Social Moms

Best Topical For Muscle Pain (2024 Update)

When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

If you’re looking for relief from muscle pain, a topical treatment might be just what you need. Topical treatments are applied directly to the skin and contain ingredients like menthol, camphor, or capsaicin to provide quick pain relief. However, before you start using any topical product, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you choose the best one for your needs.

First, consider the type of muscle pain you are experiencing. Is it due to an injury, overuse, or a chronic condition? Different topicals may be better suited for different types of pain. Next, consider any allergies or sensitivities you may have to certain ingredients, as some topicals may cause irritation or an allergic reaction. You’ll also want to take into account the potency of the product and the cost, as some options may be stronger or more expensive than others.

If you’re still unsure which topical to choose, ask yourself some questions to help guide your decision-making. Have you tried other pain relief methods before, like ice or heat therapy? Have you talked to a medical professional about your muscle pain? Are you looking for a top-rated product or one with the most affordable price? By answering these questions, you can narrow down your options and find the best topical for your specific needs.

10 Best Topical For Muscle Pain

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Ideal for providing concentrated relief to various pain points such as back, neck, hands, and feet through its herbal blend.
2
It is ideal for providing instant pain relief and numbing away arthritis, muscle sprain, joint, and back pain.
3
This product is ideal for relieving muscle pain, arthritis pain, sports injuries, chronic pain, and inflammation.
4
The product is ideal for providing instant numbing topical pain relief for muscle and joint pain.
5
Ideal for topical pain relief of sore muscles, arthritis, backache, and joint pain with its original green formula.
6
This product is ideal for relieving pain in muscles and joints caused by conditions such as arthritis, backache, strains, bruises, and sprains.
7
The product is ideal for relieving various types of pain including arthritis, neuropathy, back, knee, foot, muscle, and joint pain.
8
Ideal for relieving pain in muscles and joints caused by arthritis, backache, strains, bruises, and sprains.
9
It is an ideal topical analgesic product for fast relief from pain in the lower back, knee, and neck. HSA/FSA approved.
10
This product is ideal for relieving pain in knee joints, back, legs, feet, hands and arthritis with natural essential oils.
Ideal for providing concentrated relief to various pain points such as back, neck, hands, and feet through its herbal blend.
It is ideal for providing instant pain relief and numbing away arthritis, muscle sprain, joint, and back pain.
This product is ideal for relieving muscle pain, arthritis pain, sports injuries, chronic pain, and inflammation.
The product is ideal for providing instant numbing topical pain relief for muscle and joint pain.
Ideal for topical pain relief of sore muscles, arthritis, backache, and joint pain with its original green formula.
This product is ideal for relieving pain in muscles and joints caused by conditions such as arthritis, backache, strains, bruises, and sprains.
The product is ideal for relieving various types of pain including arthritis, neuropathy, back, knee, foot, muscle, and joint pain.
Ideal for relieving pain in muscles and joints caused by arthritis, backache, strains, bruises, and sprains.
It is an ideal topical analgesic product for fast relief from pain in the lower back, knee, and neck. HSA/FSA approved.
This product is ideal for relieving pain in knee joints, back, legs, feet, hands and arthritis with natural essential oils.

1. Val Magnesium Roll-On Pain Relief With Arnica & Herbal Blend

The VAL Lombardi Pain Relief Magnesium Roll-on offers maximum natural pain relief for muscle and joint aches and pains. This powerful formula contains a blend of pure Zechstein Magnesium, Arnica, Camphor, Menthol, and herbal extracts that help to speed up recovery and reduce stiffness, providing effective pain relief.

One of the key features of this Roll-on is its high Magnesium concentration. Every 5ml of product contains approximately 188mg of concentrated Magnesium. This topical application delivers Magnesium directly to the cells, providing instant relief and improving mobility. The Magnesium begins working within 90 seconds of application, targeting pain directly at the site and delivering lasting relief.

The Roll-on stick applicator ensures a fast-acting, mess-free application, keeping hands clean and the liquid dries quickly leaving no greasy residue. Additionally, the product has a vanishing scent, making it ideal for use anytime and anywhere.

The VAL Lombardi Pain Relief Magnesium Roll-on is a product of a renowned chemist in the USA, ensuring its quality and effectiveness. It can be used at home to relax after a long day's work, at the gym after a workout or sports activity, and anywhere else where pain relief is needed.

VAL is a US-based international company that has been committed to promoting healthy and happy lives since 1996. The development of VAL Oral and Transdermal Magnesium Supplements in 2017 has made them experts in Magnesium-based products. With their focus on health, VAL offers a purpose-driven product that provides maximum pain relief for those seeking a natural solution.

2. Maxocaine Pain Relief Roll-On With Menthol

Introducing Maxocaine, a breakthrough formulation in pain relief cream. Developed through extensive research and years of experience, this maximum strength Lidocaine numbing cream provides powerful soothing pain relief without any harmful side effects.

Maxocaine's unique deep penetrating formula and easy-to-use roll-on applicator make it a convenient solution for pain relief anytime, anywhere. Unlike other numbing creams, Maxocaine does not leave a numbing sensation on your hands after application.

Experience quick, strong, and long-lasting pain relief with Maxocaine. Its targeted action directly targets pain receptors and desensitizes aggravated nerves, providing fast and effective pain relief. It is an ideal solution for Arthritis, Back Aches, Bruises, Cramps, Joint Pains, Muscle Strains, and Muscle Sprains, making it suitable for the entire family.

Maxocaine offers a safe alternative to prescription and non-prescription oral pain medication. It has a light, pleasant scent that vanishes instantly, making it a perfect choice for people who cannot tolerate embarrassing odors. Moreover, its non-greasy formula applies easily, absorbs quickly, and does not stain clothes or upholstery.

3. Hot Relief Cream For Sore Muscles.

The Max Strength Hot Cream is a natural muscle relaxer that comes in an 8.8 oz container. This cream is made with essential oils and natural ingredients, like capsaicin, that provide a warm, tingly treatment to help soothe tired and sore muscles.

This Maximum Strength Hot Cream is designed to help soothe aching muscles and joints with a stimulating sensation powered by ingredients that help relax muscles and boost circulation. It contains more than a dozen nourishing essential oils, such as spearmint, eucalyptus, and sweet basil, that help reduce inflammation, pain, and tension. Additionally, it has a robust blend of healthy minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and calcium, that further enhance its muscle-relaxing properties.

One of the key features of this max strength capsaicin cream is that it is cruelty-free, containing no parabens, phthalates, sulfates, added fragrance, or harsh chemicals. This product is made in the USA, ensuring that it meets high-quality standards.

If you are looking for a natural and effective way to soothe your tired and sore muscles, the Max Strength Hot Cream might be your ideal solution. Its powerful blend of essential oils and minerals can help you reduce inflammation, pain, and tension, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

4. Pain Relief Roll-On: Maximum Strength

Introducing Workvie Maximum Strength Lidocaine Cream, the ultimate pain relief solution to soothe your aching muscles and joints. This cream is formulated with 10 powerful ingredients, including Arnica, Menthol, Eucalyptus, MSM, and Lidocaine, which work together to provide instant relief from pain caused by pulled muscles, sprains, pinched nerves, arthritis, nerve pain, muscle pain, and sciatica.

Workvie Lidocaine Cream is perfect for those who experience discomfort during waxing or tattoo numbing. Simply apply the cream 25 minutes prior to the procedure and enjoy a pain-free experience. This cream is also free from paraben, dyes, and NSAIDS, making it a safe option for all skin types.

Unlike other pain relief options, Workvie Lidocaine Cream has a vanishing scent and is non-staining, ensuring that it won't leave any residue on your clothes or skin. The cream is also easy to apply with its roll-on design, providing targeted relief exactly where you need it. You can use it on your back, shoulders, knees, or any other areas of pain and discomfort.

Another advantage of Workvie Lidocaine Cream is that it is safe for sensitive skin. The cream is balanced with Aloe Vera, which provides a non-burning sensation for those with delicate skin. It is also vegan and has not been tested on animals, making it an ethical choice for conscious consumers.

At Workvie, they are confident in their product and offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the results, you can return the product for a full refund with no questions asked.

5. Biofreeze Gel: Soothing Pain Relief For All.

Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel is a top-rated pain relief brand that comes highly recommended by clinicians. In fact, it was rated as the #1 clinically recommended menthol topical pain relief brand in a recent IPSOS clinician survey conducted in July 2022. This gel is designed to apply easily and penetrate deeply for fast and long-lasting pain relief.

The cooling menthol formula is fast-acting and effective in delivering penetrating pain relief for a range of ailments such as sore muscles, simple backaches, joint pain, bruises, and arthritis. This one-gallon gel bottle comes with a pump, which makes it easy to apply on both small and large muscle areas.

Biofreeze is a trusted brand in the healthcare industry, and it is clinically recommended by professionals such as pharmacists, physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, podiatrists, and athletic trainers. Additionally, the product is FSA/HSA eligible, which means you can save up to 30%.

Not only is Biofreeze effective, but it is also ethical. The product is not tested on animals, made with USP grade menthol, and free of NSAIDs. This ensures that you can use the product with confidence, knowing that it is safe and cruelty-free.

6. Biofreeze Trio: Pain Relief Pack For Muscles

Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel, spray, and roll-on are a game-changer for anyone looking for fast-acting pain relief for minor aches and pains of muscles and joints. This clinically recommended brand is trusted by pharmacists, physical therapists, chiropractors, massage therapists, podiatrists, and athletic trainers to deliver the relief that people need.

The fast-acting, cooling menthol formula is designed to penetrate deep into the affected area, providing long-lasting relief from discomfort. Whether you're experiencing simple backache, arthritis, strains, bruises, or sprains, Biofreeze can help you get back to your daily routine.

One of the best things about Biofreeze is that it's not tested on animals, and it's made with USP grade menthol. This means you can feel good about using a product that's safe and effective, without any harmful side effects. Additionally, Biofreeze is free of NSAIDs, making it perfect for people who are sensitive to these types of pain relievers.

Another benefit of Biofreeze is that it's FSA/HSA eligible, allowing you to save up to 30% on your purchase. This is a great option for those who need pain relief regularly and want to save money in the process.

7. Nyloxin Ultimate Pain Relief Cream (8 Oz)

Nyloxin is a unique pain relief product that offers more than just a temporary solution. This topical gel uses specialized proteins derived from Asian cobra venom to provide real-time pain relief by blocking neurotransmitters responsible for signaling pain. The neuroactive peptides found in the venom provide inflammation relief, making it a great option for those who suffer from back pain, leg pain, sore muscles, hand pain, shingles pain, and swollen feet.

One of the key benefits of Nyloxin is its anti-inflammatory properties. This easy-to-use gel is designed to keep pain away, whether you need hip pain relief, back, neck, knee, shoulder, foot, or leg cramp cream. By using it regularly over time, you can experience long-term benefits. For the first week, it is recommended to apply the gel onto the affected area 3 to 4 times daily. As pain becomes more tolerable, you can reduce use to an as-needed basis.

Nyloxin is designed for optimal absorbency, making it easy to use without leaving any residue on your skin. The gel applies smoothly without sticking and is scent-free, so you don’t have to worry about any irritating fragrances.

8. Acuplus Roll-On: Pain Relief In A Bottle

AcuPlus offers a fast-acting pain relief cream that is designed to provide effective relief from muscle and joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Their advanced formula penetrates deeply and quickly to deliver targeted therapy to problem areas.

The cream is made with natural ingredients, including a powerful blend of arnica, MSM, menthol, Glucosamine, Magnesium, Boswellia Serrata and more. It is free of parabens, dyes, and artificial fragrances, making it a safe and healthy option for pain relief.

AcuPlus cream is ideal for targeting specific problem areas, making it perfect for post-workout recovery, arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, and more. It is easy to apply and absorbs quickly, leaving no residue or stains, making it perfect for use at home, at work, or on-the-go.

The non-greasy formula is designed for maximum convenience and effectiveness, providing fast-acting relief without any mess or fuss. AcuPlus cream is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a safe and effective way to manage their pain. With its natural ingredients and targeted therapy, it is a great option for anyone looking for a healthy and effective pain relief solution.

9. Max Strength Stopain Relief Roll-On Trio

The Stopain Maximum Strength Roll-On is designed to provide fast-acting relief for joint, muscle, and arthritis pain. Unlike other pain-relieving products, this roll-on does not dull or reduce pain, but rather stops it in its tracks.

This soothing menthol topical analgesic is free from dyes, fragrances, and preservatives, making it non-irritating and non-allergenic. It works on contact, providing immediate penetrating relief for your pain. Additionally, it is non-staining and non-greasy, making it easy to use without worrying about leaving any residue.

Stopain has been producing high-quality pain relief products in the USA for over 30 years, and the Maximum Strength Roll-On is no exception. Millions of satisfied customers have found relief from their aching muscles and joints without the intolerable heat or icy cold that other products often produce.

This product is recommended by pharmacists and healthcare professionals, and is easy to use. It is also NSAID-free and contains MSM and Glucosamine to support joint flexibility and mobility.

When you need extra strength pain relief for sprains, strains, backaches, shoulder, knees, hands, wrist, or feet, the Stopain Maximum Strength Roll-On is the perfect solution. You won't need to worry about using patches, liniments, creams, hot balms, ointments, or ice. With Stopain, you can experience real-time pain relief that lasts.

10. Corganics Natural Pain Relief Cream – 16 Oz.

Corganics Relief is a topical pain management cream that provides temporary relief for minor aches and pains in muscles and joints. It is specially formulated to alleviate discomfort associated with simple backache, arthritis, strains, bruises, and sprains. This versatile cream is ideal for those experiencing back pain, foot pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, knee pain, foot pain, and arthritic pain.

Relief offers a more natural approach to pain management and is made with essential oils, including Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Sweet Orange, and Menthol. Additionally, it contains other natural ingredients such as L-Arginine, MSM, Vitamin E, and Aloe Vera. Its refreshing scent and lotion-like feel make it a pleasure to use, and it is non-irritating to the skin, non-staining, non-sticky, non-greasy, and contains no ingredients with avoidance warnings for potential adverse side effects.

Relief is widely used by athletes, chiropractors, pharmacists, physical therapists, and massage therapists. It absorbs quickly, works better, and lasts longer than other pain relief creams. This is because it contains no fillers or synthetic ingredients, only natural and effective components.

Relief's ingredients include Menthol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Benzyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Carbomer, Ceteareth-20, Cetyl Alcohol, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Sweet Orange) Oil, Cymbopogon Martini (Palmarosa) Oil, Deionized Water, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Glycerine, L-Arginine Monohydrochloride, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Lecithin, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Hydroxide, Tocopheryl Acetate.

Relief is made in the USA in a cGMP facility. It is a vegan product that contains no animal or animal-derived ingredients, and has never been tested on animals. Those who prefer a natural approach to pain management will appreciate the effective relief provided by Corganics Relief. It is a safe and effective alternative to harsh chemicals and synthetic ingredients commonly found in other pain relief products.

Best Topical For Muscle Pain FAQs

Are there any natural topicals that work well for muscle pain?

Yes, there are several natural topicals that have been found to be effective in relieving muscle pain.

One of the most popular natural topicals is arnica, which is derived from a flower. Arnica has anti-inflammatory properties and can be found in creams, gels, and oils. It is known to reduce pain and swelling, making it a great option for muscle pain relief.

Another natural topical option is menthol, which is derived from peppermint oil. Menthol has a cooling effect that can provide relief for muscle pain and tension. It can be found in creams, gels, and sprays.

CBD topicals are also gaining popularity as a natural option for muscle pain relief. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants and has been found to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. CBD topicals come in creams, lotions, and balms.

Lastly, essential oils such as lavender, eucalyptus, and chamomile can be used topically to help relax muscles and reduce pain. These oils can be mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil and massaged onto the affected area.

It is always important to speak with a healthcare provider before trying any new treatments, including natural topicals.

Are there any topical products that are specifically designed for athletes or active individuals experiencing muscle pain?

Yes, there are several topical products that are specifically designed for athletes or active individuals experiencing muscle pain. These products usually contain ingredients such as menthol, camphor, or capsaicin that help to provide a cooling or warming sensation to the affected area and promote blood flow to the muscles. Some popular topical products for muscle pain relief include Biofreeze, Tiger Balm, Icy Hot, and Voltaren Gel. It is important to note that while these products can provide temporary pain relief, they should not be used as a substitute for proper rest, hydration, and injury prevention strategies. If you are experiencing persistent or severe muscle pain, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Can topicals for muscle pain be used in conjunction with other pain relief methods?

Yes, topicals for muscle pain can be used in conjunction with other pain relief methods. In fact, using multiple methods of pain relief can often provide more effective relief than relying on just one. Topical treatments such as creams, gels, and patches can be applied directly to the affected area and work by penetrating the skin and targeting the underlying muscles and joints. Other pain relief methods such as oral pain medication, physical therapy, and hot/cold therapy can also be used alongside topicals for muscle pain. However, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using multiple methods of pain relief to ensure that they are safe and effective for your specific condition and needs. They can help you develop a personalized pain management plan that takes into account any potential interactions or side effects.

How do I choose the right topical for my specific type of muscle pain?

Choosing the right topical for your specific type of muscle pain can be a daunting task, but it's essential to get the maximum relief. Firstly, identify the type of muscle pain you are experiencing, whether it's a sprain, strain, or soreness. Then, consider the active ingredients in the topical you are considering. For example, if you have sore muscles, look for a topical containing menthol or camphor, which have a cooling effect that can reduce inflammation and soothe sore muscles. If you have arthritis, consider a topical containing capsaicin, which can help relieve joint pain. It's also important to consider the application method, such as a cream, gel, or patch, and determine which one would be most convenient and effective for your needs. Lastly, always read the label and instructions carefully and follow them accordingly to ensure safe and effective use. If you are unsure which topical to choose, consult with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist for guidance.

How do topicals for muscle pain work?

Topicals for muscle pain, such as creams, gels, and ointments, work by delivering active compounds directly to the affected area through the skin. These products are designed to provide localized relief, and are often used for sore muscles, arthritis, and other types of pain.

The active ingredients in topicals for muscle pain can vary, but some common ones include menthol, camphor, capsaicin, and lidocaine. Menthol and camphor are known for their cooling and warming effects, respectively, which can help to soothe sore muscles. Capsaicin works by reducing the amount of a neurotransmitter called substance P, which is involved in transmitting pain signals to the brain. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that can provide temporary relief from pain.

When applied to the skin, topicals for muscle pain can penetrate the outermost layer and reach the underlying muscle tissue. Some products may also contain ingredients that help to increase blood flow to the affected area, which can promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Overall, topicals for muscle pain can be an effective way to manage discomfort without the side effects associated with oral medications. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully and speak with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

How long does it take for topicals for muscle pain to start working?

The time it takes for topicals for muscle pain to start working can vary depending on several factors such as the severity of the pain, the type of topical used, and the individual's metabolism. Generally, topical pain relievers can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour to start working. Some topicals like balms and creams can provide immediate relief upon application, while others like patches and gels may take longer to work but provide longer-lasting relief.

It's important to follow the instructions provided with the topical product to ensure it's used correctly. Also, keep in mind that topicals are not a cure for underlying conditions causing muscle pain, but they can provide temporary relief. If the pain persists or worsens, it's best to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

Is it safe to use topicals for muscle pain on a regular basis?

Topical pain relievers are generally considered safe when used as directed on the label or as instructed by a healthcare professional. Topicals can be a good option for those who prefer not to take oral pain medications or who have difficulty swallowing pills. However, it is important to note that using topicals for muscle pain on a regular basis can have potential side effects.

Some common side effects of topical pain relievers include skin irritation, redness, or rash. In rare cases, these products can cause more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions or skin damage. Additionally, if you are using a topical pain reliever that contains an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like diclofenac or ibuprofen, there is a risk of systemic absorption, which can lead to stomach ulcers, kidney damage, or other serious side effects.

Therefore, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before using any topical pain relievers for muscle pain on a regular basis. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if a topical is the right choice for you and can provide guidance on how to use it safely.

What are the active ingredients in the best topicals for muscle pain?

The active ingredients in the best topicals for muscle pain may vary depending on the type of topical product and the severity of the pain. However, some of the most common active ingredients in muscle pain topicals include menthol, camphor, methyl salicylate, capsaicin, and lidocaine.

Menthol and camphor are natural pain relievers that provide a cooling sensation and help to reduce inflammation in the muscles. Methyl salicylate is a type of salicylic acid that is used to treat minor aches and pains in the muscles and joints. Capsaicin is a compound found in chili peppers that helps to reduce pain and inflammation by blocking certain nerve receptors.

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that can be used to numb the area where the pain is located. It works by blocking the signals from the nerves that transmit pain to the brain. Other ingredients that may be included in muscle pain topicals include essential oils, herbal extracts, and vitamins.

It is important to note that the effectiveness of these active ingredients may vary from person to person, and it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using any new pain relief product.

What are the potential side effects of using topicals for muscle pain?

Topical treatments for muscle pain can be an effective way to manage pain without the side effects that come with oral medications. However, like any medication, topicals can have side effects. Some of the potential side effects of using topicals for muscle pain include skin irritation, redness, and itching. In some cases, the medication may cause an allergic reaction, which can lead to swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives. It's essential to follow the usage instructions carefully and avoid applying the medication to broken or irritated skin. If you experience any severe side effects, such as a rash or difficulty breathing, stop using the medication immediately and seek medical attention. While topicals can be an effective way to manage muscle pain, it's essential to be aware of the potential side effects and use them as directed. If you have concerns about using topicals for muscle pain, you should consult your doctor or a healthcare professional.

What is the best topical for muscle pain?

There are several topicals available in the market that can help alleviate muscle pain. However, the best topical for muscle pain may vary from person to person, depending on their individual needs. Some of the most commonly used topicals for muscle pain relief include menthol-based ointments, balms containing capsaicin, creams and gels containing nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, and lavender.

Menthol-based topicals work by providing a cooling sensation that can help to numb the pain and reduce inflammation. Capsaicin-based topicals work by blocking the pain signals sent by the nerves to the brain. NSAID topicals work by reducing inflammation and pain.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any topical for muscle pain relief, especially if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking any medications. They can help you choose the best topical for your specific needs and ensure that it is safe for you to use.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts