There are different types of topical medications for pain relief that come in multiple forms: creams, gels, and patches. When it comes to creams, Dena Barsoum, MD, a physiatrist at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), recommends looking for active ingredients like menthol, “which can stimulate a warm sensation (like using a warm compress) or a cold sensation (like using an ice pack).” We researched dozens of arthritis creams and evaluated them for ingredients, price, scent, and application type.
Here are the best arthritis creams on the market.
Each spray bottle features technology that produces a continuous flow even when it’s flipped upside down. What’s more, the formula is free of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, salicylates, and addictive substances.
Price at time of publish: $31
The time-tested formula has more than 150 years of history to its credit, which boasts a pleasant texture and efficient pain relief on hands, feet, and other achy areas. Arnica creates an instant cooling sensation, while hemp oil targets inflammation and cannabinoid receptors. It’s clear and has almost no odor.
Price at time of publish: $18
Dispensed from an easy-to-use arthritis-friendly pump, this anti-inflammatory topical lotion isn’t greasy and doesn’t contain skin-drying alcohol. While it’s typically used for deep pain relief, like sore muscles, it can also be used for superficial pain, like shingles. However, it shouldn’t be used on broken skin or open wounds or on irritated, inflamed, reddened, or dry skin.
Price at time of publish: $14
These patches are available in standard and large sizes, depending on what area you need to treat. Crafty customers also recommend trimming the patches into strips to pinpoint pain and avoid waste. The adhesive is as strong as the pain relief and cooling sensation, so patches stay put for hours. Dr. Barsoum says that “patches may be more convenient and less messy than creams or gels.”
Price at time of publish: $11
A little goes a long way with this potent arnica-packed gel that’s gentle on skin and dries with a smooth, non-greasy finish.
Price at time of publish: $34
This formula contains a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), diclofenac gel, which is able to work below the surface of the skin and hit right where it hurts. As an NSAID, diclofenac works by inhibiting the COX enzyme, and it may target additional enzymes, according to some research. That means this ingredient works to alleviate pain from the inside out, and it does so quite effectively.
Voltaren’s Topical Arthritis Pain Relief Gel is non-greasy so it won’t make your feet or any area slippery or sticky. It was previously available by prescription only, but now is over-the-counter. Keep in mind that if you have a health condition (such as chronic kidney disease, cardiovascular disease) or on blood thinners and you have been told not to take oral NSAIDs, topical NSAIDs may not be advised. Ask your physician before using this gel.
Price at time of publish: $21
Zostrix shouldn’t be used on broken skin or open wounds or on irritated, inflamed, reddened, or dry skin.
Price at time of publish: $19
Price at time of publish: $19
“Most agents have cooling agents like menthol or capsaicin,” says Dr. Rodriguez-Paez. This agent depletes the nerve cells in the area of a chemical that’s important for sending pain signals to the brain. “They cause the skin to feel cool and then warm and they distract the nerve endings from the pain sensation thus relieving pain,” Dr. Rodriguez-Paez adds. “Usually the effect is short-lived; it goes away if not used frequently.”
Side Effects
Oral medications to relieve arthritis symptoms can sometimes cause gastrointestinal problems, stomach ulcers, and kidney dysfunction. Topical medications, on the other hand, minimize some of those side effects seen in their oral counterparts. “I believe the side effect profile in general is safe, and patients may have a benefit, which would lead them to avoid using other oral agents that have potential for more side effects,” Dr. Rodriguez-Paez says.
But that doesn’t mean these topical agents are for everyone. Because the product is applied directly to the skin, it could cause irritation for people with skin conditions or similar sensitivities. “Patients with different skin conditions, history of eczema, or sensitive skin may want to use a small amount first to see if it causes problems,” says Dr. Rodriguez-Paez. If you experience a severe skin reaction to the product, it is best to stop use and speak to your doctor about the ingredients that potentially caused the reaction.
Application
While rollers and patches may seem convenient, doctors say you may be missing out on one major benefit of using an arthritis cream: the massage. “The act of actually putting on some of these rubs may be, at least in part, why they’re helpful,” says Dr. Rosian. “Massaging the cream or gel in and moving around the joints helps with blood flow and modulating the pain around the area.”
Why Trust Verywell Health
As a seasoned health writer, Jennifer Nied understands how vital quality product recommendations are for treating symptoms safely and effectively at home. For over 10 years, she has reviewed products, interviewed experts, scrutinized ingredients, and pored over research studies and claims, to help readers like you understand what works for your specific conditions. Every product in this piece was selected taking into account recommendations from doctors, published research, and real customer reviews.
“[Some] arthritis creams are formulated with salicylates, which can reduce inflammation to the joints when applied topically and lessen pain,” Niket Sonpal, MD, an internist practicing in New York City, tells Verywell Health. “Some creams use ingredients known as ‘counterirritants,’ which actually cause mild irritation or inflammation of the skin to distract the patient from their arthritis’ pain. Menthol, or mint oil, is a common counterirritant often used in arthritis creams.”
“Many of the products are best used when applied multiple times per day, and so to get the most benefit, patients must be willing to follow the instructions and use appropriately,” says Dr. Frank. “As always, talk to your doctor first before starting.”
According to Dr. Sonpal, topical arthritis creams are usually safe for use while pregnant or breastfeeding. “This is because when treatment, like a cream, is applied topically, the skin absorbs very little of the medication,” he explains. “It is unlikely that a harmful amount of medication from the cream will move through your bloodstream into your uterus or your breastmilk, if you are breastfeeding. If you are unsure of whether or not it is safe to use your specific arthritis cream while pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor for a medical opinion.”
Additional reporting to this story by Danielle Zoellner and Elizabeth Yuko
As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. Her experience and knowledge in the field work together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life.
As a seasoned health writer and editor—and someone with rheumatoid arthritis—Elizabeth Yuko understands how much of a difference finding the right product makes for those with arthritis. She’s always on the lookout for new (and research-backed) products, techniques, and services that can help people cope with their health challenges.
