necessary for such topicals:
- Never apply a heat pad after massaging the cream on the skin.
- Avoid using such ointment over cracked skin or wounds.
- Stop immediately and remove the ointment in case of a rash appearance.
- Avoid using it during breastfeeding or pregnancy.
- Never apply it on your genitals or under your eyes.
FAQs
Q: When are topical ointments ineffective?
For chronic pain, such topicals are not recommended as they work for severe musculoskeletal pain.
Q: Are pain reliever creams more effective than patches?
This depends upon the target area where you want to use that topical for pain relief. Patches are easy to apply for back pain and stay there for a deeper effect. On the other hand, creams can be applied on the knee or other joints with a massage.
Q: For how long can I use a topical pain reliever?
Such products are not advised to be used for more than seven days because of the chances of chemical burns. However, you can use them for extended time after consulting your medical health provider.
Bottom Line
Topical ointment for pain is one of the most effective and harmless ways to manage pain without oral medications. Remember that such products take more time to show the desired results. In case of acute pain, you need to take certain painkillers prescribed by your medical health provider.
