While some customers may automatically reach for oral analgesics to treat muscle or joint pain, it's worth pointing out the topical treatments available and their benefits. Some people may find that rubbing a cream or gel onto a sore muscle is effective at relieving pain. Alternatively, spray formulations can be useful for hard to reach areas. Whatever option they choose, advise customers to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and apply the product as directed. Topical products should not be applied to broken or infected skin, or near the eyes, mouth or mucous membranes. Nor should they be applied alongside heat pads or underneath tight bandages. Remind customers to wash their hands thoroughly after using these products, too.

Topical NSAIDs

Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac can help to relieve pain and reduce the redness and swelling caused by inflammation. Unlike oral NSAIDs, topical products don't carry the same potential side effects (e.g. stomach irritation) and there is growing evidence of their effectiveness in treating chronic conditions like OA. In fact, NICE guidelines state that oral paracetamol and/or topical NSAIDs should be considered before oral NSAIDs for OA. However, such products may not be suitable for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or people with aspirin-sensitive asthma.

Ibuprofen is the most common OTC topical NSAID and is available in gel (e.g. Care Ibuprofen Gel) or spray formulations (e.g. Ibuleve Speed Relief Spray). Diclofenac is available in topical products including Voltarol Emulgel P and Voltarol Pain-eze Emulgel. Movelat Relief Cream is a mild to moderate anti-inflammatory and analgesic topical preparation that contains salicylic acid along with mucopolysaccharide polysulphate.

Rubefacients and counter-irritants

Rubefacients and counter-irritants produce a warm feeling in the affected area, which some people find soothing. Common examples found in OTC products include salicylates and nicotinates along with menthol, camphor, eucalyptus and turpentine oil. There are various OTC brands available, including Algesal and Deep Heat. Such products are available in cream or spray formulations.

Capsaicin occurs naturally in cayenne pepper and warms the skin when applied to sore muscles and joints. OTC products containing capsaicin include Radian B Muscle Rub and Ralgex Cream. Such products should not be applied to broken or inflamed skin and users should avoid contact with eyes, lips and other sensitive areas. Hands should be washed thoroughly after application and use should be discontinued if persistent skin irritation develops.

Complementary treatments

Arnica Ointment is a popular OTC treatment, particularly for bruises and swelling following injury. Products include Weleda Arnica Ointment and Nelson's Arnicare range. Tiger Balm is another complementary treatment option to soothe sore and aching muscles. It is suitable for adults and children from two years of age.