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Best arthritis pain relief cream of 2024, according to experts
Arthritis affects one in five adults in the United States. It is also a leading cause of work disability, with an estimated $300 billion spent annually on medical care and lost wages, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While there are over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions, Dr. Gendai Echezona, a fellowship-trained, triple board-certified anesthesiologist specializing in interventional pain management, tells AOL, “Those affected by arthritis may experience stress, mood changes, disrupted sleep, and fatigue affecting their overall health and happiness,” adding that, “Implementing lifestyle modifications and medical treatments can contribute to alleviating pain and improving quality of life.”
Biofreeze Cream
Best overall arthritis pain relief cream
Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub
Best budget-friendly arthritis pain relief cream
Icy Hot PRO No-Mess Pain Relief Cream
Best extra-strength arthritis pain relief cream
Equilibria CBD Relief Balm
Best arthritis pain relief cream with CBD
Tylenol Precise Cooling Pain Relieving Cream, Maximum Strength
Best cooling arthritis pain relief cream
Penetrex Warming Pain Relief Cream
Best warming arthritis pain relief cream
Treefrog Topical Pain Relief
Best splurge-worthy arthritis pain relief cream
Aspercreme Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream with Aloe
Best arthritis pain relief cream for sensitive skin
Bengay Pain Relieving Lidocaine Cream
Best arthritis pain relief cream with lidocaine
Being that arthritis pain can leave you feeling constantly drained and can prevent you from enjoying simple tasks like walking, typing, or opening a jar, we spoke to our panel of medical experts (board-certified doctors, surgeons, joint-pain specialists, chiropractors, and physical therapists) about what over-the-counter arthritis pain relief options were best for managing pain. With their input, we researched more than 35 cream-based products designed to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with arthritis. Each was evaluated based on factors such as active ingredients, ease of application, cost, brand reputation and customer reviews. Below are our top picks for the best arthritis pain relief creams, according to expert guidance and meticulous research.
Best arthritis pain relief cream of 2024
Cost: $12 | Key ingredients: Menthol 10% | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling | Scent: Mint
Biofreeze products have long been a pain relief staple, but the Menthol Cream packs more benefits than its gel counterpart. With a 10% menthol concentration, this cream provides a powerful cooling sensation to relieve stiff, achy joints instantly. It's NSAID-free (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug), so it's not as harsh on the skin as some.
Nearly 13,000 Amazon shoppers give it an average 4.6-star rating, many citing its effectiveness for arthritis specifically. “It won’t leave residue on your clothes and can be applied up to four times a day,” says John Gallucci Jr., chief executive officer of JAG Physical Therapy and expert in sports medicine, rehabilitation, and injury prevention.
Since Biofreeze cream is a concentrated solution (10% menthol is on the higher side), it's not recommended for people with sensitive skin. Be sure to test a small patch before applying to larger areas, and if irritation occurs, discontinue use. However, this cream may be your new best friend if you can tolerate it.
If you would prefer an alternative to cream, Biofreeze also makes a pain-relieving roll-on that is a favorite of AOL's health editor, April McCormick.
- NSAID-free
- Non-greasy
- Replenishes moisture barrier
- Strong scent
- May cause skin irritation
Cost: $14 | Key ingredients: Menthol 11%, camphor 11% | Cooling, warming or neutral effect: Warming | Scent: Light mint
This pump bottle makes it especially easy for arthritis pain sufferers to use, and you may not want to stop using it, thanks to its low per-ounce price. While it's labeled as a rub, the Tiger Balm formula is more of a cream-mousse hybrid in consistency. Squeezing out just the right amount won't be an issue.
But it's the camphor and menthol that make this product stand out. The warming rub, which can help increase blood flow to stiff joints, has an 11% concentration of each active ingredient. “At 11%, these counterirritants produce a soothing surface irritation to the area of application that is strong enough to disrupt the pain signals from arthritis, which allows you to complete your everyday activities with less pain,” says Matthew Cavanaugh, a chiropractor at Cavanaugh Chiropractic Clinic in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Don't worry about smelling like a medicine cabinet; the little odor it does have quickly dissipates after application. However, be cautious when applying after bathing or when the skin is wet, as this may increase the warming effects and cause irritation. The manufacturer recommends avoiding water one hour before and after using the product.
- Non-drying
- Easy-use pump bottle
- Scent is relatively light
- May cause temporary redness
Cost: $15 | Key ingredients: Menthol 16%, camphor 11% | 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
Cost: $45 | Key ingredients: Full-spectrum hemp oil, menthol, arnica, rosemary | Cooling, warming, neutral effect: Cooling | Scent: Light natural
Equilibria's Relief Balm contains menthol, arnica and 500 milligrams of full-spectrum CBD, delivering a cooling sensation and anti-inflammatory benefits. CBD (short for cannabidiol) is a compound found in cannabis or hemp plants that has shown promising pain-relieving properties. While Equilibria's balm contains less than 0.3% THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis), it's a full-spectrum product containing all the beneficial plant compounds — including trace amounts of THC.
The product is free of gluten, GMOs and synthetic fragrances and has several moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter. You can save 25% as a subscriber with each Equilibria shipment. Plus, the company offers free consultations with wellness coaches to help you find the right amount of CBD to control your pain.
Reviewers say the balm works quickly and effectively and also note that a little goes a long way, making the higher price tag worth it. However, the one-ounce container may not last long if used multiple times daily. As with any CBD product, it's important to consult with your doctor before use, especially if you are taking other medications or have any medical conditions. Ships to all 50 states, United States territories and military bases.
- CBD all-natural pain relieving properties
- Discounts for subscribers
- Replenishes skin’s moisture barrier
- Pricey
Cost: $13 | Key ingredients: Lidocaine 4%, menthol 1% | Cooling, warming, neutral effect: Cooling | Scent: Mint
Tylenol is a consumer favorite for pain relief, and its new Precise Cooling Pain Cream only solidifies its spot on our list. This cooling cream combines the pain-fighting powers of lidocaine and menthol to deliver fast-acting relief with a refreshing sensation.
The cream is non-greasy and absorbs quickly, making it an excellent option for on-the-go application at work and during travel. The rollerball applicator allows you to target pain precisely thanks to the multiple steel ball bearings that help distribute the lotion evenly, though, the small application tip, which can make it challenging to apply to larger areas like the hips. However, smaller areas like the hands, wrists, and neck are easy to target — which may be exactly what you like about it.
- Non-greasy
- Mess-free application
- Rollerball for targeted relief
- small roller-ball not great for large areas like the hips
Cost: $22 | Key ingredients: Capsaicin, arnica, MSM | Cooling, warming, neutral effect: Warming | Scent: Light
Penetrex's Warming Pain Relief Cream is a vegan formula that aids in soothing muscle and joint pain with the use of capsaicin, arnica and MSM. Capsaicin has been shown to reduce pain signals, while arnica is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is an organic sulfur compound that may decrease swelling.
Reviewers say the scent of this cream dissipates quickly, making it ideal for those sensitive to strong smells. “This formula is not menthol based, so it is also a great option for those who do not enjoy menthol’s strong scent and chilly sensation,” says Gallucci. It's also safe to use up to three times a day.
Since it contains capsaicin derived from chili peppers, the warming sensation may feel intense for some users. Sweat and water can increase the warming effect, so don’t use them before exercise or after a shower. Still, the hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon speak to its effectiveness.
- Vegan
- Light dissipating scent
- Can use up to three times daily
- Should avoid using before sweating and physical activity
Cost: $40 | Key ingredients: Symphytum officinale extract 10X, rosmarinus officinale extract 1X, menthol, camphor | Cooling, warming, neutral effect: Cooling | Scent: Cinnamon
For those willing to splurge on a high-quality, all-natural pain relief cream, Treefrog's Topical Pain Relief Cream contains powerful ingredients like Symphytum officinale extract, also known as comfrey, which has been used for centuries to relieve pain and inflammation. Other noteworthy ingredients include rosmarinus officinale extract (commonly known as rosemary), menthol and camphor.
The product itself is light, non-greasy, and absorbs within minutes, leaving a soft, silky feel. The scent of cinnamon is refreshing and not overpowering, and it doesn't have a strong menthol smell despite containing menthol.
Another perk of this cream is its eco-friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing of ingredients. The product is also vegan and cruelty-free. It's worth mentioning that it leaves a slight red hue on light-colored skin after application, but this dissipates quickly.
- All-natural
- Long-lasting
- Absorbs quickly
- Leaves a slight red hue on skin
- Contains alcohol, which may irritate some skin types
Cost: $11 | Key ingredients: Trolamine salicylate 10% | Cooling, warming, neutral effect: Neutral | Scent: Fragrance-free
Aspercreme has been a trusted name in household pain relief since the late 1900s, and chances are you've already heard of it. But if you haven't tried its Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream yet, it's definitely worth considering for your arthritis-affected joints.
The cream contains 10% trolamine salicylate, a topical pain reliever that targets and inhibits pain receptors. Upon application, the active ingredient begins working within minutes and provides relief for hours. “Aspercreme is odor-free, which is a pro for those sensitive to smells and cannot have fragrance on their skin,” says Gallucci. It's also non-greasy and dries quickly.
While it has no added ingredients for extra benefits besides aloe leaf juice for moisture, the product comes in a generous 5-ounce tube (compared to competitors' average of 4 ounces). The flip-top cap also eliminates the struggle of opening a tube or jar with achy wrists and hands. However, you should be aware that the salicylate content may still irritate some, as those with sensitive skin can potentially have a reaction to any topical pain reliever.
- Non-greasy
- More product than competitors (5 oz)
- Flip-top cap for easy application
- Contains salicylates, which may irritate some
Cost: $8 | Key ingredients: Lidocaine 4% | Cooling, warming, neutral effect: Neutral | Scent: Tropical jasmine
Healthcare professionals often use lidocaine, the active ingredient in Bengay Lidocaine Cream, as a topical anesthetic for minor procedures. So, it's no surprise that this pain reliever has 6,000+ positive reviews on Amazon. The cream contains 4% lidocaine, the FDA-approved maximum strength for over-the-counter use. This makes it excellent for those with moderate to severe arthritis pain.
The cream numbs the pain receptors in the affected area within minutes. It's not tacky and doesn't leave residue or a sticky feeling on the skin. For best results, apply a thin layer and wait 10 minutes before going about your day. The cream penetrates your skin within seconds and provides relief for several hours or longer. Plus, you can apply it up to four times daily for flare-ups or more severe discomfort.
One of the main downsides of this product is that it contains an added fragrance — a tropical jasmine scent. While this may be pleasing to some, others with sensitive skin or noses may find it irritating. Some users also report the cream being on the thin side in consistency, but this isn't necessarily a deal-breaker for most.
- Maximum strength formula
- Numbs pain quickly
- Can use up to four times daily
- Contains added fragrance
- Thinner consistency than other creams
What to consider when buying arthritis cream
Active ingredients:
Dr. Zeeshan Ahmad, pain and spine specialist at OSF HealthCare, says you should pay attention to the active ingredients in your pain creams. “Some of the most common ingredients used to help with back, neck and joint pain include capsaicin, menthol, lidocaine, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory substances.” These ingredients work to either block pain signals or reduce inflammation, providing relief.
Warming, cooling or neutral effect
Depending on the ingredients in the cream, it can give a sensation of either warming, cooling, or no effect at all (neutral). “Capsaicin application produces a warm, burning sensation locally before it produces some relief. Menthol produces a cold sensation locally and helps with pain,” Ahmad says. “Lidocaine is an anesthetic medicine which reduces pain by making the area numb.” Diclofenac sodium is an example of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug used topically to reduce pain and inflammation.
Scent:
Your preferred scent depends on personal preference and any sensitivities you may have. Some creams come in scented versions, while others are relatively odorless. Many of the popular over-the-counter (OTC) options have a natural scent related to the active ingredients. For example, menthol and camphor products have a distinct minty smell and capsaicin creams tend to have a spicy aroma. Be aware that added fragrances can potentially irritate sensitive skin — and are just not necessary in terms of a product's effectiveness.
Side effects:
Side effects are possible with any medication, including topical pain relievers. Ahmad says the most common side effect is skin irritation, which certain ingredients or preservatives can cause. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, check the ingredient list before purchasing and spot test on a small area of your skin first. In rare cases, some active ingredients may cause more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions or skin burning. If you experience any adverse reaction, discontinue use and consult with a healthcare professional.
“Remember that anti-inflammatory medicines are also known to cause blood thinning. So, if someone is already taking blood thinners and on top applies arthritic creams to half or more of the surface of their body, then the risk for internal bleeding would be high,” Ahmad says. If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, make sure to consult with your doctor before using.
Application:
Consider the packaging type, size and dispensing method when deciding. For example, some creams come in tubes or roll-ons, while others have pumps or flip-top caps. These options can all impact how easy it is to apply the product, especially if you have limited mobility or dexterity in your hands. Also, consider the product size and how often you plan to use it. Some creams come in smaller packages and require more frequent application, while others come in larger bottles and may not need to be used as often.
Cost:
Topical pain relievers can range from a few dollars to over $50, depending on the brand and ingredients. Keep in mind that the price may also reflect the product's quantity, with more expensive options sometimes containing more ounces or a higher concentration of active ingredients.
Cooling:
Some topical pain relievers provide a cooling sensation, which can be soothing for those with joint pain or inflammation. “In acute injuries, like falling in sports, ice is applied,” Ahmad says. “This is because the goal is to prevent or reduce swelling from bleeding, thereby helping with pain.” However, cold may not be ideal for everyone, especially those who live in colder climates, have sensitive skin, or have neuropathy (nerve damage causing chronic numbness). “Be careful in people with diabetes who have decreased sensations due to neuropathy. For them, preferably use heat and limit it to 10 to 15 minutes with a 20-minute gap in between,” Ahmad advises.
Warming:
“Chronic pains usually respond better to warmth, but if cold works better, there are no contraindications to this,” Ahmad explains. Warming creams can help increase blood flow and relax muscles, making them popular for arthritis or muscle pain relief. However, they may not be suitable for sensitive skin or conditions such as eczema or psoriasis. As with cooling products, consider your skin type and sensitivity to warmth before purchasing.
How we chose the best arthritis pain relief cream
To determine the best arthritis pain relief creams, we consulted with pain and joint experts, including doctors, chiropractors and physical therapists, to learn more about the most effective OTC ingredients for pain relief. We also researched and analyzed customer reviews, ingredients and product claims to ensure our recommendations are backed by evidence and user experience. Finally, factors like cost, scent, consistency and potential side effects were considered to provide well-rounded and comprehensive recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do arthritis pain relief creams work?
Dr. Echezona 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.”
Are arthritis pain relief creams safe for everyone to use?
Not all topical pain relievers are safe for everyone. Some may contain ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin or cause allergic reactions. It's important to read the ingredient list carefully and consult your doctor if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Additionally, pregnant women and children shouldn't use certain topical pain relievers without first consulting with their doctor. Always follow the recommended usage and safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
What key ingredients should I look for in an arthritis pain relief cream?
Key ingredients to look for include diclofenac, salicylates, menthol, capsaicin, lidocaine, or CBD, says Echezona. “It’s important to note that individual responses to these treatments may vary. For instance, capsaicin or menthol may induce sensations like burning or cooling, which might be uncomfortable for some patients.”
How often should I apply arthritis pain relief creams?
Echezona says many topical creams can be applied daily or even multiple times a day. “Each product comes with instructions regarding the recommended frequency of use.” However, it's crucial to follow these instructions and not overuse the product. Overuse may increase the risk of side effects or decrease its effectiveness in relieving pain. Ask your doctor for guidance if you have any concerns or questions about how often to use a particular cream.
Meet our expert panel
Gendai Echezona, MD, 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 in Lafayette, Louisiana
Zeeshan Ahmad, pain and spine specialist at OSF HealthCare in Urbana, Illinois
