September is Arthritis Awareness Month, a reminder that millions of Canadians live with joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility every day. While there’s no single cure for arthritis, there are many ways to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. One of the most common questions we hear at the pharmacy is: “Should I use a medication-based cream or a natural option for my arthritis pain?”
Understanding Your Options for Topical Relief
When it comes to over-the-counter (OTC) creams and rubs, there are two main categories to consider:
Medication-Based Creams
These products often contain ingredients like diclofenac, menthol, or salicylates.
Popular options include Voltaren Emulgel®, which targets inflammation in joints close to the skin, and Rub A535®, which provides soothing warmth to ease sore muscles and joints. They can be especially helpful for arthritis in areas like the knees, wrists, or hands.
Natural Pain Relief Creams & Sprays
These usually feature ingredients like capsaicin (from chili peppers), arnica, eucalyptus, or menthol.
Options available at your local I.D.A. Pharmacy include Red Feather® Pain Relief Spray and Balm, Arnicare®, and Biofreeze®.
While they don’t directly reduce inflammation, they can provide effective, soothing relief and are often preferred by people seeking a more natural approach.
Over-the-Counter Oral Pain Relief
For many people, topical creams are just one piece of the arthritis toolkit. Oral OTC medications can also play an important role in easing day-to-day pain:
Acetaminophen (Tylenol®):
Often recommended for mild to moderate arthritis pain. It doesn’t reduce inflammation but can help manage pain so you can stay active. It’s important not to exceed the maximum daily dose, as overuse can affect the liver.
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – Ibuprofen (Advil®) & Naproxen (Aleve®):
These medications can reduce both pain and inflammation, making them useful during flare-ups. They may be more effective than acetaminophen for arthritis that involves swelling. They are not suitable for everyone—people with certain stomach, kidney, or heart conditions should consult a pharmacist or doctor before use.
💡 Pharmacist Tip: Some people alternate between topical and oral products to find the right balance. Always check with your pharmacist to ensure you’re choosing safe combinations and using the correct dose.
Which Option is Right for You?
The “best” choice depends on your symptoms, health history, and preferences. For some people, a medicated cream may provide enough relief, while others may benefit from oral medications during tougher days. Many find that a combination of approaches—topical, oral, and lifestyle changes—works best.
Living Well Beyond Medications
In addition to OTC products, simple lifestyle habits can go a long way in managing arthritis:
Gentle physical activity such as walking, swimming, or yoga can keep joints flexible. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints. Heat (warm baths, heating pads) or cold packs can also help with flare-ups.
We’re Here to Help
Every person’s experience with arthritis is different, which is why your pharmacist is a valuable resource. At I.D.A., we’re here to guide you through the options, whether that’s choosing between Voltaren® and Rub A535®, exploring natural choices like Red Feather®, Arnicare®, or Biofreeze®, or finding the right oral medication to match your needs.
Stop by your local I.D.A. Pharmacy this September to speak with your pharmacist about arthritis relief options that fit your lifestyle.