Can Topical Rubs Relieve Soreness?
Topical rubs are fast becoming the buzz products in alleviating acute and chronic pains. When your muscles ache, it might be the all-in-one solution you need. This article highlights the importance of using topical rubs and the active ingredients to look out for. Let’s get right to it!
Contents
What are topical rubs?
Topical rubs are over-the-counter analgesics that can relieve all kinds of pain. They are used mainly by athletes or after a strenuous activity to reduce aches around muscles and joints. Studies show that you can also use them for arthritis.
Their mode of operation is simple. After applying to the skin causes you to feel a cool then warm sensation. It primarily distracts you from pains in the affected areas.
Do Muscle Rubs work?
Yes, muscle rubs work, and they are highly effective. A good product offers temporary pain relief while seeping into the skin to reduce inflammation caused by the injury. They work best for acute pains but may not be effective in totally treating chronic pains.
Side effects of topical rubs 
Topical rubs containing hemp cream contain little or no side effects. Here are the common side effects of applying topical rubs to the skin:
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Rare cases such as allergies may occur.
- Nausea,
- Vomiting
- Swelling, etc.
If you experience these side effects, contact your physician immediately.
What are the best Topical Rubs for sore muscles? 
Hemp cream
Hemp cream has multidimensional benefits. But one of the commonest is that it relieves pain. It is obtained from hemp plants, which contain 0 THC, a psychoactive substance that causes highness. Many people with chronic pain from arthritis, backpack, etc., can use this cream as an antidote.
Hemp body cream contains antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, which is excellent in relieving soreness. Sometimes, it is blended with other essential oils such as lemongrass to increase its potency.
The CB1 and CB2 receptors are responsible for regulating pain in the brain. Whenever you feel cold or aches, they help to lessen the sensations. Hemp body cream works by bypassing these receptors and interacting with the neurotransmitter (in-between the cannabinoid receptors) that impedes pain.
It operates through chemical agents Anandamide and 2-AG. It is beneficial because it shows that CBD topical can reduce pain without the stimulating effects of THC! Also, you don’t have to worry about getting addicted, as hemp cream topical is THC-free.
Arnica
Arnica is also available as a very dilute, a homeopathic product that can be taken by mouth. It can also be repurposed into a gel to treat chronic pains and muscle sores. It has active chemicals which alleviate Swelling and double as antibiotics.
In some cases, Arnica is applied to ease pain associated with osteoarthritis, which causes joints to stiffen. Another study reveals that it is quite similar to the nonsteroidal drug ibuprofen.
It would help if you did not ingest arnica herb through the mouth. It can become poisonous and cause other severe medical conditions. Ensure you speak with your health care provider before using any topical cream containing Arnica.
Menthol
It is another active ingredient used in topical rubs to relieve soreness. When applied, it causes a cooling sensation which helps to reduce the sore pain.
Singularly, it doesn’t cure any inflammation. But its potency can be enhanced when paired with other anti-inflammatory ingredients. Before applying to the skin, ensure you wear hand gloves to prevent it from accidentally contacting your eyes.
Capsaicin
This compound is found in pepper, which accounts for its spicy feel when applied to the skin. It works by interacting with the neurotransmitter that conveys pain receptors to the brain. Through this, it reduces the perception of pain.
Capsaicin rubs usually contain 0.025% – 0.075of the substance. It is because it is highly potent in small doses. You can use it to relieve acute pains from backache, muscle sprains, cramps, and even arthritis.
Lidocaine
Lidocaine is a common anesthetic used in topical rubs to reduce soreness. It causes numbness or loss of feeling when applied. It is why it is used to relieve pains. It works by blocking the transmission of pain signals.
It can cause serious medical problems in the throat and mouth when ingested. Ensure you contact your physical healthcare provider before using.
Mode of application of Topical rubs
Before applying topical rubs on the skin, ensure you’ve affirmed your healthcare provider’s best product for your condition. Read the manufacturer’s manual instructions, if any, and the warnings indicated.
Next, scoop a finger-full of the topical rub and apply directly to the affected area. Ensure you follow the instructions on the manual and don’t use more than is recommended. Lastly, wash your hands and keep the rub in a safe place.
Topical rubs like hemp body cream have minor side effects and are safer than their counterparts. It has various benefits and directly impedes the pain or itch!
