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With an estimated 52.5 million adults in the U.S. affected by arthritis alone and up to 24% of adults experiencing muscle pain during their lifetime, effective topical pain relievers can be life-changing. Also known as topical analgesics, these products include creams, gels, and rubs that can be crucial for those who endure temporary and chronic aches and pains right at the source of pain. The best muscle pain relief creams can either create a cooling or warming sensation that diminishes aches and pains quickly. They also can deliver anti-inflammatory ingredients directly where needed. However, the effectiveness of these creams can vary greatly depending on how severe the pain is, location and type of pain.
To better understand the differences in muscle pain relief creams, gels, rubs and roll-ons, we need to first understand what key ingredients to look for in the best arthritis pain relief creams and those for general muscle pains and strains. If you think your pain is more severe or is a chronic condition, please consult with your physician for guidance on how to address the source of the pain. For those minor aches and pains, we turned to our panel of pain-management experts to learn what key ingredients to look for and how they help manage pain. We also asked about what ingredients to avoid and which products are the best on the market. We then took their input and researched and tested more than 30 of the top-rated muscle pain relief creams and evaluated each based on key ingredients, how well it worked, if any skin irritation was present, the scent and cost. Keep reading to learn what our experts had to say and to see which products made the cut as the best muscle pain relief creams.
According to pain management experts, here are the best pain relieving creams of 2024.
Biofreeze
Cost: $12.54 for 4oz. | Key Ingredients: 5 % Menthol | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Cooling | Scent: Menthol, fades to neutral scent
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 ideal choice for quickly alleviating muscle soreness and discomfort.
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 warming sensation. As one reviewer noted, «Easy to apply and works fast. It definitely works great for lower back pain relief.» Another reviewer recommended it for sore joints and muscles, praising its minimal, pleasant smell and long-lasting effects.
- Fast-acting relief with cooling menthol formula
- Long-lasting relief for sore muscles, backaches, and joint discomfort
- Menthol scent fades to neutral after application
- Some individuals may be sensitive to menthol
- Formula can be sticky on the skin
- While it has a neutral scent, it’s not entirely odor-free
Tiger Balm
Cost: $6.88 | Key Ingredients: Camphor, capsicum, menthol | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Cooling | Scent: Strong, characteristic scent of camphor and menthol
Tiger Balm Ultra Strength Sprots Rub is a standout choice for the best budget-friendly muscle pain relief cream because a small amount goes a long way. It provides an immediate cooling effect and enduring warming sensation. Its active ingredients, camphor and menthol, work as counterirritants, effectively distracting you from your pain and providing quick relief.
Tiger Balm’s long-lasting effect is notable, adding to its appeal as an affordable choice. However, its strong scent and potential to stain clothing may be a drawback for some.
Customers appreciate the pain relief, performance, and value. They mention that it eases sore muscles and works exceptionally well. One customer review praised the fast relief: «Within 20 minutes, I forgot the pain was there in the first place.» Another customer was pleased with the size for the price: «A little goes a long way. I bought two because I couldn’t believe the price.»
- Immediate cooling effect provides fast-acting relief
- Enduring warming effect for long-lasting comfort
- A little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective choice
- Can stain clothing and linens due to its oily ingredients
- Some users may find the gel consistency can clump during application
- Strong scent might not be appealing to everyone
DoTerra
Cost: $28.49 for 4oz. | Key Ingredients: Wintergreen, camphor, peppermint, blue tansy, matricaria (German chamomile), helichrysum, ylang ylang, and osmanthus essential oils. | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Cooling initially, then warming | Scent: Strong, lingering scent
doTERRA Deep Blue Rub is our pick for the best cooling muscle pain relief cream because its unique blend of essential oils provides a natural, unique cooling, and warming sensation. This dual action is particularly effective for soothing sore muscles and joints, using the science of counterirritation to distract pain signals.
Its combination of natural plant extracts and other powerful ingredients is an enticing feature of doTERRA’s Deep Blue Rub. For instance, wintergreen oil contains a compound similar to aspirin, also known as acetylsalicylic acid. Putting wintergreen oil on your skin over painful areas can help reduce the sensation. Likewise, camphor is easily absorbed into the skin and stimulates nerve endings sensitive to cold, which causes a cooling sensation, relieving pain. These biological compounds provide a comforting sensation to targeted problem areas, sending relief where needed most.
Customers have praised the texture, performance, quality, and pain relief of doTerra’s Deep Blue Rub. They mention that it allows movement with minimal discomfort and that it works well for quite a while. However, opinions are mixed on smell and value.
One customer review stated, «This stuff is easy to use, at work or out and about. A little goes a long way. Can feel it working with the cooling relief.» Another customer shared, «It has a minty, cool fragrance that does not bother me. It does go on cold then as you rub it in, it turns warm. Since the nerve endings in my knees are very sensitive, the cold stings my skin at first, and I hold my breath, then as it warms up, I am fine. But get this product if you have any pains in the muscles and tendons. It really does work.»
- Infused with a variety of powerful essential oils
- Provides a comforting sensation of cooling and warmth to problem areas
- Moisturizing emollients leave skin soft and non-greasy
- The strong scent may linger longer than desired
- The cost may be higher compared to other muscle rubs
- The initial cooling sensation may be intense for some users
Rub A535
Cost: $9.48 for a 3.5oz tube | Key Ingredients: Methyl salicylate, menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Warming | Scent: Mild, not overpowering menthol scent
Rub A535 Muscle and Joint Heat Cream is the best extra-strength muscle pain relief cream because of its fast-acting and deep-penetrating formula. Its active ingredients, methyl salicylate, camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, provide immediate relief by creating a warming sensation on contact to alleviate muscle soreness and discomfort quickly.
What stands out about Rub A535 is that its formula contains 100% more pain-relieving ingredients than regular strength creams. Thus, it’s a powerful option for those with severe muscle and joint pain.
According to most reviews, the cream’s mild scent is not overpowering despite its strength, making it a comfortable choice for daily use. However, it’s worth noting that the cream may feel slightly sticky after application, and some people may feel the warming sensation is too intense.
- Fast-acting quick relief for sore, aching muscles and stiff joints
- Deep penetration works on contact, delivering concentrated warmth
- Contains 100% more pain-relieving ingredients than regular strength creams
- Some individuals may be sensitive to the active ingredients
- May feel slightly sticky after application
- Scent may be unappealing for some people
Icy Hot
Cost: $15 | Key ingredients: 16% Menthol, 11% camphor | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling | Scent: Mint
If you prefer a maximum-strength topical arthritis pain relief cream but don’t love the residue they often leave behind, consider Icy Hot’s Pro Cream. With 16% menthol and 11% camphor, this formula boasts one of the highest concentrations of active ingredients available without a prescription.
This no-mess option uses a massaging applicator with 54 individual nodes to deliver the cooling sensation exactly where you need it — without getting any product on your hands. Even better? The cream absorbs quickly and feels non-greasy.
One negative is the scent; due to the high menthol concentration, your nose and eyes may experience some irritation when applying to larger areas. To avoid this, apply in a well-ventilated area away from young children and pets.
- Mess-free application
- Absorbs quickly
- Non-greasy
- Strong scent
- May cause irritation
Humble
Cost: $34.99 for a 3.5oz tube | Key Ingredients: 1000mg Organic broad-spectrum hemp extract | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Neutral|Scent: Fresh, mild scent of lemongrass and sage
Humble Brands CBD Comfort Bar stands out as the best pain relief cream with CBD due to its soothing and moisturizing properties. The bar contains 1000mg of Organic Broad-Spectrum Hemp Extract, which is known for its potential anti-inflammatory benefits and ability to relieve muscle pain and tension.
Due to CBD’s interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system, it can help regulate the immune system and inflammation. According to a 2021 study, using CBD can make pain feel less unpleasant, and another trial showed significant reductions in intense pain using CBD oil on the skin. It’s best to seek advice from healthcare professionals to ensure the safety and effectiveness of topical CBD for your specific pain relief.
An admirable characteristic of the Humble Brands CBD Comfort Bar is its vegan and cruelty-free Leaping Bunny certification, which ensures that the product is effective and ethically produced. Also, the bar comes in earth-friendly paperboard packaging that breaks down in 2-5 months.
Customers have praised the Comfort Bar for effectively reducing chronic joint pain. One review stated, “This bar has helped my chronic joint pain (wrist/thumb). A couple quick swipes, and within a few minutes the pain is reduced.” Another customer appreciated the design of the bar, saying, “My Comfort Bar is great because it pops up for me to use and glides on, I don’t have to get it all over my hands. It has the best smell of any of my CBD products too!”
- Soothing and moisturizing
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Biodegradable packaging
- Some users find the lemongrass scent reminiscent of a citronella candle
- Slightly greasy and can potentially stain clothes
Dr. Bronner’s
Cost: $14.95 for a 2 oz container | Key Ingredients: Arnica, camphor, menthol, peppermint oil | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Cooling | Scent: Strong but pleasant, natural minty scent
Our choice for the best plant-based muscle relief cream is Dr. Bronner’s Arnica-Menthol Organic Magic Balm because of its potent blend of organic ingredients. The balm is known for its soothing properties, providing a cooling effect with a refreshing sensation for sore, overworked muscles and joints.
Arnica, one of the key active ingredients, is known to relieve pain. One review paper on topical herbal pain remedies found that applying arnica gel topically was equally effective as ibuprofen gel for reducing osteoarthritis pain and improving physical function. What’s more, the balm can perform multiple duties as a soothing and protective salve for dry or chapped skin.
Dr. Bronner’s is committed to using organic and fair-trade ingredients and works with fair-trade suppliers to implement earth-friendly and organic farming practices to help combat climate change. A clear commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing makes Dr. Bronner’s a feel-good choice.
Customers have praised the balm for its effectiveness in relieving pain, its pleasant smell, and the quality of its ingredients. One happy customer stated, “This stuff is fantastic. I carry one in my purse, one in my kids’ soccer medical kit, my husband has one in his golf bag and we have one at home. It works like nothing I have ever used. Not greasy and smells yummy!”
- Versatile for various uses, including soothing sore muscles and dry skin
- Non-greasy formula with no residue
- Effective, natural relief for back pain, joint discomfort, and growing pains in children
- Small size container can be inconvenient
- Price might be considered high for amount
- Scent, while pleasant to some, may be too intense for others
Aspercreme
Cost: $7.94 for a 2.7 oz tube | Key Ingredients: 4 %Lidocaine, Aloe Vera | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Neutral | Scent: Unscented
Aspercreme Pain Relief Cream with Lidocaine is the best pain relief cream with lidocaine due to its fast-acting and effective formula. Its active ingredient, Lidocaine, provides immediate relief by numbing the application area, making it an ideal choice for quickly alleviating muscle soreness and discomfort.
A 2024 study published in Anesthesiology showed that lidocaine cream could help with neck pain, particularly muscle-related pain. According to researchers, this is because the cream easily reaches the neck muscles, providing relief. Research also shows that lidocaine can help ease nerve pain in people with conditions like diabetes-related nerve damage, complex regional pain syndrome, cancer, and pain after breast surgery.
A much-appreciated feature of Aspercreme is its non-greasy formulation. Customers also value its effectiveness, ease of use, and odor-free nature. One reviewer noted, «I injured my thumb and wanted a non-greasy cream to help ease the soreness. This has worked well for me. It’s easy to rub in, nongreasy, and doesn’t have a strong odor.»
- Effective numbing formula contains 4% Lidocaine
- Non-greasy, non-staining
- Unscented for those sensitive to scents
- May not be as effective as lidocaine patches for some people
- May not work on deeper muscle pain
Blue Emu
Cost: $29.76 for a 12 oz tub | Key Ingredients: Emu oil, aloe vera, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), glucosamine | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Neutral | Scent: Odor-free
Blue Emu Deep Soothing Original Cream is our pick for the best splurge-worthy pain relief cream because of its potent blend of pain-fighting ingredients and luxurious feel. The cream’s emu oil is a powerful carrier for essential oils and topical, allowing other ingredients like aloe vera, MSM, and glucosamine to absorb readily for effective, faster relief.
Research in the National Library Of Medicine suggests emu oil has anti-inflammatory properties. When applied to the skin, it can reduce pain and aid in healing inflamed joints and wounds with antibacterial properties. Another ingredient, MSM, has been shown to effectively reduce inflammation. However, some people can find MSM irritating when applied to the skin. The cream is made in the U.S.A. and is covered by some flexible spending and health savings accounts, but check with your policy provider to be sure.
- Effective and fast-acting pain relief
- Absorbs quickly into skin
- Antibacterial properties
- Some people may be allergic to emu oil
- Risk of side effects such as skin irritation
Cymbiotika
Cost: $56.00 for 2oz tub | Key Ingredients: Calendula oil, ginger oil, menthol crystals, pineapple enzymes (bromelain), turmeric oil, vitamin E oil | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Neutral | Scent: Gentle, minty scent
Cymbiotika Ultimate Pain Balm is the best pain relief cream for sensitive skin due to its powerful blend of natural ingredients and ability to provide fast and targeted relief for pain and discomfort.
One of the active ingredients, bromelain, derived from pineapples, has been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it effective for pain, soft-tissue swelling, and joint stiffness associated with osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee and shoulder. Ginger is also commonly used for conditions such as burns, muscle pain, menstrual cramps, joint stiffness, and inflammation.
The Ultimate Pain Balm is formulated to address a bevy of pain-related issues, including sore muscles and joint pain, minor aches, muscle pain, and skin-soothing properties. So, it’s a versatile and helpful product to have on hand for managing conditions such as tension headaches, menstruation, and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Provides relief from sore muscles and discomfort
- Stimulates blood flow and circulation for healing
- Helps alleviate inflammation-related issues
- Available primarily online
- Expensive
Voltaren
Cost: $19.22 for 5.3 oz tube | Key Ingredients: 1% Diclofenac sodium (NSAID) (equivalent to 0.93% diclofenac) | Cooling, Warming, Neutral: Neutral, slightly cooling | Scent: The gel does not have a strong scent
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is the best muscle relief cream for arthritis due to its FDA-approved formulation and ability to relieve arthritis pain effectively. The 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.
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an FDA-approved formula that the company claims works two times longer than other over-the-counter products, so it’s an accessible solution for managing chronic arthritis pain at home. Not to be overlooked, the gel comes with the Arthritis Foundation Commendation for the Easy Twist Cap, so sore and weak joints aren’t aggravated by trying to use the product.
It is worth noting that there are risks involved with using diclofenac sodium products, including Voltaren. Using too much or layering the product can lead to side effects and health issues, so speak to your doctor before using Voltaren to ensure it’s a good choice, and always follow the instructions on the label for use.
Customers have praised the gel for its performance, quality, and absence of a pungent smell. They appreciate that it helps ease pain, reduces aching and throbbing, and continues working for hours. One customer review stated, “My wife and I both have arthritis issues (at different locations, however); after immediately applying the gel to those painful areas for a few days we both felt some pain relief using Voltaren.”
- FDA-approved prescription strength over-the-counter pain reliever
- Clinically proven to relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility
- Cooling effect with isopropyl alcohol to cool the skin, providing additional relief
- Delayed relief may take up to 7 days to feel significant relief
- Frequent application four times per day for optimal results
- Must be used correctly to avoid side effects and risks
What to consider when buying muscle pain relief creams
When shopping for pain relief creams, there are a few things to consider to ensure you choose a product that best suits your needs and preferences. Determine your ideal active ingredients, scent, cost, and whether the cream has a cooling or warming effect before choosing so you’re more likely to be satisfied with the results.
Active ingredients
The active ingredients in a pain relief cream are crucial as they determine the product’s effectiveness. According to Dr. Leia Rispoli, a double-board-certified interventional pain management specialist and anesthesiologist at DISC Sports & Spine Center, the choice of topical agent really comes down to the source, character, and location of pain. “Those with knee pain secondary to osteoarthritis will likely benefit from an anti-inflammatory topical agent. Those with referred pain from a neuropathy or nerve issue may benefit from a CBD topical agent. Those with generalized muscle aches or cramps may benefit from anti-inflammatory, lidocaine, or CBD topical creams/agents,” she explains.
Formulas include lidocaine or other effective ingredients, such as methyl salicylate and menthol or camphor, and alternative options like arnica and CBD. Each ingredient targets different types of pain (i.e., joint, muscle, or nerve), so a combination of various active ingredients is typically beneficial. It’s also important to note that some pain relief creams use salicylates, a type of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), to block a key enzyme in the inflammation process.
Scent
The scent of a pain relief cream is another crucial factor to consider and one that comes up in many customer reviews. While it may seem trivial, a strong or off-putting scent can make using the cream unenjoyable. Some people may prefer a product with a strong scent, while others may select a fragrance-free option. Be cautious in using products that have fragrances, as they may cause skin irritation, especially for people with sensitive skin.
Cost
The cost of a pain relief cream can vary widely depending on the brand, the active ingredients, and the size of the product. It’s essential to consider your budget and how often you plan to use the cream when deciding which product to purchase.
Cooling or warming
Pain relief creams can have a cooling or warming effect. Dr. Francisco Contreras, Director of Oasis of Hope Medical Institute, explains that cooling creams often contain ingredients like menthol and camphor, which provide a soothing, cooling sensation. Warming creams, on the other hand, may contain ingredients like capsaicin, which creates a warming sensation that can help to soothe muscle aches and pains. The choice between a cooling or warming cream will depend on your preference and the type of pain you are experiencing.
How we chose the best muscle pain relief cream
In our quest to identify the best pain relief cream, we consulted with two renowned experts in the field of pain management: Dr. Francisco Contreras, an oncologist, surgeon, and Director of Oasis of Hope Medical Institute, and Dr. Leia Rispoli, a double-board-certified interventional pain management specialist and physiatrist at DISC Sports & Spine Center. They gave us a deep understanding of the key ingredients to look for in a pain relief cream, the potential side effects, and the benefits of using such products.
Armed with expert advice, we researched several products, focusing on their active ingredients, scent, cost, and whether they had a cooling or warming effect. We also considered other factors, such as the brand reputation, customer satisfaction, value for money, packaging, and any unique features that set the product apart. This rigorous approach has enabled us to provide reliable and trustworthy recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do pain relief creams work?
Pain relief creams work by delivering active ingredients directly to the affected area. These ingredients can create sensations like cooling, warming, or numbing, which distract from pain signals. Some creams include anti-inflammatory agents like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. They are effective for providing temporary relief from minor aches and pains associated with conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, or sprains when applied to the affected area.
How do arthritis pain relief creams work?
Dr. Gendai Echezona, a triple board-certified anesthesiologist specializing in interventional pain management, says arthritis creams are applied to the skin over painful joints and are absorbed through the skin to provide temporary pain relief. “The mechanism of action varies based on the ingredients in each cream,” she says. Some creams work by blocking pain signals, while others may increase blood flow or reduce inflammation. “Anesthetics, such as lidocaine, block pain signals from nerves, inducing a numbing effect,” Echezona adds. “Counterirritants like menthol create a cooling or numbing sensation on the skin, potentially blocking pain sensation.”
What key ingredients should I look for in a pain relief cream?
When choosing a pain relief cream, focus on ingredients like menthol for cooling, capsaicin for reducing pain signals, camphor for numbing, lidocaine for local anesthesia, and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac for inflammation. Arnica reduces swelling and bruising, while CBD offers analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Can pain relief creams cause side effects?
Pain relief creams can cause side effects, although these are generally mild and temporary. Some individuals may experience skin irritation like redness or itching. Rarely, allergic reactions may occur, leading to swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. To minimize risk, follow product instructions carefully. Stop using the cream and consult a healthcare professional if you have adverse reactions.
Meet our expert panel
Francisco Contreras, Oncologist, Director of Oasis of Hope Medical Institute
Leia Rispoli, Double-board-certified interventional pain management specialist and physiatrist
Gendai Echezona, Fellowship-trained, triple board-certified anesthesiologist specializing in interventional pain management and lifestyle medicine
John Gallucci, physical therapist, athletic trainer and chief executive officer of JAG Physical Therapy
Matthew Cavanaugh, chiropractor at Cavanaugh Chiropractic Clinic
Zeeshan Ahmad, pain and spine specialist at OSF HealthCare
