When you are suffering from arthritis, whether it be rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, it is essential for you to have something on hand to help you deal with the pain and inflammation in your joints. Most people will use some kind of pain relieving pills to treat the problem, which they just swallow, and the pain goes away. However, taking drugs can prove to be problematic over time, since the side effects can be serious. Fortunately, there is a good alternative that can ease your misery with fewer side effects: a topical arthritis cream.
An analgesic cream formulated for arthritis pain relief is a topical painkiller which contains ingredients that penetrate deep into the skin. They are not just easy to use, most of them reduce the pain significantly. There are many effective creams and gels formulated specifically to deal with the pain of arthritis. These products are widely available and just require a quick rub to find quick relief. This article will delve into the various types of products available to help you decide which is right for you.
Some topical analgesic creams have a cooling effect while others will provide a sensation of heat. Some of the natural ingredients contained in products that provide a cooling effect include menthol, oil of wintergreen, and eucalyptus. These ingredients work by increasing blood flow to the affected area, which relieves minor aches and pains. When applied to the skin, the nerves are stimulated by the cold sensation which suppresses those that are experiencing pain. The initial sensation of coolness is followed by a warm tingling.
Creams that provide a burning sensation are typically made from a special ingredient found in chili peppers, called capsaicin, which is a natural pain reliever. It works by hindering the chemical responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain. Capsaicin can be a skin irritant, however, so monitor the situation closely.
There are other topical arthritis creams that behave like oral analgesics. These products usually contain salicylate, which is the active ingredient in aspirin, and are absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin to provide relief from joint pain. It is vital for you to be aware if this is the kind of product you are applying, as opposed to the heating or cooling type of cream. If you are allergic to aspirin or have another medical condition which prohibits its use, or if you are taking blood thinners, it is important to avoid these creams. As well, you should not take aspirin orally if you are applying it topically to the affected area, or you will accumulate too much of the drug in your system.
It is important to note that the pain relief provided by any of these products is only temporary. For this reason, you will need to apply the product periodically throughout the day, according to the directions. For some people this is impractical or just too much work.
Before you use any topical arthritis cream, it is important for you to consult your doctor for advice. There are people who stop taking prescription drugs for arthritis just because they found a new cream they like. This can be highly dangerous. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for relief of arthritis pain and you should be fine.
