Topical analgesics may be used to help with osteoarthritis pain. Topical analgesics involve creams, rubs and ointmentswhich a person rubs directly on the painful joint. Most of these topicals can be purchased over the counter.
The most common topical ingredients involve capsaisin, counterirritants or salicylates.
Capsaisin is made from cayenne peppers and depletes the neurotransmitter responsible for pain messages being sent to the brain.
Counter-irritants disturb the nerve endings and distract the brain’s attention from the pain.
Salicylates are believed to block prostaglandins (inflammatory proteins) and cause a distraction to the painful messages going to the brain.
One topical drug, Voltaren Gel, must be obtained by a prescription and is a topical form of the NSAID diclofenac. It shares similar side effects to oral NSAIDs. (See post # 11)
Before using topical analgesics, I recommend you talk with your doctor, and learn about safe usage of these drugs. More information can be found at http://www.arthritistoday.org/conditions/osteoarthritis/treatment/oa-medications.php
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