Topical pain relievers include creams, sprays, liquids, patches and gels that can be applied to the skin at the site of pain. They avoid some of the side effects of oral medications, which affect the body’s whole system. Cleveland rheumatologist Chad Deal, MD, says topical pain relievers are a good choice for pain relief on joints that are close to the skin. This includes the hands, wrist, elbows and ankles. They may be worth trying on other joints as well.
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