Banish muscle pain with these picks, vetted and recommended by the pros. (Getty Images)
Wincing as you reach for a high shelf, grimacing as you bend to tie your shoes or feeling betrayed by your body after an ambitious workout? Whether from overexertion, injury or chronic conditions, muscle pain can instantly hijack your day. That's why the best muscle pain relief creams have become essential sidekicks for everyone including professional athletes and people with arthritis. These fast-acting formulas penetrate directly where needed, offering immediate comfort when oral medications would still be dissolving in your stomach.
Topical analgesics deliver relief through two distinct mechanisms, says Dr. Michael Gerling, an American board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon and founder of the Gerling Institute. "Topical creams are most effective when absorbed into the painful tissues," he says, highlighting their primary function as anti-inflammatory compounds to reduce swelling directly at its source.
Simultaneously, these formulations "work by stimulating the skin, creating a distraction from the underlying condition." This sensory component operates through a neurological phenomenon called "sensory gating," where alternative sensations disrupt pain signals. The cooling, warming or tingling effects travel along the same nerve pathways that carry pain messages to your brain, creating a flood of competing sensory information. Your brain, with limited processing capacity, prioritizes these new inputs instead of focusing on the discomfort. "By creating a distraction in the nervous system, the pain is less noticeable," Gerling says, which is why relief often begins immediately upon application, even before medicinal ingredients have time to address inflammation.
The effectiveness of these creams can vary greatly depending on the chemical strength, location and type of pain, according to Gerling. Therefore, to identify the best muscle pain relief creams, Yahoo consulted with a panel of pain management experts to learn the key ingredients to look for, if cooling or warming creams were better and if there were any ingredients, products or brands to avoid. We took the experts' feedback and evaluated the most popular topical pain relievers on the market. We then rated each product based on cost, active ingredients, effects, customer satisfaction, brand reputation and ease of use.
After rigorous analysis, we identified 10 of the best pain-relieving creams you can buy, including the best creams for arthritis pain. But before diving in, know that while these topical solutions provide effective temporary relief, they address symptoms rather than the underlying causes of persistent pain. If you experience sudden, severe or lingering discomfort that doesn't improve within a few days, consult a health care professional for appropriate treatment and care. Read on to learn about the best muscle pain relief creams of 2025, according to pain management experts.
Update, May 14, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best muscle pain relief cream remains unchanged. Our choice for "best scented pain relief cream" has been updated.
Key ingredients: 5% menthol | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling | Scent: Menthol that quickly fades to a neutral scent
Biofreeze Professional Pain Relief Gel is our best overall muscle pain relief cream due to its fast-acting and long-lasting formula. Its cooling menthol and camphor provide immediate relief by interfering with the body’s pain signals, making it an ideal choice for quickly alleviating muscle soreness and discomfort.
One bonus feature of Biofreeze is the inclusion of aloe and vitamin E, which help soften the skin. Customers appreciate the gel's effectiveness, ease of use and warming sensation. As one reviewer noted, "[It's] easy to apply and works fast. It definitely works great for lower back pain." Another reviewer recommended it for sore joints and muscles, praising its minimal, pleasant smell and long-lasting effects.
Key ingredients: 11% camphor, menthol | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling | Scent: Strong, characteristic scent of camphor and menthol
Tiger Balm Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Ointment is our best value muscle pain relief cream, because a small amount goes a long way. Plus, at about $10 per jar, it's a powerful, long-lasting rub that won't break the bank.
The balm combines cooling menthol and warming camphor to create a powerful counterirritant effect, interrupting pain signals. At an 11% concentration, the compounds produce a soothing surface irritation strong enough to disrupt pain signals from arthritis, says Matthew Cavanaugh, chiropractor at Cavanaugh Chiropractic Clinic. He says that this effect "allows you to complete your everyday activities with less pain."
Customers appreciate the pain relief, performance and value. They mention that it eases sore muscles and works exceptionally well. One customer review praised the fast relief: "Within 20 minutes, I forgot the pain was there in the first place." Another customer was pleased with the size for the price, saying, "A little goes a long way. I bought two because I couldn't believe the price."
Key ingredients: Methyl salicylate, menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil | Cooling, warming, neutral: Warming | Scent: Mild, not overpowering menthol scent
Rub A535 Muscle and Joint Heat Cream tops our list as the best powerful muscle pain relief cream because of its fast-acting and deep-penetrating formula. Its active ingredients, methyl salicylate, camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol, provide immediate relief on contact to alleviate muscle soreness and discomfort quickly.
What stands out about Rub A535 is its formula that contains 100% more pain-relieving ingredients than regular strength creams, making it a powerful option for those with severe muscle and joint pain.
Despite its strength, the cream has a mild scent and isn't overpowering, making it a great choice for daily use. However, it's worth noting that it may feel slightly sticky after application, and some people may feel the warming sensation is too intense.
Key ingredients: 16% menthol, 11% camphor | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling | Scent: Mint
If you prefer a maximum-strength pain relief cream but don't love the residue often left behind, consider Icy Hot's Pro Cream. With 16% menthol and 11% camphor, this formula boasts one of the highest concentrations of active ingredients available without a prescription.
The no-mess massaging applicator is equipped with 54 individual nodes to deliver a cooling sensation exactly where you need it, without getting any product on your hands. Even better, the cream absorbs quickly and is nongreasy.
One negative is the scent; due to the high menthol concentration, your nose and eyes may experience some irritation when applying to larger areas. To avoid this, apply in a well-ventilated area away from young children and pets.
Key ingredients: 1,000 mg organic broad-spectrum hemp extract | Cooling, warming, neutral: Neutral | Scent: Fresh, mild scent of lemongrass and sage
Humble Brands CBD Comfort Bar is our top pick for pain relief cream with added CBD due to its fast-acting, soothing and moisturizing properties. The bar contains 1,000 mg of Organic Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract, known for its potential anti-inflammatory benefits and ability to relieve muscle pain and tension.
Research suggests CBD works through the body's endocannabinoid system to modulate the immune response and inflammation. A 2021 study found that CBD may reduce the unpleasantness of pain, while another trial demonstrated significant pain intensity reduction with topical CBD oil applications. For personalized guidance on whether CBD-infused products might benefit your specific condition, consult a healthcare provider.
An admirable characteristic of the Humble Brands CBD Comfort Bar is its vegan and cruelty-free Leaping Bunny certification, which ensures the product is effective and ethically produced. The bar also comes in earth-friendly paperboard packaging that breaks down in two to five months.
Customers have praised Comfort Bar for effectively reducing chronic joint pain. One review stated, "This bar has helped my chronic joint pain (wrist/thumb). A couple of quick swipes, and within a few minutes, the pain is reduced." Another customer appreciated the design of the bar, saying, "My Comfort Bar is great because it pops up for me to use and glides on, I don't have to get it all over my hands. It has the best smell of any of my CBD products too!"
Key ingredients: Arnica, camphor, menthol, peppermint oils | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling | Scent: Strong but pleasant, natural minty scent
Dr. Bronner's Arnica-Menthol Organic Magic Balm is our top recommendation for botanical muscle relief thanks to its potent yet natural formulation. Unlike synthetic alternatives, this balm harnesses plant compounds that simultaneously relieve discomfort while nourishing dry or irritated skin with the power of certified organic botanicals.
The starring ingredient, arnica, brings scientifically backed relief to the formula. Clinical research found that arnica gel application matched ibuprofen's effectiveness in reducing osteoarthritis pain and improving mobility.
Dr. Bronner's is committed to using organic and fair-trade ingredients and works with fair-trade suppliers to implement earth-friendly and organic farming practices that help combat climate change. A clear commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing makes Dr. Bronner's a feel-good choice.
Customers have praised the balm for its effectiveness in relieving pain, its pleasant smell and the quality of its ingredients. One happy customer stated, "This stuff is fantastic. I carry one in my purse, one in my kids' soccer medical kit, my husband has one in his golf bag and we have one at home. It works like nothing I have ever used. Not greasy and smells yummy!"
Key ingredients: 4% lidocaine, aloe vera | Cooling, warming, neutral: Neutral | Scent: Unscented
Aspercreme Pain Relief Cream With Lidocaine is our top recommendation in this category, as it delivers rapid relief through its clinically proven anesthetic formula. Its active ingredient, lidocaine, temporarily blocks pain signals at the source, making it particularly effective for acute muscle soreness and localized discomfort.
"Aspercreme is odor-free, which is a pro for those sensitive to smells [who] cannot have fragrance on their skin," notes John Gallucci, physical therapist, athletic trainer and chief executive officer of JAG Physical Therapy. This fragrance-neutral quality makes it suitable for sensitive individuals and professional settings where strong medicinal scents might be inappropriate.
Recent research supports lidocaine's effectiveness across multiple pain types. A 2024 study demonstrated significant improvement in neck pain patients, particularly those with muscular involvement, owing to the cream's ability to penetrate tissue layers effectively. Additional clinical evidence shows lidocaine provides meaningful relief for neuropathic conditions, including diabetic neuropathy, complex regional pain syndrome, cancer-related pain and post-surgical discomfort following breast procedures.
Key ingredients: Emu oil, aloe vera, methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), glucosamine | Cooling, warming, neutral: Neutral | Scent: Odor-free
Blue Emu Deep Soothing Original Cream is our pick for the best premium pain relief cream because of its potent blend of ingredients and luxurious feel. The cream's emu oil, paired with ingredients like aloe vera, Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and glucosamine, quickly absorbs into the skin for effective, fast relief.
Research suggests emu oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which, when applied to the skin, can reduce pain and aid in healing inflamed joints and wounds with antibacterial properties. Additionally, MSM has been shown to effectively reduce inflammation. However, some people can find MSM irritating when applied to the skin.
The cream is made in the U.S. and is covered by some flexible spending and health savings accounts, but check with your policy provider to be sure.
Key ingredients: Magnesium, arnica, aloe, lavender, shea butter | Cooling, warming, neutral: Cooling |Scent: Lavender
Our best scented pain relief cream, KT Health's Soothe Magnesium Cream, is a refreshing departure from the typical medicinal odors of the pain relief category. Rather than announcing your pain management to everyone nearby, this beautifully lavender-scented formula pairs therapeutic effectiveness with an aromatherapy-like experience.
The cream delivers dual benefits: effective pain relief and enhanced relaxation. The light blend absorbs rapidly into skin without greasy residue, while skin-nourishing ingredients like aloe, shea butter and jojoba oil provide hydration alongside therapeutic relief. What makes this formula particularly effective is its targeted blend of magnesium for muscle relaxation and arnica for inflammation. This soothing formula combines therapeutic pain relief with the scientifically supported relaxation benefits of lavender to support better sleep and recovery.
KT Health also offers the same effective base in two additional variants: an arnica-focused Activate formula for daytime use and a menthol-based Recover option for more intense cooling relief.
Key ingredients: 1% diclofenac sodium (NSAID) (equivalent to 0.93% diclofenac) | Cooling, warming, neutral: Neutral, slightly cooling | Scent: Subtle
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is our top choice for arthritis pain relief cream due to its potent formulation and ability to effectively relieve arthritis pain. The active ingredient, diclofenac sodium, is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that temporarily blocks the production of pain-signaling chemicals called prostaglandins, treating pain at the source.
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is an FDA-approved formula that the company claims works twice as long as other over-the-counter (OTC) products. Not to be overlooked, the gel comes with the Arthritis Foundation Commendation for its "easy-twist cap," so sore and weak joints aren’t aggravated just by trying to use the product.
It is worth noting that there are risks involved with using diclofenac sodium products, including Voltaren. Using too much or layering the product can lead to side effects and health issues, so speak to your doctor before using Voltaren to ensure it’s a good choice and always follow the instructions on the label for use.
Customers have praised the gel for its performance, quality and the absence of a pungent smell. They appreciate that it helps ease pain, reduces aching and throbbing and continues working for hours. One customer review stated: "My wife and I both have arthritis issues (at different locations, however). After immediately applying the gel to those painful areas for a few days, we both felt some pain relief using Voltaren."
Finding the right topical analgesic involves several key considerations to ensure optimal relief for your specific condition:
A cream's effectiveness depends primarily on having ingredients tailored to your specific pain source. According to Dr. Leia Rispoli, double-board-certified pain specialist at DISC Sports & Spine Center, selecting the right topical formula "really comes down to the source, character and location of pain."
Different conditions respond to different active compounds. Osteoarthritis and joint inflammation typically improve with anti-inflammatory agents, while nerve-related discomfort often responds better to CBD formulations. For general muscle soreness or cramping, Rispoli recommends considering "anti-inflammatory, lidocaine or CBD topical creams" based on the specific pain characteristics. This targeted approach ensures you're addressing the underlying mechanism causing your discomfort rather than just masking symptoms.
The most effective formulations often combine several active ingredients to attack pain through multiple pathways simultaneously, notes Rispoli. Look for products containing lidocaine for numbing effects, methyl salicylate for inflammation reduction or menthol and camphor for sensory distraction. Natural alternatives like arnica and CBD have also shown promising results for specific pain types. Some advanced formulas incorporate salicylates — topical NSAIDs that work by blocking the same inflammatory enzymes targeted by oral medications, but with fewer systemic side effects.
The sensory experience of a muscle pain relief cream significantly influences both comfort and effectiveness. Cooling formulations typically contain menthol or camphor, which create an immediate refreshing sensation that distracts from pain signals while reducing inflammation.
Warming products take the opposite approach, often utilizing capsaicin (derived from hot peppers) to increase blood flow to affected areas. This enhanced circulation helps relax tight muscles and accelerate healing by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues.
The optimal choice often depends on your pain type and personal preference. Acute injuries and inflammatory conditions typically respond better to cooling formulas, while chronic muscle tension and deep tissue pain often benefit more from warming agents. Many users find that alternating between both sensations provides the most comprehensive relief for complex or persistent discomfort.
The best muscle pain relief creams range from budget-friendly options under $10 to premium formulations exceeding $40. This price variation typically reflects differences in ingredient quality, concentration of active compounds and quantity per container. When evaluating cost-effectiveness, consider your usage frequency — a smaller, more expensive product with higher active ingredient concentrations might ultimately provide better value than repeatedly purchasing larger, diluted formulas.
For chronic conditions requiring regular application, subscription options or bulk purchases often offer significant savings over time. Remember that the most expensive option isn't necessarily the most effective for your pain type, so prioritize ingredient suitability over price point alone.
Fragrance can be a deciding factor between otherwise similar products, with many people steering clear of overwhelming medicinal odors. Some people may prefer stronger scents as reassurance that the product is "working," but most prefer subtler or neutral-smelling options, especially for daytime use in professional or social settings.
Beyond preference, fragrance additives can trigger skin irritation, respiratory sensitivity or headaches if you're susceptible. Many manufacturers now offer unscented versions of their most popular formulations, providing the same therapeutic benefits without sensitivity concerns.
Our comprehensive evaluation began with consultation from leading pain management specialists, physical therapists and sports medicine physicians who provided insights into effective active ingredients, appropriate formulation types for different pain conditions and safety considerations for topical analgesics.
Using this expert framework, we systematically assessed popular products across critical factors: active ingredient concentrations, cooling versus warming sensations, scent intensity, absorption rate, residue concerns and price-to-value ratio. We also weighed brand reputation, manufacturing standards, packaging functionality and real-world effectiveness reported through verified customer experiences.
This methodical evaluation allowed us to identify formulations that deliver tangible relief across different pain types and user preferences rather than merely promising temporary comfort. The resulting recommendations represent exceptional options that balance scientific effectiveness with practical usability for everyday pain management needs.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Cream: Biofreeze has earned its reputation as a physical therapist favorite for good reason. This 10% menthol-based formula delivers an immediate cooling sensation that effectively interrupts pain signals, particularly for muscle soreness, joint discomfort and arthritis pain. People appreciate the clean absorption with no sticky residue or strong medicinal odor and the long-lasting pain relief. While the tube size appears modest, the concentrated formula requires only a small amount for effectiveness, meaning it's also excellent value.
Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub: First, the balm provides an invigorating cooling sensation followed by sustained warmth penetrating deep into troubled tissues. This dual-action approach leverages 11% camphor and 11% menthol to create a counterirritant effect that works. What separates this formula is its remarkable staying power — a single application provides more than six hours of noticeable relief, surpassing many similar products. The nongreasy cream absorbs effectively without leaving slippery residue, although the powerful herbal scent is noticeable for some time after application, which some people may not appreciate.
Tylenol Precise: This formula balances 4% lidocaine with a more modest menthol concentration (6%) to create a cooling sensation. The trusted Tylenol name brings quality assurance, while the targeted massaging roller-ball applicator tip allows precise delivery. Reviewers appreciate the subtle scent and quick-to-absorb formula.
Penetrex Arthritis Pain Relief: This effective cream offers effective muscle and joint pain relief, leveraging chili peppers to provide a comfortable warming sensation rather than intense heat. The proprietary natural blend of powerful ingredients, including capsaicin, arnica and vitamin B6, penetrates deeply and targets the source of pain and discomfort. Reviewers find it valuable for arthritis pain, but caution people to wash their hands after use!
Treefrog Topical Pain Relief: If you're looking for a plant-based, vegan formula, packaged in eco-friendly materials, Treefrog is a good bet. Comfrey and rosemary target pain effectively, and the non-greasy gel is absorbed quickly. However, it's on the pricier side at $40 for a 4-ounce jar.
Bengay Maximum Strength: If the typical, medicinal scent of many pain-relief creams isn't appealing, the pleasant tropical jasmine scent of this cream may be an attractive option. The lidocaine desensitizes nerves and delivers soothing, numbing relief for muscle and joint pain. However, some people are not fans of the sticky residue, and there are mixed reports on its durability.
Pain relief creams work by delivering active ingredients directly to the affected area. These ingredients create cooling, warming or numbing sensations, which distract from pain signals. "Think of the nervous system as a super highway — only so many cars can fit on the highway at one time," explains Gerling. When sensory signals travel along the nerve pathways, they crowd out and compete with the signals from the painful site, he adds. Therefore, stimulating sensations from topical creams reduce underlying pain.
Some creams also include anti-inflammatory agents like NSAIDs to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. When applied to the affected areas, they temporarily relieve the minor aches and pains of arthritis, muscle strains or sprains.
Pain relief creams work safely for most adults, but are not one-size-fits-all. If you have sensitive skin, allergies or other health issues, check with your doctor first to avoid unpleasant surprises or complications with medications you're already taking.
Some folks need to be extra careful. Pregnant and nursing people should be aware of absorption concerns and may need to skip topical pain relievers. Parents and caregivers should get a pediatrician's approval before using these products on children whose skin is thinner and absorbs ingredients more readily. Rather than grabbing whatever's on the shelf, these groups benefit from specific recommendations tailored to their situation.
"Many topical creams can be applied daily or even multiple times a day," says Gendai Echezona, a fellowship-trained, triple board-certified anesthesiologist specializing in interventional pain management and lifestyle medicine. However, she emphasizes that "each product comes with instructions regarding the recommended frequency of use" that should be followed precisely.
Adhering to these guidelines isn't just about getting optimal relief — it prevents potential issues from overuse. Applying more cream or using it more frequently than directed won't accelerate healing and may increase side effect risks or diminish effectiveness over time. When in doubt about your specific situation or if you're considering more frequent application than recommended, check with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
The most effective pain relief creams typically contain specialized compounds targeting different pain pathways. For immediate sensory relief, look for menthol (provides a cooling sensation), camphor (creates numbness) or capsaicin (depletes pain-signaling chemicals with continued use).
For deeper anesthetic effects, lidocaine temporarily blocks nerve signals at the application site. If inflammation is your primary concern, topical NSAIDs like diclofenac penetrate to reduce swelling at its source without systemic side effects.
Natural alternatives include arnica for bruising and swelling reduction and CBD for its multi-pathway action against pain and inflammation. The ideal formulation often combines several of these ingredients to address immediate discomfort and underlying causes simultaneously.
While generally safer than oral medications, pain relief creams can cause mild reactions in some users. The most common side effects include temporary redness, itching or warm sensations beyond the intended therapeutic effect. These typically resolve quickly once the product is washed off.
True allergic reactions are rare but require immediate attention. Warning signs include significant swelling, widespread rash or breathing difficulties after application. To minimize risks, always perform a small patch test before widespread use, never apply to broken skin and avoid covering treated areas with bandages or heating pads.
If you experience uncomfortable or concerning reactions, discontinue use immediately and consult your healthcare provider, especially if symptoms persist after washing the area thoroughly with mild soap and water.
Matthew Cavanaugh, chiropractor, Cavanaugh Chiropractic Clinic, Lafayette, La.
Dr. Gendai Echezona, triple-board-certified anesthesiologist, pain management specialist, Premier PCW, Norwalk, Conn.
John Gallucci, physical therapist, athletic trainer, chief executive officer, JAG Physical Therapy, Bridgewater, N.J.
Dr. Michael Gerling, board-certified orthopedic spine surgeon, founder, Gerling Institute, New York, N.Y.
Dr. Leia Rispoli, double-board-certified interventional pain management specialist and physiatrist, DISC Sports and Spine Center, Newport Beach, Calif.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
