Most people that struggle with arthritis are often desperate to obtain relief for their condition. The irritated joints can trigger a fair bit of discomfort and hamper movement. If you have arthritis, you most likely seek as many pain relief choices as practicable.
If you are reading this, then you have probably already attempted to do exercises for managing arthritis pain to no avail. Likewise, there are over the counter (OTC) painkillers that one can take orally. The latter contains ibuprofen and other non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. Unfortunately, these treatments are often not enough and not always convenient.
If the predicament mentioned above pretty much describes the situation that you are in, then you may want to consider to try a topical cream to alleviate your condition.
In this article, we go over some of the essential things that people ought to know about the use of pain relief cream for arthritis . Only then can you decide if it is the answer to managing what ails you.
What can arthritis creams do for you?
Now before you scour the Internet for the best arthritis cream in the market , it would be judicious to learn a thing or two about how it works.
Arthritis creams assist in relieving joint discomfort when applied to the skin. Their effects are short-term but useful nonetheless. Arthritis creams are typically beneficial for minimising pain in joints that lie merely below the surface area of the skin.
The main pain-relieving active ingredients in arthritis creams include the following:
- Salicylates
- Counterirritants
- Capsaicin
The active ingredients mentioned above alleviate discomfort by obstructing the skin’s nerve receptors. These active ingredients help in decreasing pressure and pain in the joints. Some brand names of arthritis creams also include other active ingredients such as menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, and cinnamon oil.
How to use arthritis creams safely?
Arthritis creams seem simple enough to use; rub a small amount unto the afflicted area and experience relief. Nevertheless, one must still be mindful about its’ proper use.
For one thing, you would want to make sure that you follow the directions and precautions that come with the arthritis cream. After all, the manufacturers know their products best.
How often should you use arthritis creams?
It is generally recommended that you limit application up to a maximum of 4 times a day unless the directions say differently. Like all things, applying them in excess can have adverse effects on the skin such as swelling and skin irritation.
To be safe, cease the use of arthritis cream if you notice any ill effects on your skin. In some cases, people may have an adverse reaction to the active ingredients commonly found in arthritis creams. Also, your doctor might advise that you avoid using arthritis cream entirely if you are on blood thinning medications.
Indeed pain relief creams can prove invaluable to managing the pain and discomfort caused by arthritis. That said, it is essential to use it the right way and be mindful of any contraindications. Anything less might worsen your condition or lead to long-term complications.