Best arthritis pain relief cream of 2024, according to experts

Suffering from arthritis pain? You’re not alone. Arthritis affects one in five adults in the United States. Not only does this disease cause pain and discomfort, it’s also extremely debilitating and can affect your overall quality of life. 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.” One way to address arthritis pain is topically with over-the-counter pain creams. Of course, they aren’t all created equal.

To find the best arthritis creams, 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.

Dealing with other types of pain? We have suggestions for the best braces to address carpal tunnel pain. We also have suggestions for the best muscle relief creams, in case you’re dealing with exercise paints unrelated to arthritis.

Best arthritis pain relief cream overall

Other top pain relief creams we recommend for 2024

Factors 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.

FAQs

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 experts

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