If you’ve ever stood in a pharmacy aisle feeling totally overwhelmed by the rows of creams, gels, and sprays, you aren’t alone. Back pain is incredibly common in the UK, with 50 million working days lost every year to the condition.
Many of my patients at our Walthamstow clinic ask the same question: “Do these muscle rubs actually work, or are they just a waste of money?”
In my latest video, I dive into the truth about topical treatments and how you can best use them to manage your recovery.
The Truth About Muscle Rubs
The reality is that using a muscle rub is a really individual choice. What works wonders for one person might do very little for another. However, research does give us some clues:
• Capsaicin Creams: These are often the most effective for the majority of people. They work by increasing blood flow to the area where they are applied, making it feel warmer. This sensation is quite soothing and acts as a brilliant distraction from the discomfort.
• NSAID Gels: Some people prefer medicated rubs containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, such as Diclofenac.
Short-Term Comfort vs. Long-Term Recovery
It is important to remember that while these gels and rubs can help you feel more comfortable and keep you mobile, they don’t generally have a long-term impact on your actual recovery.
I don’t recommend one specific brand; instead, I suggest using whichever feels best for you. The goal is to use them as a tool to help you stay active while your body heals.
The Winning Formula for Back Pain
Muscle rubs work best when they are part of a broader plan. I recommend using them alongside:
• Gentle movement and exercise.
• Sufficient rest.
• Manual therapy, such as osteopathy, to identify and manage the underlying cause of the pain.
• Consulting your GP if you feel you need prescription-strength pain relief, or further investigation.
Find Relief in Walthamstow
If you are struggling with back pain, sciatica, or stiffness and aren’t sure what to do next, come and see us. At Sarah Oliver & Associates, based at Ashlins Natural Health on Hoe Street, we specialise in helping you move freely again.
Our team—Antonieta, Nadia, and myself—uses a combination of osteopathy, exercise, and ergonomic advice to support your body’s natural healing process and take away the uncertainty of back pain.
Book your appointment online today, and let’s put together a plan to get you feeling better
I'm an Osteopath in Walthamstow, East London E17.