What to grab when your arthritis flares up

If you’ve ever dealt with arthritis pain, you know that sometimes you just need a little relief.

One of the most popular products on the market is Bengay, which can sometimes temporarily ease arthritis pain. Bengay works topically and comes as a patch, gel, or cream. While you may see it under another name, Bengay works similarly to some of its counterparts. The active ingredient is menthol, so you’ll probably feel a cooling sensation first, followed up by a warm sensation on your skin. The product temporarily numbs your skin, which can provide some relief from muscle pain or even minor arthritis. The menthol also helps improve skin blood flow. After about an hour, you may notice it starts wearing off.

If you’re looking for an alternative to Bengay, why not try something that contains capsaicin

After all, that’s the compound found in hot chili peppers that naturally makes them hot. Peppers with the highest levels of capsaicin rank highest on the Scoville Scale. While many people think peppers are just for eating, some capsaicin products can potentially help with things like arthritis pain. When you use a product with capsaicin in it, you’ll probably experience a burning, tingling sensation. It helps block the pain signals to your nerves. Unless you’re using the product on your hands, wash your hands thoroughly right away to remove all the capsaicin.

There are other options too

Including topical NSAID gels and creams, over-the-counter salicylates, or Lidocaine, which also numbs your skin and blocks pain signals. Of course, before you use anything, make sure you stay in touch with your doctor and read all the ingredients and safety precautions. To get relief, use any product as directed.