home Drugs The best ointment for joint pain. Medicine for joint pain. The best ointments and tablets for joint pain

The best ointment for joint pain. Medicine for joint pain. The best ointments and tablets for joint pain

Article publication date: 11/08/2013

Article updated date: November 23, 2018

Ointments for joint pain came to us from ancient times. During archaeological excavations, signs of joint disease were found in human skeletons dating back to the 5th century BC. The first written evidence of problems with the musculoskeletal system dates back to the 2nd century BC. Obviously, the pharmaceutical industry in the modern sense did not exist then.

In ancient times, people coped with joint disease exclusively with the help of external means. Healers, healers, and shamans tried to treat joint pain with bloodletting, cauterization with a hot iron, and also used various means natural origin, both herbal and mineral: infusions, decoctions, lotions, compresses, rubs and ointments. Beekeeping products were widely used: bee venom and propolis, snake venom, as well as tinctures, decoctions and ointments from willow or willow bark, which contain salicylates - substances with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect, the progenitors of aspirin and other drugs NSAID groups(non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

A modern range of ointments for joint pain

Of all the means and methods, modern pharmacists have mostly adopted ointments. Probably due to high profitability their production today is on a broad basis. A person without medical or pharmaceutical education It is quite difficult to navigate this diversity, to assess the benefits or harms of certain drugs, especially in the long term. Moreover, manufacturers often do not skimp on advertising.

Currently, the current pharmaceutical classification (proposed by WHO and adopted in Russia) includes 4 subgroups of drugs for external use for diseases of the musculoskeletal system:

Products based on NSAIDs: ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketoprofen, ibuprofen, etc. Examples of such ointments: Nise, Ketonal, Indomethocinic, Finalgel and others.
Pepper preparations based on capsaicin (a substance contained in pepper and responsible for the “hot” effect) and its derivatives: Kapsin, Nicoflex, balm “Golden Star” (aka “Star”), Espol, Capsicum, Finalgon, etc.
Preparations based on salicylic acid and its derivatives: Bom-Benge, Ben-Gay, Viprosal, Efkamon, Nizhvisal, etc.
Other means that include this famous drug such as Dimexide, as well as a number of combined and homeopathic remedies.

Also in this classification, drugs for external use for joint pain can be found in the group “Other drugs for the treatment musculoskeletal system" It includes chondroprotectors, which are fashionable nowadays - drugs that protect and restore cartilage, including ointments based on them. The main active ingredients in them are mainly two components: chondroitin sulfate and glycosaminoglycans, incl. hyaluronic acid.

With the current abundance various means, creams, gels - it is sometimes very difficult for a non-specialist to understand them

NSAIDs and chondroprotectors: more expensive does not mean better

The most expensive and actively advertised today are ointments based on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and chondroprotectors. At the same time, these are the medicines cause the most controversy and doubt regarding their effectiveness. The fact is that their active ingredients (especially chonroprotectors) have rather large molecules that actually cannot penetrate through skin cells into the deep layers of tissue. For example, when using the drug Diclofenac externally directly in knee-joint no more than 5-7% of the active substance penetrates.

To date, there are virtually no large-scale studies of local therapy with these drugs that could reliably confirm their effectiveness. And those studies that have been conducted do not correspond modern principles evidence-based medicine, and therefore cannot be accepted by her.

The Novartis company (manufacturer of the Voltaren emulgel) published the results of one of latest research in this area. According to the data presented, the effectiveness of the Voltaren emulgel was comparable to taking Ibuprofen tablets with fewer side effects. The testing included 2 control groups: those taking Ibuprofen orally and those using topical Diclofenac. However, this study did not have a control group that used petroleum jelly, lanolin, or another inert ointment base as a topical ointment.

It is possible that in this group the effect would be equivalent to the effect among patients using external NSAIDs. The fact is that at certain stages of the disease positive effect for sore joints, the rubbing process itself has, during which local blood circulation improves and reflex muscle spasm is eliminated - and this can really give a noticeable effect in a number of cases (including when there are no signs of acute inflammation).

In addition, manufacturers sometimes resort to cunning. For example, the composition of the popular Chondroxide ointment includes dimethyl sulfoxide (dimexide), which itself has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and local analgesic effect, but is several times cheaper.

Keep in mind!

External agents based on NSAIDs can be very effective in the development of synovitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the joint), because it is located closer to the surface of the skin than bones or cartilage. Therefore, the active substance will be more likely to penetrate into it.

Ultrasound helps the active substances penetrate deep into the tissue. Therefore, products for external use with glucocorticoid hormones (which are close to NSAIDs in their mechanism of anti-inflammatory action) and ointments with NSAIDs are actively used in ultrasound physiotherapy. The process of introducing drugs into the body using ultrasonic waves is called phonophoresis. Unlike simple “smearing,” this procedure gives a pronounced effect with minimal side reactions (in the absence of contraindications).

Pepper and salicylic acid: cheap and cheerful

Products for external use with pepper preparations, its derivatives and salicylic acid derivatives are simple and available means, which at certain stages of the disease give an excellent effect, eliminating pain and inflammation in the joint area. They have local anesthetic and irritant effects. Most ointments have combined composition and contain anti-inflammatory, analgesic and locally irritating substances at the same time. In addition to pepper derivatives, bee and snake venoms, camphor, turpentine, essential oils of eucalyptus, peppermint, clove and their synthetic analogues are widely used as ingredients.

Why are these drugs so effective?

They warm, dilate blood vessels, causing the outflow of blood from the source of inflammation, reduce swelling, restore blood circulation - thereby helping to subside the inflammatory process and help relieve muscle spasm around the sore joint.

In addition to the above mechanisms important role plays the so-called “principle of dominance according to Ukhtomsky”. During an illness, a focus of pain appears in the cerebral cortex, which closes on itself all the “attention” of higher nervous activity, and thus aggravates the symptoms, closing vicious circle and preventing recovery. For effective therapy It is important to switch attention, therefore warming and locally irritating procedures are also called distracting. Sometimes they are enough to get you on the path to recovery.

Nicoflex and the popular balm Golden Star - pepper preparations based on capsaicin

Effective folk recipes

Some patients prefer not to spend money on branded packaging and name, but to prepare warming ointments themselves according to grandma's recipes. Mustard, red pepper, turpentine, propolis, pine needles, eucalyptus or clove oil are often added to their composition.

Here is one of the simplest and effective recipes: mix ground red pepper with interior (pork) fat or lard (lard is fat rendered from lard, it can be replaced with lanolin or petroleum jelly) in a ratio of 1:2 (add 2 tablespoons of fat to 1 spoon of red pepper). For pain, rub a small amount of the product into the joint area.

There are also several variations of the popular ointment recipe with camphor, mustard and egg whites:

Take 50 g mustard powder and 50 ml camphor oil, dilute in 100 g of ethyl alcohol, add three egg whites to the solution.
In another option, you need to add 50 ml to 50 g of mustard camphor alcohol and then mix with three egg whites ( ethanol not required).

These medications should be used with caution, as they can cause local and general allergic reactions and other complications.

Important information about ointment treatment

No medications, including those for external use, should be used without examination and consultation with a doctor, as they may be missed serious illness or a dangerous complication. Before using even drugs that seem harmless to you, be sure to consult your doctor.

Local treatment with ointments has contraindications. Among them may be:

suspicion of purulent or specific infectious processes;
pronounced inflammatory changes in the joint area;
accumulation of a large amount of fluid in the joint cavity;
allergy;
general serious condition of the patient;
heart attacks, strokes and other serious diseases.

If a strong burning sensation appears after applying the ointment, it should not be tolerated, as local allergic reactions may occur. However, you should not try to wash off the ointment with water: the substances it contains, as a rule, do not dissolve in water, but are highly soluble in fats, so the irritated area should be wiped with a cotton swab. vegetable oil.

For people with sensitive skin and nervous system (emotional), it is better to mix “hot” ointments with vegetable oil, petroleum jelly or lanolin before use.

Do not perceive ointments as a panacea for all ailments or magic wand. Treatment should be comprehensive and aimed at eliminating the causes and mechanisms of development of the disease.

It is important to pay attention not only to the name of the product, but also to its composition. Often ointments with the same composition are produced by different manufacturers under different names and sometimes have an unjustified difference in price.

Owner and responsible for the site and content: Afinogenov Alexey.

Arthralgia, or joint pain, can be a consequence of many various pathologies and states. As a rule, the symptom is caused by metabolic, rheumatic, tumor, systemic and acute infectious diseases. Also, joint pain is often associated with endocrine and degenerative pathologies.

Pain syndrome is caused by irritating effects on the nerve endings that come from the synovial capsule. Allergens, toxins, salt crystals, osteophytes, etc. can act as irritants.

Causes of pain

The main diseases of which arthralgia is a symptom are:

Treatment of arthralgia should be carried out after consultation with specialists, which, having determined the root cause pain syndrome, will prescribe the necessary treatment tactics. Drug therapy carried out with the help various groups drugs in the form of injections, tablets and products for external use.

Ask your question to a neurologist for free

Irina Martynova. Graduated from Voronezh State University medical University them. N.N. Burdenko. Clinical resident and neurologist of the Moscow Polyclinic.

It is ointments and gels that provide quick therapeutic effect, exerting a local effect on diseased joints.

For treatment, external agents of various medicinal groups are used.

Expert opinion

Mitrukhanov Eduard Petrovich

Doctor - neurologist, city clinic, Moscow. Education: Russian State Medical University, Russian State Budgetary Educational Institution of Further Professional Education medical Academy postgraduate education of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Volgograd State Medical University, Volgograd.

Only a doctor can determine which ointments are suitable for the patient and what to apply to the painful joint in each specific case.

The most popular and highly effective group used to treat joint pain. Having a quick healing effect, gels and ointments of the NSAID group help relieve joint pain, relieve inflammation and reduce the effects of irritation nerve endings in tissues. The analgesic effect is due to the suppression of the inflammatory process and the removal of swelling.

Anti-inflammatory ointments reduce muscle stiffness and restore motor function of joints.

The active ingredient of the gel is ketoprofen, of which each tube contains 0.75 g. Additionally, the composition includes lavender oil, ethyl alcohol, macrogol, distilled water and diethanolamine.

Ketoprofen is indicated for local treatment of pain in musculoskeletal pathologies of traumatic or rheumatic origin, such as rupture and sprain of ligaments, muscles and tendons, bruises, tandenitis, muscle injuries and spasms, lumbago, etc.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to the components of the product, acetylsalicylic acid and other non-steroidal drugs. In addition, use is not recommended for weeping dermatoses, eczema, infected wounds and abrasions.

The drug is applied in a thin layer to the inflamed area of the body and rubbed into the skin with light massage movements. After applying the gel, apply a sterile dry bandage over it. Frequency of application 2-3 times a day, duration of therapy 7-10 days.

Average price from 60 rubles.

The active substance of the drug is nimesulide. Additional ingredients include alcohol and thimerosal.

Indicated in the treatment of arthritis of any origin, lumbago, osteoarthritis, Bakhterev's disease, arthralgia, myalgia, pain after injury, inflammatory pathologies in the tendons. It can also be used for painful menstruation, articular rheumatism, exacerbation of gout. Widely used for symptomatic treatment osteochondrosis, radiculitis and sciatica.

Contraindicated in patients with sensitivity to components, bronchial asthma, pathologies of the hematopoietic system, heart failure, and bleeding of various origins. The gel should not be used for renal and liver failure, as well as for patients suffering from alcoholism.

Nimisulide is applied externally, rubbing into the skin in the area where it occurs. joint pain. The application area must first be thoroughly washed and dried. The gel is distributed on the skin, squeezing 2-3 cm of the drug out of the tube. Using light circular movements, the gel is rubbed over the surface of the skin. Frequency of use: 3-4 times a day for no longer than 10 days.

Average price from 230 rubles.

The active ingredient is sodium diclofenac, as additional ingredients it contains ethyl alcohol, propylene glycol, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, lavender oil, carbomer, trolamine and water.

Diclofenac is used as medicinal drug for post-traumatic inflammation, rheumatic pathologies, muscle and joint diseases, which are accompanied by severe pain.

Contraindicated in hypersensitivity to substances included in the composition of the drug, bronchoobstruction (including a history), rhinitis and allergic reactions to NSAIDs. During lactation and latest dates Diclofenac is also prohibited for use during pregnancy.

Diclofenac is intended for external use. Rub into the skin at the site of pain 2-3 times a day, in an amount that depends on the severity of the syndrome, but not more than 2 g (4.5 cm). A single dose in patients under 1 2 years of age should not exceed 1 g (2 cm).

The duration of therapy is determined by the doctor, but, as a rule, does not exceed 15 days.

From 50 rubles

Butadion

Gel based on phenylbutazone, which has a local anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.

Recommended for the treatment of rheumatism, polyarthritis, Bakhterev's disease, arthritis of any origin, sprains, arthrosis, synovitis. Possesses high efficiency in the treatment of lumbago, sciatica, osteochondrosis and pain due to joint diseases. Also used as complex therapy with nodular

You should not use Butadione for bronchial obstruction, rhinitis and urticaria, which have ever occurred while taking NSAIDs. The drug is also not prescribed to pregnant and lactating women and children under 14 years of age. Do not apply the drug if the integrity of the skin is damaged.

Apply the gel for joint pain externally up to 3 times a day, using 2-3 cm of the product squeezed out of the tube. No need to rub. The course of therapy is up to 10 days in a row.

Average price from 160 rubles.

Warming and locally irritating

These ointments and gels for pain are made on the basis of capsaicin, the venom of bees or snakes, various essential oils. Drugs of this group help improve blood circulation in the area of application and stimulate metabolic processes in cartilage tissue. Having a pronounced warming effect, such ointments effectively reduce spastic pain and activate metabolism in sore joints.

Expert opinion

Filimoshin Oleg Alexandrovich

Doctor - neurologist, city clinic of Orenburg. Education: Orenburg State Medical Academy, Orenburg.

The effect of using warming ointments is rapid pain relief and restoration of joint function.

Consists of benzyl nicotinate, vanillyl nonamide, camphor, turpentine and dimethyl sulfoxide. Additionally, the composition includes polysorbate, bronopol, cetyl stearyl sulfate, cetyl stearyl alcohol and distilled water.

Indicated for myalgia, arthralgia.

Contraindicated for skin diseases, during pregnancy and lactation, as well as for children under 10 years of age. If the patient is allergic to the components included in the composition, use is unacceptable.

To treat arthralgia and myalgia, use 1-3 g of ointment (2-4 cm), which is applied to the painful area and rubbed. It must be used 2-3 times a day for 10 days.

Average price from 280 rubles.

Viprosal ointment contains snake venom (viper venom), camphor, turpentine and salicylic acid. Additionally included are paraffin, petrolatum, glycerin, emulsifier, sodium chloride and water.

Indicated for the treatment of arthralgia of various origins, myalgia, neuralgia, radiculitis and sciatica.

Use is not allowed when skin diseases, active tuberculosis, high temperature, general exhaustion. Also contraindicated in case of circulatory failure, tendency to vasospasms, functional disorders of the liver and kidneys.

The ointment is used every 8-12 hours, 5-10 g, rubbed into the skin with massage movements. The average duration of therapy is 10 days.

Average price from 240 rubles.

The drug contains levomenthol, camphor and eucalyptus oil. Additionally, paraffin, petroleum jelly and clove oil are present.

Used as a local anesthetic, a “distracting” agent in the treatment of myalgia, arthralgia and myositis.

Contraindicated in patients with high sensitivity to the substances of the drug, with diseases of the dermis, impaired skin integrity, and children under 10 years of age.

Ointment for joint pain is applied to the painful area and rubbed into the skin. The procedure is carried out 2-3 times a day for 2 weeks.

Average price from 70 rubles.

Features of the use of warming preparations

When using ointments and gels with a warming effect, you must adhere to the basic rules:

It is first necessary to conduct a sensitivity test by applying a certain amount of the drug used to the area near the wrist, under the knee or elbow. If within 3 hours signs appear at the application site allergic rashes, or appeared in the patient's condition alarming symptoms, the drug cannot be used.
The use of the drug is prohibited for inflammatory pathologies.
Use in children is unacceptable.
If the product gets on the mucous membranes, rinse them thoroughly with running water.
After applying the drug, you must wash your hands with soap.
You should not use ointments from this group immediately before going to bed.

Chondroprotectors

Local chondroprotectors, which are based on glucosamine and chondroitin, used in the treatment of degenerative, dystrophic pathologies of the skeleton. Active substances help eliminate inflammation, stimulate tissue regeneration. The use of chondroprotectors helps stimulate the synthesis of synovial fluid and restore connective tissue, thereby reducing pain.

The use of ointments of this group leads to recovery bone tissue naturally.

The ointment contains 50 g of chondroitin sulfate, and additional ingredients are dimethyl sulfoxide, petroleum jelly, lanolin and water.

Indicated for the treatment and prevention of osteoarthrosis and osteochondrosis.

Cannot be used when acute inflammations, skin disorders, tissue necrosis and sensitivity to the drug.

Apply ointment for joint pain twice a day to the skin in the area of pain, rub in for 2-3 minutes. As a rule, the therapeutic course is 15-25 days.

Average price from 100 rubles.

The composition includes chondroitin sulfate, dimexide, propylene glycol, isopropanol, ethyl alcohol, sodium metabisulfite, propyl parahydroxybenzoate, methyl parahydroxybenzoate, carbomer, flavoring and distilled water.

Chondroxide is used for the prevention and treatment of spinal osteochondrosis and osteoarthritis of peripheral joints.

Do not use if there is hypersensitivity or damage to the integrity of the skin. Due to the lack of data on the safety of use in children, pregnant and lactating women, the use of ointment for joint pain to treat this category of patients is not recommended.

The ointment is applied over the area of inflammation 2-3 times a day, without rubbing a large number of until completely absorbed. The course of treatment ranges from 2 weeks to 3 months.

Average price from 400 rubles.

Contains chondroitin, glucosamine, dihydroquercetin, calcium carbonate, extracts of willow bark, horsetail, and dandelion.

Contraindication for use is intolerance to the components.

Average price from 300 rubles.

Ointments and gels based on salicylic acid

Nizhvisal V

Used to treat pain syndrome for pathologies of the musculoskeletal and nervous peripheral systems.

Contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity, skin pathologies, fever, active tuberculosis.

The ointment is applied in parts to the area of pain, 5-10 g, 1 time per day for 10 days.

Average price from 200 rubles.

Salvisar

Used to treat arthralgia, sciatica, neuralgia, myalgia, radiculitis.

Not recommended for use in cases of hypersensitivity, cerebral circulatory insufficiency, tuberculosis, elevated temperature, renal and liver failure. It is also contraindicated in case of general exhaustion and predisposition to vasospasms.

Use once a day, rubbing up to 10 g of the drug into the skin over the joint area. The course of treatment is 7-10 days.

Average price from 310 rubles.

Combination drugs

External products in this category relieve pain, eliminate inflammation and promote tissue regeneration. They also have antimicrobial and antithrombotic effects. Quickly penetrating into the joint tissue, such ointments destroy blood clots in the capillaries, which helps improve blood circulation in the affected area.

The use of combined ointments for joint pain contributes to regression of the inflammatory process, relief of pain and restoration of motor functions of the joint.

The ointment contains heparin and dimethyl sulfoxide.

Prescribed for the treatment of hematomas and swelling, inflammatory processes in muscles and tendons. It is also recommended for closed joint injuries, epicondylitis of the shoulder, tendonitis, tendovaginitis and bursitis. It is also used to treat neuralgia and polyarthritis.

Contraindicated in acute disorders liver and kidney functions, bronchial asthma, open wounds. Not recommended for pregnant women and patients during lactation. Susceptibility to the substances of the drug is also a contraindication.

Dolobene is used externally, covering the skin in the affected area with a thin layer. It should be used no more than 4 times a day for 10 days. After application, doctors advise waiting a few minutes and covering the area with an airtight bandage.

Average price from 320 rubles.

Hepatrombin

Contains sodium heparin, dimethyl sulfoxide, dexpanthenol, macrogol glyceryl hydroxystearate, carbomer, isopropanol, lemon, rosemary and pine oils, distilled water.

Indications for the use of ointment are polyarthritis of the glenohumeral joint, hematomas and inflammatory processes V soft tissues, tendons, ligaments. It is also recommended as a treatment for bursitis, deforming osteoarthritis, neuralgia, tendonitis and tendovaginitis.

You should not use the drug if you are sensitive to its components, have bronchial asthma, or have insufficiency of renal and hepatic functions. Gepatrombin is not recommended for use by pregnant and lactating women, children and patients with open wounds on the skin.

The gel is applied to the skin area above the painful area under a bandage. The procedure is carried out 1-2 times a day for 7-10 days.

Average price from 270 rubles.

Homeopathic remedies

External homeopathic remedies have analgesic, anti-inflammatory and regenerating effects.

The ointments are based on mineral and plant substances.

Used in complex treatment inflammatory pathologies organs and tissues. It is most widely used in the treatment of the musculoskeletal system and post-traumatic conditions.

Traumeel is not suitable for patients with tuberculosis, leukemia, collagenosis and multiple sclerosis. It is also prohibited for use in cases of high sensitivity to the drug, HIV/AIDS, and autoimmune diseases.

Apply externally, rubbing a small amount of gel into the skin over the painful joint. Frequency of use - 2-3 times a day, duration of therapy - 10-15 days. It is recommended to apply a gauze bandage over the applied drug.

Average price from 450 rubles.

Watch a video about the drug

Regular use of the drug helps stimulate blood circulation and resolve hematomas.

Contraindicated for people with intolerance to the components and violation of the integrity of the dermis.

There are no data on the use of Horse Ointment in pregnant, lactating women and children, so its use in this group of patients is not recommended.

Apply the product externally, rubbing a small amount into the skin over the painful area 4-5 times a day. The duration of therapy is 7-10 days.

Average price from 675 rubles.

Shark oil

Cream for joint pain based on animal fat, widely used for the prevention and treatment of pathologies of the joints and spine. Has an analgesic, anti-inflammatory effect, helps restore normal metabolic process, activates blood circulation and restores joint mobility.

The product includes:

Contraindicated in people with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug.

Before starting treatment, it is necessary to conduct a sensitivity test.

Apply Shark oil 2-3 times a day, rubbing into the area of the affected joint. The duration of therapy is 4-6 months.

There are many varieties of the drug, among which “Shark oil and mustard with honey” is also highly effective for joint pain.

The use of ointments and gels to prevent joint pain should be agreed with your doctor.

Making ointment at home

You can prepare a medicinal ointment for joint pain at home. One of the most effective is an ointment made from camphor and mustard.

To prepare the medicine you will need:

75 g camphor;
75 g mustard powder;
75 ml alcohol;
yolk of 1 chicken egg.

After mixing and mixing the ingredients well into a homogeneous mass, it must be placed in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

Use 2-3 times a day for 10 days in a row.

Briefly

Assign specific remedy Only a specialist can do it based on the patient’s diagnosis.
Gels and ointments of the NSAID group: Ketoprofen, Nimulid, Diclofenac, Butadione.
Warming and locally irritating ointments: Capsicam, Viprosal, Gevkamen.
Chondroprotectors: Chondroitin-Acos, Chondroxide, Arthrocin.
Combined ointments: Dolobene, Gepatrombin.
Homeopathic remedies: Traumeel, Cel T, Horse ointment, Shark oil.
Directions for use: perform a sensitivity test, do not use in childhood, in case of contact with mucous membranes, rinse, do not use on open wounds, do not apply before going to bed, be sure to wash your hands after use.

Excessive exercise, heavy lifting, impacts, injuries and an unbalanced diet can cause muscle and joint pain. An inflammatory process often develops, so others join unpleasant symptoms. Joint creams reduce symptoms inflammatory diseases, eliminate pain and restore joint mobility. But it is necessary to choose the right product, since there are many varieties.

When are topical medications effective?

The use of joint ointments is not always justified. For the treatment of certain diseases, for example, or osteoarthritis local treatment not enough. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) must be taken orally. Only combination treatment will help improve your well-being.

Gels for treating joints are effective in the following cases:

for pain due to arthritis or arthrosis;
in inflammatory and degenerative processes;
when a joint is damaged as a result of a bruise or other injury, to accelerate tissue regeneration;
to warm up the muscles;
for muscle pain after training.

Ointment for joints is the most affordable and safe means to relieve symptoms joint diseases. But it cannot always be used.

Use is contraindicated in case of pustular skin lesions, individual intolerance or allergy to a component of the local product.

Varieties

The range of ointments for treating joints is huge, but five main groups can be distinguished:

anti-inflammatory;
warming up;
painkillers;
homeopathic remedies;
chondroprotectors.

They differ in action and scope of application.

Homeopathic ointments, Dimexide and glucocorticoid-based products are auxiliary drugs in the treatment of diseases of the joints of the limbs. TO last group belongs to Traumeel, Badyaga forte, Hepatothrombin, Tsel T and others.

Homeopathic remedies are made from plant and mineral substances.

Anti-inflammatory

Pain-relieving ointments for joints and muscles contain substances that reduce inflammation. These are diclofenac, indomethacin, nimesulide, ibuprofen and others.

NSAIDs are used in the following cases:

to reduce inflammation;
to eliminate swelling and reduce pain;
with an increase in body temperature;
with limited mobility of the limbs.

These remedies have a pronounced effect. The analgesic effect of NSAIDs is enhanced simultaneously with the use of physiotherapy, for example, ultrasound.

Gels for joint pain based on NSAIDs:

Diclofenac;
Final Gel;
Voltaren Emulgel;
Nise Gel.

For children, you can use Solcoseryl or Fastum Gel ointment for the joints of the legs and arms.

Dolgit cream (another name for Deep Relief) has an anti-inflammatory effect. It is made with ibuprofen.

Chondroprotectors

The active ingredients are glucosamine and chondrotin. These components are part of cartilage tissue. These drugs are effective for degenerative-dystrophic changes.

Chondroprotectors are suitable for long-term treatment. Chondroprotective anesthetic gel should be used for 6-7 months.

Chondroprotectors can eliminate painful sensations only after restoration of cartilage tissue. The most popular drugs are Chondroxide, Arthrocin and Revmalgon.

Painkillers

The products in this group help with painful sensations that arose as a result of diseases or damage to the joints. Ointment for pain in the joints of the legs and arms has not only an analgesic, but in some cases an anti-inflammatory effect.

Ointments for joint pain:

Most products are made based on salicylic acid and its derivatives.

Some painkillers are made on the basis of NSAIDs, for example, Ketonal contains propionic acid derivatives - ketoprofen. This substance has similar action diclofenac.

Ointment for leg joints Piroxicam contains the substance piroxicam. This is the main component that has an analgesic effect

Warming agents

Warming ointments are effective if the knee, ankle, shoulder or other joint is seized. The products produce the following effect:

relieve spasm;
warm and thereby reduce inflammation;
dilate blood vessels and promote the outflow of blood from the sore spot;
reduce swelling.

Warming balms and ointments should be in every athlete's first aid kit. They help prepare muscles for warm-up and training, prevent stretch marks and injuries, produce an analgesic effect, due to which they allow you to play sports with injuries.

After applying the ointment, the muscles become elastic, so the likelihood of damage to the joint is low. It also reduces muscle pain after exercise.

If you apply cream before each gym session, you can extend the longevity of the joint, since the cartilage tissue wears out less.

Most warming products are made from capsaicin. This substance is present in the Golden Star balm, Nicoflex, Kapsin and Capsicum ointments.

Apizartron, Finalgon and Viprosal ointments warm well. Apizartron contains bee venom and may cause an allergic reaction. The product should be used with caution.

Athletes can use Diclofenac ointment. It simultaneously has a warming, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. It can be applied to treat injuries. For joint pain, Arthro-Active is suitable.

Which drug should I choose?

There are three forms of release of local drugs: creams, ointments and gels. There is also a fourth form of release - sprays, but they are rarely used, in most cases in sports for short-term pain relief. What are the differences between these means?

The ointment has a stronger effect, so it is more effective. The cream has good permeability, it is absorbed faster, so it begins to act faster.

The differences between gels and ointments are that the former immediately penetrates the tissues because it has a more liquid consistency.

When choosing a remedy, follow the advice of doctors; do not self-medicate.

Be sure to pay attention to the composition. Anti-inflammatory and painkillers contain ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketoprofen and others. But when used externally, only 5-6% of the dosage of the substance is absorbed. Dimexide in creams for joint pain improves permeability, making the drugs much more effective.

Effective ointments for joints are:

Nicoflex. It has an analgesic effect. Effective for arthritis and arthrosis. It can be used by athletes during warm-up.
Chondroxide. Effective for osteoarthritis and others inflammatory diseases joints.

If anesthesia is needed immediately, then Bystrum gel is suitable. It is a powerful analgesic that produces a cooling effect. The bruised area immediately stops hurting. The gel also eliminates puffiness and relieves redness.

The effect of ointments rarely depends on their price. Sometimes expensive means are less effective than cheap ones. First of all, pay attention not to the cost, but to the active substance.

General rules for the use of topical treatments

Creams and gels for joints will relieve joint pain, but will not completely replace treatment. They must be used in combination with other means.

To achieve the desired result, you need to do more than just smear regularly. sore spot and do it right.

Apply a thin layer of ointment directly to and around the affected area.
Rub in remedy for lungs massage movements. Do not press or randomly rub over the entire surface of the joint. Applying the cream should not cause pain.
If on skin have wounds or ulcers, use local funds strictly prohibited.
After applying the ointment, you can bandage the sore spot. bandage, but wait until the product is absorbed into the skin a little.
It is not recommended to use local preparations more than three times a day.

If after applying the product there is a strong burning sensation or allergic reaction, you should immediately wipe it off and seek advice from a hospital

Warming ointments are best applied immediately before training. It is worth washing off the remaining product with hawthorn tincture or fatty cream. Alcohol or water cannot be used.

Topical joint medications are not suitable in all cases. When choosing, you need to take into account the presence of contraindications and side effects. It is important to select a drug based on the problem and only after consulting a doctor.

Ointment for joint pain is an excellent local medicine. Drugs in this form help to quickly eliminate pain, relieve swelling, remove redness and other local symptoms. Some of them help with muscle pain. Of course, they cannot completely cure the disease, but as an auxiliary treatment they are the most effective. In addition, not only ointments, but also gels with a similar therapeutic effect have been developed.

There are a large number of medications in this form that help eliminate. However, there are so many of them that without help experienced doctor It is very difficult to choose on your own the appropriate substance to treat an illness. Depending on where the joint hurts, as well as on the reasons that caused similar phenomena, the doctor can prescribe completely different medications, which are produced as ointments. For example, there are several types that are designed to treat the knee joint.

Warming

The first group includes warming medications for treatment. Most often, the formulation of such drugs includes animal and plant components. They help stimulate blood flow to the area where the joint is damaged. This creates a warming effect. Thanks to this, the pain disappears very quickly, and recovery occurs more actively. It is better not to use such ointments for pain in the first moments after receiving it, or for early stages inflammatory process. This may result in burns or an allergic reaction.

To test the medicine and the body's reaction to it, you can apply a small amount to the elbow, to a place in the back near the armpits, or to the crook of the hand. If there was no negative reaction, then the medicine can be used for other joints. If so, then capsaicin-based medications can be used. It is this that is part of red pepper and creates such a burning effect.

Finalgon;
balm “Golden Star” (also known as “Star”);
Kapsin;
Espol;
Nicoflex and others.

In addition, there are products that contain salicylic acid:

Viprosal;
Nizhvisal;
Bom Benguet;
Efkamon and so on.

Anti-inflammatory

To the second group medical supplies, which eliminate joint and muscle pain, include drugs with anti-inflammatory effects. They are the ones who fight against inflammatory processes in the joints. Such remedies can be divided into conventional classical and hormonal. The main task of such funds is to eliminate inflammatory processes in the area of damage. The compositions differ, but in any case they include an effective potent remedy which helps relieve pain.

Non-hormonal ones include:

Voltaren;
Diclofenac;
Fastum-gel.

Among non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the most effective ointments are:

Nise;
Finalgel;
indomethacin;
Ketonal.

They can be used without a doctor's permission. When the disease becomes more severe, the doctor prescribes hormone-based medications. Their effect is stronger, but they take a long time to use hormonal drugs for joint and muscle pain is prohibited.

Cooling

There is also a third type of products that have a cooling effect. This makes them well suited for pain relief. They relieve pain very quickly if the joint has been injured. Such drugs are safe for the patient, so they are allowed to be used without a doctor’s prescription. But if there are open wounds or burns, then it is prohibited to apply it to this place.

Chondroprotectors

In addition, this classification can include chondroprotectors in the form of ointments. These drugs are used not only to relieve inflammatory processes, but also to restore cartilage tissue in joints after its destruction due to injury or disease. However, the use of such drugs is permitted only after consultation with a doctor.

Contraindications to the use of ointments and gels

For different groups of drugs that are used for joint pain, there are different contraindications. However, there are similar factors, the presence of which prohibits the use of drugs for joint pain. For example, if the patient or doctor suspects that the cause of the pain was infectious or purulent phenomena, then it is better to refrain from using them.

The same applies to pathological changes in joints that are caused by inflammatory processes. In this case, you should definitely consult a doctor. If fluid accumulates in the joint cavity, you should also stop using them. Allergy to various components is another contraindication. Moreover, if general state If the patient is severe, the doctor may discontinue the use of such joint remedies. The same applies to stroke, heart attack and some other diseases. During pregnancy, you should also refrain from using it, because... In general, the effect of these drugs has not been studied in such settings. Many drugs will be dangerous for a woman during lactation. For example, those medicines that contain ketoprofen, snake and bee venom are completely prohibited.

For example, if a drug has an irritating effect, then if the patient is hypersensitive to the various components that make up the drug, you should stop using it to avoid skin damage.

Diclofenac should not be used by people who suffer from allergic rhinitis, dermatitis from aspirin or NSAIDs, as well as bronchospasms. In addition, all NSAIDs should be used very carefully for people who suffer from peptic ulcers, kidney disease, liver disease, asthma and have problems with the heart and blood vessels. For children under 6 years of age, all drugs that are classified as NSAIDs are completely prohibited.

Side effects

If the ointment is used with the wrong dosage, the patient may experience various side effects. For example, NSAIDs cause itching, burning, rash and redness on the skin. In addition, there may be nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, swelling, as well as digestive problems and increased blood pressure.

Some products based on snake oil and bee venom may cause an allergic reaction.

Drug interactions

All non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs enhance their effect due to ultraviolet radiation.

By the way, scientists and doctors believe that the molecules of NSAIDs and chondroprotectors are very large in size, so it is difficult for them to pass through the cell membrane. Scientists have calculated that medicinal substances Such funds arrive only in the amount of 5-7% of the total volume. Ultraviolet radiation is used to enhance the effect.

Some ointments may reduce the effect of diuretics, drugs that are supposed to stabilize blood pressure.

Ointments that help fight joint pain are excellent medicines that help eliminate inflammation, relieve swelling, remove redness and pain. In addition, some of them can restore cartilage tissue. In addition, ointments for muscles with a similar effect have been developed. However, all medicines in the form of ointments must be used very carefully and only after consulting a doctor to avoid side effects such treatment.