8 Best Anti Inflammatory Creams for Arthritis (2022)

Arthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which can worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

If you have mild or moderate arthritis joint pain, a topical pain reliever may be useful to help ease the symptoms. Here are the best anti inflammatory cream that you can buy online today!

A. Topical NSAIDs for Arthritis

Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory such as such as topical diclofenac penetrate the skin and help reduce pain locally. They work best on joints that are closer to the surface, such as the hands, knees, elbows and ankles. However, they should not be used if you are also taking oral NSAIDS.

NSAIDs side effects | Are topical NSAIDs safe?

Topical NSAIDs are less likely than oral NSAIDs to cause gastrointestinal side effects or to interact with other medications, although elderly people may be more susceptible to these effects. Short-lived, mild redness at the site of application is the most commonly reported side effect. (Source)

1. Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for Topical Arthritis Pain Relief

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Anti inflammatory cream for arthritis

Voltaren arthritis pain gel cream contains diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Diclofenac works by reducing substances in the body that cause pain and inflammation.

While most topical arthritis pain relief products heat or cool the surface of the skin, Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel treats the pain. The Voltaren emulgel formula, which combines a cream and a gel, penetrates deep through the skin to deliver powerful arthritis pain relief. When applied to the skin it creates a cooling and moisturizing effect. That’s the Voltaren difference – topical arthritis pain relief when and where you need it.

– No Prescription Needed | Topical anti inflammatory cream over the counter

Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 36,500 global ratings

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel Reviews:
Love it I have lowback arthritis..and I was in pain due to I’m a healthcare worker . I put this on and it relief my pain . Felt brand new the next day. Good to have. Love it

B. Arnica Cream for Arthritis

Arnica has been used in homeopathic medicine for centuries for dozens of pathological conditions, including joint and muscle pain, inflammation, and arthritis [Source]. Arnica has various pharmacologic activities, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-microbial, antirheumatic, antiarthritic, and antineoplastic activities [Source]

Arnica is often sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) cream or gel.

Is topical arnica safe?
When applied to the skin: Arnica is possibly safe when applied to unbroken skin, short-term.

2. Topricin Pain Relief Therapy Cream

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Topricin is moisturizing, non-irritating, odorless and non-staining. It supports the body’s natural processes that work to Heal the Cells Causing the Pain. Topricin has 22-years of history in the medical community and is used by hundreds of thousands all over the world.

Topricin contains 11-natural biomedicines delivering reliable pain relief, improving quality-of-life, and providing a strong adjunct to professional care with no side effects and won’t interfere with other medications

The safest alternative for people who cannot tolerate prescription and non-prescription OTC oral pain medication. It stimulates and supports your body’s desire to “”Heal the Cells that are Causing the Pain””. Topricin is safe effective and ideal treatment for the entire family and for all skin types.

– Topricin Pain Relief Cream
– Best cream for muscle knots

Ratings
4.4 out of 5 – more than 4,800 global ratings

Topricin Pain Relief Therapy Reviews

It works wonders on the muscle knots in my shoulders.

3. Penetrex Joint and Muscle Therapy Cream

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Best Muscle and Joint Relief Cream

– Penetrex Pain Relief Cream
– Intensive Concentrate for Relief & Recovery
– Whole-Body Formula with Arnica, Vitamin B6 & MSM (DMSO2)
– Penetrex is recommended for use on its own & is safe to use in conjunction with complementary therapies such as Heating Pads, Ice Packs, Back Massagers, Knee Braces and Supplements.

– Relief & Recovery for Joints & Muscles on your Back, Neck, Knee, Hand, Foot, and more.
– Contains unique ingredients including Arnica, Glucosamine, MSM (DMSO2), Choline, Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense) & Vitamin B6 deep into the tissue to soothe affected areas.– Vanishing scent / non-greasy / non-sticky / non-staining / paraben-free
– Vegan and Cruelty-free (never tested on animals).

Ratings
4.3 out of 5 – 70,458 global ratings

Penetrex Pain Relief Cream Reviews

If I wake up with a sore back or neck, I rub this in and it instantly diminishes the pain at least 75 percent. I rubbed it into my hands and wrists and it helped my carpel tunnel at least 40- 50 percent.

4. Kneipp Arnica Joint & Muscle Intensive Cream

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Kneipp arnica cream contains arnica tincture for a powerful dose of botanical soothing benefits released by nature. Overworked, exhausted muscles and pangs don’t stand a chance against this intensive solution. It is easy to apply and fast acting so you can get back to your schedule.

– Vegan and contain no harmful preservatives, parabens or mineral oils.
– Soothe and comfort joints and muscles
– Best pain relief cream for joint pain

Benefits of Arnica Extract
– Help reduce pain related to sore muscles and joints
– Help heal bruises faster
– Aid in reducing swelling and inflammation
– Help speed recovery
– Help ease joint stiffness and aches
– Help reduce swelling from insect bites

Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 400 global ratings

Kneipp Arnica Muscle Pain Relief Cream Reviews

I was looking for a non-greasy cream to alleviate sore muscles and joints ‘the day after’ all day gardening work. This cream is non-greasy once worked into the skin and my muscles did not feel sore the next day. Arnica is known to help with bruised skin. Will buy this again and check out other products offered by Kneipp.
Sent it to a friend recently and it was a great success

C. Lidocaine cream for arthritis

Lidocaine is another alternative pain remedy for arthritis joint pain. Lidocaine is a local anaesthetic, which numbs the area where you’ve used it. It works by stopping nerves from sending pain signals to your brain. Moreover, lidocaine has a potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. If you have liver problems or take heart rhythm medications, consult your doctor first.

Is lidocaine cream safe / Is numbing cream safe?
Topical lidocaine is typically safe when used sparingly and as advised. Misuse, overuse, or overdose, on the other hand, can result in a variety of serious health issues.

But if you have concerning side effects, stop using it and consult to your doctor.

5. Aspercreme with Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream

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One (1) 4.3-ounce bottle of Aspercreme with Lidocaine Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream. Topical numbing creme with 4% lidocaine targets more pain receptors to numb away minor pains with no irritation or burning Among counterirritant topical pain relievers.

– Fast acting Formula
– Fragrance-free and non-greasy.
– Where to Use: Back, Neck, Shoulder, Knee, Elbow, Hand, Wrist, Foot

Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 2,500 global ratings

Aspercreme with Lidocaine Reviews:
I have arthritis from head to foot. On bad days, this product takes the edge off and makes the pain tolerable. I recommend it to any chronic pain patient.

6. Bengay Pain Relieving Lidocaine Cream, Non-Greasy Topical Analgesic Cream

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Best arthritis cream for knees

This pain reliever cream works to desensitize aggravated nerves with the numbing relief of maximum strength 4% lidocaine HCl as an active ingredient.

– A fresh tropical jasmine scent
– Great for back, neck, shoulder, knee, elbow, hand & wrist pain, as well as backaches, joint pain and arthritis

Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 9,500 global ratings

Bengay Pain Relieving Lidocaine Cream Reviews

I get woken up from a dead sleep from left knee pain. I believe it’s probably arthritis. Anyway, I thought I’d try this product out due to it being lidocaine and the scent sounded decent, otherwise no way.
I rub this on both knees b4 bed and it’s working wonders thus far.
I’d recommend using this to anyone who suffers arthritis type pains!

D. Trolamine Salicylate for Arthritis

Trolamine salicylate belongs to a class of drugs known as salicylates. It is used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles/joints (such as arthritis). Moreover, they may reduce inflammatory activity.

If you are sensitive to aspirin or take a medication that may interact with aspirin, talk with your doctor before using a salicylate.

7. Aspercreme Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream with Aloe

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Maximum strength Aspercreme is a topical pain relief cream. Trolamine salicylate 10% is the active ingredient, a topical analgesic. Trolamine is applied to where you need it, providing targeted therapy. Rub directly onto the affected area, such as your back or knee.

Aspercreme does not include aspirin. Aspirin is a salicylate, closely related to trolamine salicylate, the active ingredient in Aspercreme. If you are allergic to aspirin, consult your doctor before using Aspercreme.

– Best pain relief cream for tendonitis

Ratings
4.5 out of 5 – more than 4,900 global ratings

Aspercreme Max Strength Pain Topical Rub for Pain Reviews

This stuff really works! I’ve been using it for over 15 years for cycling and backpacking. It works great and I’m 67 years old.

8. Blue-Emu Pain Relief Cream Maximum Arthritis 

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Active Ingredients: Trolamine Salicylate (10%). Used for temporarily relieves minor pain associated with arthritis, simple backache muscle strains, sprains, bruises and cramps. Deep penetrating and long lasting.

– Odor free.
– American’s #1 EMU oil formula.
– Contains EMU oil.

Ratings
4.3 out of 5 – more than 3,850 global ratings

Blue Emu Pain Relief Cream Maximum Arthritis Reviews:
This product is easy to apply, has absolutely no odor, and is reasonably priced. I recommend it for relief of arthritis pain.

FAQ

a. Causes of arthritis

The two main types of arthritis — osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis — damage joints in different ways.

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in your joints gradually deteriorates. While Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease; the immune system attacks the joints, beginning with the lining of joints.

b. Why does arthritis cause inflammation?

Osteoarthritis causes changes in the bones and deterioration of the connective tissues that attach muscle to bone and hold the joint together. If cartilage in a joint is severely damaged, the joint lining may become inflamed and swollen.

However, in rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule, a tough membrane that encloses all the joint parts. This lining (synovial membrane) becomes inflamed and swollen. (Source)

c. How Can I Get Rid of Inflammation Naturally?

– Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Researchers have identified certain foods that can help control inflammation. Many of them are found in the so-called Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes fish, vegetables and olive oil, among other staples.

There’s a standardized research tool that’s updated regularly that allows anybody to see if they’re eating foods we know cause chronic inflammation. This is called the The Dietary Inflammatory Index or DII. The choices of pro-inflammatory foods were initially based on studies showing that certain foods like trans-fatty acids (unsaturated fats) caused a spike in serum inflammatory markers in people.


– Autoimmune Protocol Diet
The Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) is a diet that aims to reduce inflammation, pain, and other symptoms caused by autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and rheumatoid arthritis (pubmed).

Many people who have followed the AIP diet report improvements in the way they feel, as well as reductions in common symptoms of autoimmune disorders, such as fatigue and gut or joint pain. Yet, while research on this diet is promising, it’s also limited.

The AIP diet is an elimination diet designed to help reduce inflammation or other symptoms caused by autoimmune disorders.

It’s comprised of two phases designed to help you identify and ultimately avoid the foods that may trigger inflammation and disease-specific symptoms. Research on its efficacy is limited but appears promising.

Due to its limited downsides, people with autoimmune disorders generally have little to lose by giving it a try. However, it’s likely best to seek guidance from a qualified health professional to ensure you continue to meet your nutrient needs throughout all phases of this diet.

d. Best exercise for knee arthritis

Source: 10 Best Knee Arthritis Exercises for Pain Relief - Ask Doctor Jo

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