Ointments or gels for muscle and joint pain, which we reach for in the event of injury, overtrained muscles or nagging pain caused by inflammation, have their advantages. Most are available over the counter. How to use them to make them effective?
Although the therapeutic effect of the ointment or gel is slightly weaker than that of oral medications, such a drug has an undoubted advantage: it works immediately, directly in the affected area, bypasses the digestive system and does not burden the liver and kidneys. It can be successfully used for less intense pain in muscles, ligaments, tendons or joints, in the treatment of post-traumatic inflammation, in relieving degenerative and rheumatic pain.
Gels and ointments for muscle and joint pain - reliable NSAIDs
The leading topical painkillers are gels, ointments and (aerosolized) lotions containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and salicylates.
These substances are absorbed through the epidermis, penetrate into the blood vessels of the dermis and are transported with the blood to diseased tissues, blocking the action of prostaglandins that increase inflammation and pain sensation.
Most NSAIDs penetrate the systemic circulation only marginally, so they are quite safe when it comes to interactions with other medications.
Gels and ointments for muscle and joint pain - natural substances
Natural substances are also helpful in relieving pain. They are often used additionally in preparations containing NSAIDs, as well as in specialized ointments with only natural ingredients.
These are, for example, menthol that has a cooling and anesthetic effect, viper venom that relaxes tense muscles and soothes spasms, reduces swelling, horse chestnut extract, warming oils: pine and turpentine oil or mountain arnica extract with warming and analgesic properties.
In warming patches, powdered iron, water, sodium s alt and charcoal are often used. Capsaicin, obtained from chili peppers, is also an effective warming substance.
Different varieties of the popular horse color, used, among others, in for muscle and joint pain, contain only plant extracts, incl. with: grapevines, horse chestnut, lemon balm, chamomile, eucalyptus, mistletoe, hops, valerian, pine, thyme, yarrow, juniper.
Gels and ointments for painmuscles and joints - be sure to read the leaflet
Pay special attention to contraindications and the possibility of allergic reactions. In order to achieve the desired effect and not to harm yourself, you need to scrupulously observe the frequency of use and dosage as for oral medications.
The recommended dose must not be exceeded or large areas of the skin must not be lubricated, as this may cause undesirable side effects caused by, for example, penetration of the preparation into the systemic circulation. These preparations must not be used on damaged skin, the mucous membranes and eyes should be protected, and hands washed after application (unless it is the hands that are treated).
Some ingredients, e.g. ketoprofen, St. John's wort extract, can cause a photoallergic reaction, so you must protect yourself from UV rays when using them.
Many preparations (e.g. containing diclofenac or naproxen) must not be applied simultaneously with occlusive (air-impermeable) dressings, with some you can use regular bandages, and with others - no dressings at all.
Worth knowingGels and ointments for muscle and joint pain - when consult a doctor
If you have doubts as to whether it is better to use a cooling or a warming preparation, consult your pharmacist. When the pain is not intense, reach for a preparation with a standard concentration of active substances; with a more severe one, you can choose a stronger version of the drug - it usually has the name "Max" or "Forte" supplements in its name.
Also remember the rule not to use several preparations with a similar composition and effect at the same time and not to underestimate the recommended treatment period (usually 1-2 weeks). If after this time the symptoms do not improve, worsen or develop new ones - see a doctor.