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Topical pain relief: What to use and how

Balms, creams, oil, gels, lotions, and ointments are some medications, are usually used for topical pain relief. Doctors recommends topical medications to be safer in cases of mild pain. But before using any topical medication proper precautions need to be taken. Some ingredients in them can cause allergy. One needs to read labels on the pack of ointment or cream before using. If there is severe pain oral medication is preferred. Let us see some topical pain relievers.

1. Salicylates

Creams which contain Salicylates when applied to effected area reduce joint inflammation. The skin feels cooling sensation and distract mind from pain. Patients who are allergic to aspirins or take blood thinners medication in daily routine should avoid creams with Salicylates as they can react. Consult doctor before using it.

2. Capsaicin

It is said to be one of the most effective ingredient which provides relief in pain. It is found in chili peppers. When applied, it gives burning sensation. This will reduce after some time. If you feel severe burning sensation for long time, discontinue its use. Use it for a week to see better results.

3. Counter irritants

They contain menthol, eucalyptus, or oil of wintergreen. When applied it may give hot or cold sensation which distract your mind from pain. They offer temporary relief from pain.

4. Menthol

It is derived from peppermint. When applied to skin it gives cooling sensation and soothes the joint and gives relief in pain. It is beneficial in muscle ache or arthritis.

5. Inflathera or Zyflamend

They contain ginger, turmeric, and holy basil traces. They are said to have anti inflammatory properties. These are natural ingredients so they are safe for skin and also relieves from arthritis pain.

6. Fish oil

Fish oil is also said to be effective in joint pain. People who take cod liver oil in daily routine are fewer suspects to joint pains. Take cod liver oil capsules daily in case of pain or massage effected part with oil 2 times a day. Ask your doctor before using this.

7. Sesame seeds

Soak some sesame seeds in water for overnight. In the morning take those seeds with water before doing breakfast. Use same water in which seeds are soaked. It is found to be very effective in joint pain.

8. Garlic

It can be taken raw or cooked for relief in pain. Take a small amount of ginger juice and apply it to the affected area. Ginger has anti inflammatory property. It gives slightly burning sensation. It is very effective in arthritis and other joint pains.

9. Castor oil

Take 2 tablespoon of castor oil and heat it over the stove. Mix this in a glass of orange juice. Thus should be taken for a week. Heat some castor oil and massage the affected area with this oil. This will give relief in pain. Coconut oil or mustard oil can also be used in place of castor oil for massage.

10. Camphor

Take 10 grams of camphor and mix it with 200 gms of mustard oil. Keep it in sunlight for one day to dissolve the camphor completely. Massage the affected area with this mixture for 1-2 weeks. Camphor gives cooling sensation and also gives relief in pain. It is the most common and best home remedy from pain relief.

11. Hot and cold treatment

Apply cold packs over the affected area. You can apply cold water or packs of ice. Cold packs numb the sore areas and gives relief in pain. For hot packs, soak your legs or hands in hot water, take shower in hot water, soak towel in hot water, and then apply to effected area. Do not warm the water to high temperature, it may burn the skin. Water should be slightly lukewarm. Do not apply any cream, gel or lotion just after hot and cold treatment.

12. Exercise

Light yoga exercise also benefits a lot. As this will make joints move, which may increase the blood circulation in joints and reduce the pain. Before doing any exercise consult your doctor.

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