How safe are arthritis rubs?
Most arthritis rubs are generally over-the-counter drugs that can be purchased even without a doctor’s prescription. However, a sin the case of any drug, it is important to use such arthritis rubs with care.
Excessive use may cause irritation of the skin and the development of rashes. This may also happen if you are allergic to salicylate which is a common ingredient in several arthritis rubs. Further, if you are already on blood thinning medication you may be advised to avoid salicylate topical creams or gels. In such cases, please do consult your doctor.
Unless specifically instructed by your physician, limit your use of arthritis rubs to a maximum of four times through the day.
The ingredients present in arthritis rubs can cause burning if they touch your eyes, nose, or other sensitive parts. So do take care to wash your hands well before and after you use the arthritis rub.
Since these arthritis rubs do offer some temporary relief, they are much sought after and several brands are easily available for purchase. However, since there are so many kinds of arthritis rubs with differing core ingredients, it is preferable to seek your physician’s advice in prescribing the arthritis rub that is best suited for your needs.
How do capsaicin-containing arthritis creams work?
Capsaicin is a powerful ingredient that is found in cayenne peppers. Capsaicin temporarily blocks a chemical called, “P,” that transmits pain signals to the brain.
I have heard that most arthritis rubs contain NSAIDs. I have also heard that long-term consumption of pain medication is harmful to the kidneys. Can I use an NSAID-based arthritic rub for my knee pain?
While there is some research evidence indicating that long-term oral consumption of anti-inflammatory drugs may have negative side-effects, in comparison, topical arthritis rubs with active NSAID ingredients are relatively safer as the quantities of the NSAID absorbed through the skin is much lesser. However, in any case, it is important to use these arthritis rubs only as advised for excessive use may cause an overdose of the key active pain relieving ingredient.