10 best muscle rubs

Muscle rubs, also known as topical analgesics or muscle pain relief creams, are over-the-counter (OTC) medications used to relieve minor aches and pains associated with muscles and joints. These products are designed to be applied directly to the skin over the affected area, providing localized relief.

The key ingredients in muscle rubs often include active ingredients like menthol, camphor, or methyl salicylate. These ingredients create a cooling or warming sensation on the skin, which can help distract from and alleviate muscle or joint pain. Menthol, for example, is known for its cooling effect, while camphor and methyl salicylate provide a warming sensation.

In addition to these active ingredients, muscle rubs may also contain other ingredients like essential oils, arnica, aloe vera, or capsaicin. These ingredients can further enhance the soothing or pain-relieving properties of the muscle rub.

Users typically apply muscle rubs to the affected area and gently massage the product into the skin. The massage can help improve blood circulation and enhance the effectiveness of the muscle rub in providing relief.

It's important to follow the instructions and recommended usage guidelines provided on the product packaging. While muscle rubs can offer temporary relief from muscle and joint pain, they are not a cure for underlying medical conditions. If you have persistent or severe pain, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best muscle rubs on the market
  

Muscle Rub Cream 3oz Large Tube (Compare to Bengay) - 3 Tubes (3)

Perrigo

Based on 739 reviews Check latest price

Product description

3 tubes Total

  • Deep Penetrating Pain Relief
  • Fast Relief from Minor Arthritis, Backache, Muscle and Joint Pain
  • Greaseless

User questions & answers

Question: I’m trying to add this product to my subscribe and save. It won’t let me
Answer: It’s a poor product. Don’t buy it!
Question: Is it 9 (nine) oz total
Answer: Yes because it's 3 oz in one and it works very fast
Question: what are the ingredients? breakdown of camphor, menthol and methyl salicylate? thanks
Answer: Menthol 10% and Methyl Salcytate 15% - active ingredients. Citric Acid, Glycerol monosterate, lanolin, proplparaben, purified water, stearic acid, trolmine - inactive ingredients.
Question: So this doesn't have the 4% Camphor
Answer: The active ingredients do not state that it has Camphor. You might want to call Perrigo at their 800 number and they should be able to tell you what is in the ingredients. I can tell you this - it is a good product for muscle ache and arthritis. I play tennis and use it on my knee when it starts to hurt me.

Tiger Balm Pain Relieving Red Extra Strength, 18g – Relief for Sore Muscles – Extra Strength Sports Rub – Tiger Balm Extra Strength – Tiger Balm Ointment

Tiger Balm

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price
  • POWERFUL RELIEF. TIGER BALM Pain Relieving Red Extra Strength is formulated to provide powerful relief for minor aches in the muscles and joints.
  • SOOTHES SORENESS. For over 100 years, TIGER BALM Pain Relieving ointments have been used to soothe discomfort associated with overexertion, backaches, arthritis, strains, and sprains.
  • INGREDIENTS. This extra strength sports rub is made with camphor (11%), menthol (10%), cajuput oil, cassia oil, clove oil, dementholized mint oil, and paraffin petrolatum.
  • FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Do not apply to open wounds or damaged skin. Do not bandage or use a heating pad with this ointment.
  • HOW TO USE. TIGER BALM Pain Relieving Red Extra Strength can be rubbed onto the affected area 3–4 times per day.

User questions & answers

Question: how many jars come in this pack
Answer: Small dogs and and all small animals like cats puppies hamsters...
Question: What is 2 sets of .0.63. Is that 2 jars that equal .63 or 2-.63 jars
Answer: Hi friend, There is no seperate usb charging cable for sell, but we can send you one, please contact us with your order detail via amazon email or at [email protected]. We look forward to hear from you. Thanks.
Question: if i apply on my elbow, and my dog licks my elbow, or places where i was leaning on, will it affect my dog
Answer: Not the correct place for this question
Question: can i use this under nose to cancel out bad odors
Answer: This one is it! It is great. Safe. Fast. Quiet. And inexpensive.

Product features

Provide Targeted Relief to Sore Muscles

Dedicated to delivering health and well-being through proven oriental knowledge, Tiger Balm has developed a renowned ointment that has been customized to accommodate specific needs. Tried, tested, and trusted for over 100 years, in almost 100 countries, Tiger Balm’s world prominent ointment is proven to “work where it hurts.”

Active Ingredient: Camphor

A common topical analgesic, Camphor helps provide relief for sore muscles and joints—making it an important component of Tiger Balm products.

Active Ingredient: Menthol

Providing a cooling sensation to treatment areas, Menthol may help to relieve minor muscle or joint discomfort. Tiger Balm products contain Menthol, which can provide soothing relief.

Inactive Ingredients

Tiger Balm is also formulated with the following ingredients to help provide comfort from aches: cajuput oil, cassia oil, clove oil, dementholized mint oil, and paraffin petrolatum. The cassia oil, used in the Tiger Balm Extra Strength, gives it a signature red-brown color

Ideal for Pre- & Post-Workout

Tiger Balm’s time-tested blend of herbal ingredients is trusted by professional athletes and trainers around the world for fast and effective relief without the pills. No matter your activity or skill level, Tiger Balm has a product to soothe your strains and aches and help keep you at the top of your game. It can be used during warm up before exercise or to ease soreness after working out, making it the perfect exercise companion for your pre- and post-workout recovery or whenever you need it most.

Big Relief in One Tiny Jar

Unlike watered-down topical ointments that come in the big tubes and bottles, only Tiger Balm has a time-tested blend of herbal ingredients concentrated to provide as much value as topical relief. Just remember—a little bit goes a long way!

Muscle Rub - 3 Tube Pack - 1.5oz Tube

Natureplex

Based on 274 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Use for the temporary relief of the minor aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with: - simple backache - arthritis - strains - bruises - sprains

  • Pack of 3 MuscleRub Ultra Strength Formula, 1.5 oz Tubes
  • Fast penetrating, long-lasting nonprescription topical analgesic cream
  • Sold as a value bundle of single pack retail units

User questions & answers

Question: why are they so high priced they're a Dollar each at the tree
Answer: I don't know why they are priced so high. They don't work as well as some other things I've used., The other things are a lot less money also.
Question: What is the expiration date
Answer: I don't know, as I use it frequently but I have had some tubes up to 6 months. Love this stuff, works better than Ben Gay.
Question: What are the active ingredients
Answer: Menthol 1% Methyl salicylate 15%

Unkers Therapeutic Rub for Joint Pain, Sore Muscles, Burn Cream, or Calm Your Cough 13.5 ounces

Unker's

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Unkers Therapeutic Salve for Joint Pain, Sore Muscles, Burn Cream, or Calm Your Cough 13.5 ounces

  • Unkers medicated SALVE is very effective pain relief cream. HIGH QUALITY pure essentials oils (camphor oil, eucalyptus, menthol crystals and more) are used to formulate this Unkers salve.
  • Unkers deep penetrating pain relief is PETROLEUM BASED. First aid salve for pain relief is made in USA.
  • MULTI-PURPOSE salve for pain can be used for joint & muscle soreness, skin irritation, cough, minor burns, muscle sprains, sore throat, etc.

User questions & answers

Question: I have Unker’s medicated salve and use it on bug bites. It is great.. Is this the same stuff
Answer: yes same stuff, and you are right, it is great. I use it for my achy bones and muscles, but have used it on cuts and burns. Love it.
Question: Will Unkers help for dry cracked fingertips? A Mantle is no longer available
Answer: I have been using Unkers for years. I find that after I run into hands and fingers put on white cotton gloves. Usually after 1 night see a big difference. Also like the fact that it takes the pain away. I hope this helps you.
Question: Ours arrived tied in a plastic bag. The lid was off and at 95 degrees yesterday, all the salve is melted away. Can you send a new bottle? I have pict
Answer: You need to contact the seller. I do not sell Unkers.
Question: Is there a difference between the blue container and the green container
Answer: Not sure I know what you mean by "blue container"? When I bought this recently it was not the same formula I bought about 15 years ago at a local Farmer's Market (that came in a blue and white jar). Through much back and forth with email I found out 2 companies were making Unker's rub and a law suit decided who could use the name. I found out that the formula I bought years ago is now called Amish Origins and I like that formula better as it has more menthol in it. This with the green cover works pretty good. I will say they seem to be a very good company with great customer service. They offered to refund my money if I send it back. I have not decided to do that yet.

NatraBio The Arnica Rub | 8% Arnica | Homeopathic Pain Formula for Relief from Stiffness, Injuries, Muscle Pain, Back Pain, Bruises & Sprains | 4 oz | 2 pk

Natra-Bio

Based on 469 reviews Check latest price
  • Alleviate: Homeopathic cream may help provide temporary relief from overexertion or minor injuries
  • Fast Acting Relief: Massage The Arnica Rub onto areas w/ stiffness, muscle pain, sprains or bruises
  • Super Smooth: Non-greasy formula w/ 8% arnica & supporting ingredients leaves skin feeling smooth
  • Only the Best: Fast-absorbing cream does not contain parabens, petroleum, fragrances and dyes
  • Customers Say: “Finally! A topical cream that works!”

User questions & answers

Question: is this really a2 pack
Answer: I do not know if this image is a two pack.The rub does con in a pack of two.Check the ad.
Question: How many tube of the rub do you get for
Answer: According to the ad I see on my screen it says it's a "2 pack with 4 ounces in each tube"....
Question: What is the complete list of ingredients? i am allergic to lavender and rosemary and mit and would like to make sure that those are not present in thi
Answer: Lavender also irritates my skin but not this product. It has a soothing and healing effect. What i'm concerned about is this warning I found on another website.:CALIFORNIA RESIDENTS: Proposition 65 Warning WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. California requires the following notice on beauty and skin care products that contain progesterone: This product contains progesterone, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer. Consult with your physician before using this product. No mention of which ingredient it is though. https://jet.com/product/Natra-Bio-The-Rub-Arnica-Cream-4-Oz/57e66fc9aa5845c3877436477212c67e
Question: Does it smell
Answer: Yes it smells funky. It seems to be working though so I keep putting it on. I also put on essential oil to mask the smell.

Product features

Rub-on Relief

The Arnica Rub is a homeopathic cream formulated to help relieve and soothe pain from overexertion or minor injuries.

Fast-Acting

Simply massage the arnica cream onto the affected area for relief of stiffness, injuries, muscle pain, back pain, bruises, and sprains.

Feel-Good Rub

While your body will love the relief, your mind can rest easy knowing our non-greasy formula is free of parabens, fragrances, parabens, and dyes.

No More Guesswork

The Arnica Rub is part of the NatraBio line of powerful homeopathic products with multiple active ingredients to hit a broad range of symptoms.

Tiger Balm Active Muscle Rub, 2 oz. – Muscle Rub for Relief – Tiger Balm – Analgesic Cream – Arthritis Rub – Non-Greasy Muscle Rub Cream – Pre-Workout Warm Up

Tiger Balm

Based on 584 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Tiger Balm Balm Muscle Rub, 2 oz

  • ANALGESIC CREAM. Tiger Balm Active Muscle Rub is a high-quality analgesic cream that is formulated to support your active lifestyle.
  • TEMPORARY RELIEF. Whether you have a backache, arthritis, strains, or sprains, Tiger Balm Active Muscle Rub can provide cooling, temporary relief where you need it most.
  • NON-GREASY FORMULA. This muscle rub is easy to apply, non-greasy, and does not stain. It can be used as a pre-sport warm-up, after exercise, or to soothe sore muscles and joints.
  • EASY TO USE. Tiger Balm Active Muscle Rub is formulated with topical analgesics including methyl salicylate 15%, menthol 5%, and camphor 3%. For adults and children over 12 years of age, rub well on the affected area. Repeat 3–4 times daily.
  • WARNINGS. This product is for external use only. It should only be used as directed. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Do not apply to wounds or damaged, irritated skin.

Ebanel Pain Relief Cream, 2.28 Oz Arnica Menthol Arthritis Pain Relief Muscle Rub with MSM, Emu Oil, Hemp Oil, Anti Inflammatory Cream with Camphor, Boswellia for Back Pain, Neck Shoulder Joint Pain

Ebanel Laboratories, Inc.

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • MAXIMUM STRENGTH, IMMEDIATE & LONG-LASTING PAIN RELIEF CREAM - Our pain relief arnica cream is an OTC medication formulated with maximum Arnica, MSM, Menthol & Camphor to naturally relieve lower back pain, arthritis pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, joint pain, sore muscle pain, tennis elbow, knee pain, hip pain, nerve pain, chronic pain, strains, sprains, stiffness and bruises
  • REDUCES INFLAMMATION & SWELLING, SOOTHES & HEALS SKIN - Our anti inflammatory cream is enriched with Emu Oil, MSM, Aloe, Boswellia, Tea Tree Oil, Lavender, Sunflower Seed Oil, Centella and Vitamin B6 to reduce the inflammation of nerves, muscles, tendons and ligaments
  • IMPROVES MOBILITY & REDUCES STIFFNESS - Unique cooling Menthol OTC formula enhanced with Arnica and Emu oil, clinically proven to deliver fast-acting, long-lasting and deep-penetrating joint & muscle pain relief, soothe and heal irritated skin
  • INTENSIVE COOLING & HEALING THERAPY WITH LIGHT REFRESHING MINTY SCENT - Great for back pain relief, arthritis pain relief, neck shoulder pain relief, joint pain relief, muscle pain relief. Our products never tested on animals - Cruelty-Free, cGMP Certified, Hypoallergenic, Paraben-Free, Sulfate-Free
  • MADE IN USA! - Never tested on animals - cruelty-free, cGMP Certified, hypoallergenic, paraben-free, sulfate-free. Apply liberally as needed, continue to massage in thoroughly for 1-2 minutes. For best results, apply 2-3 times daily for 2 weeks

Product features

How It Works
Cooling

Menthol

Dull Minor Muscle Aches & Joint Pains caused by:

  • Arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Tendinitis
  • Carpal tunnel
  • Degenerative disc disease (DDD)

Warmth

Camphor

Relax Sore & Strained Muscles and Increase Blood Flow & Circulation for:

  • Back & Hips
  • Neck & Shoulders
  • Knees & Elbows
  • Feet & Ankles
  • Hands & Wrists

Relief

Arnica, Emu Oil & Eucalyptus Oil

Get relief from the most common root causes of pain including:

  • Inflammation
  • Swelling

FSA & HSA Eligible
Massage for Increased Relief

Penetrex Recovery Cream, 2 Oz. – Intensive Concentrate for Soothing Muscle Relief & Recovery – Whole-Body Formulation with Arnica, Vitamin B6 & MSM (DMSO2) for Your Back, Neck, Knee, Hand, Shoulder, Foot

Biomax Health Products, Inc.

Based on 47 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Remarkably, Penetrex does not simply provide cooling and warming ingredients found in less-effective, outdated formulations. Instead, Penetrex delivers soothing results by targeting the source. By utilizing a pure-grade penetration enhancer, a breakthrough delivery-system carries clinically studied ingredients deep into affected areas. The resulting relief is quick, strong & long-lasting! If you are managing discomfort from everyday activity of muscles, nerves, ligaments, or tendons then you must discover this unique formulation and the “the best kept secret”!

  • Apply Penetrex to your Back, Neck, Knee, Hand, Foot, and more. Penetrex is recommended for use on its own and is also appropriate for use in conjunction with complementary therapies such as heating pads, ice packs, massagers, and supplements.
  • Utilizing a revolutionary delivery system, Penetrex delivers clinically evaluated ingredients including Arnica, Glucosamine, MSM (DMSO2), Choline, Boswellia Serrata & Vitamin B6 deep into the tissue to soothe affected areas.
  • Your Penetrex purchase is backed by our happiness support. Try our products without worry because we’re confident that you will see results and be thrilled with your purchase.
  • Vanishing scent, non-greasy, non-staining, paraben-free, and never tested on animals.
  • Remarkably, Penetrex does not simply provide cooling and warming ingredients found in less-effective, outdated formulations. Instead, Penetrex delivers targeted soothing benefits deep into the tissue.

User questions & answers

Question: Does it work for peripheral neuropathy (feet and hands
Answer: Yes. It does. I had a car accident 2 years ago and have been suffered the nerve damages since. After 20 some docrors and numerous types of prescribed medicines, I found Penetrex works the best for me. I carry it in my purse with me wherever I go. Sometimes the pain gets wild, I apply it, even on my face, every 3 hours so I wont be insane. ( I would put it inside of my nails if I can.) Nerve pain is painful and very frustrated that I know nothing about it before my accident. Doctors had told me it will not kill me but will make my life miserable. I am very glad that Penetrex exits so I dont have to spent $500 a month for one pill that disagree with my stomach and have the same result. Hope it help. Best wishes.
Question: is this good on knees
Answer: +1 here. This worked great for me after flaring up my ACL and medial meniscus tears. I had quite significant effusion in the knee only had about 20 degrees of flexion. I bought the product purely based on reviews not expecting much at all. Anyway two days of using this (after four weeks of little improvement) I had recovered another 20 degrees of ROM in the knee and by day 4 I had full ROM and substantially lower pain. I suspect I will need another arthroscopy to clear out the knee but I can't be happier with the product. Oh, and I'm an occupational therapist so have some idea about injury rehab. Hope it works for you.
Question: Has anyone used this for Arthritic hand/finger joint pain? Did it give any relief
Answer: Yes and I can’t rate is high enough!! My hands and fingers are in bad Osteoporosis arthritic pain. I rub this in both hands and wait a few minutes. I can feel the pain leaving! Nothing worked before! I had my spinal surgery 3 years ago. Now I get the lower back pain when I walk too much. I rubbed this on and yes it helped take the pain away! Great medication!
Question: Why don't you just list the ingredients as a matter of course? We get the ad-speak but too little info
Answer: The ingredients are clearly listed, and should be in order of proportion in the product. Why can’t everyone see them? It is a bit overwhelming. I think the first six or eight are likely most effective; some of the others ((MSM, certainly DMSO in any form) may be part of what helps it penetrate the skin effectively. Then again, this is a “shotgun” mixture meant to help a number of problems. I am a university life sciences professor, have worked in quality control in the pharmaceutical industry, and think many are slamming this out of ignorance. Does it work? It helps som e inflammatory skin conditions I have that little else helps. Sure it is pricey -less than the cost of two good mixed drinks at a decent bar! So eat spaghetti at home one night - budget issue solved. Be careful about tossing the word “scam” around. Unless you have proof, of course. (We are waiting.). Otherwise I have no reason to trust your word at all, versus the many, many reviews and my own experience. I doubted it, then tried it out of desperation. Therelief was just great!

Ultra Strength Bengay Topical Pain Relief Cream, Non-Greasy Topical Analgesic for Minor Arthritis, Muscle, Joint, and Back Pain, Camphor, Menthol & Methyl Salicylate, 4 oz

Bengay

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

For strong relief from aches and pains, use Ultra Strength Bengay Topical Pain Relief Cream. With three pain-relieving ingredients, more than any other Bengay product, this non-greasy topical cream provides pain relief from minor arthritis, backache, muscle, and joint pain. Cream is formulated with camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate. Massage the topical pain relieving analgesic into skin for deep, penetrating pain relief. This non-greasy cream comes in a tube for convenient application. Bengay is a physician-recommended OTC topical analgesic.

bu

  • 4-ounce tube of non-greasy Bengay Ultra Strength Topical Pain Relief Cream to ease backaches, minor arthritis, muscle, and joint pain
  • Topical analgesic contains three pain-relieving ingredients—camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate, for ultra-strong relief in a non-greasy cream.
  • Pain relief cream penetrates deeply for back and arthritis pain relief and soothing of other minor aches, sprains and bruises
  • Bengay is a physician-recommended OTC topical analgesic. Contains more pain-relieving ingredients than any other Bengay product
  • Topical pain relief analgesic comes in a convenient tube for portable & on-the-go relief from aches, minor arthritis, joint, and back pain

User questions & answers

Question: what is bengay shelf life ? Thanks
Answer: JUNE/2017
Question: possible to send to Italy? shipping cost? thank you
Answer: My listing is also for international. I think you need to try to click to purchase it will show the shipping charge it call Amazom to find out
Question: Is this like the old BenGay that moms used to rub on our chests when we had a cold and cough? It smelled so good
Answer: It very well could be. My Mom used Bengay on me and my brothers. She would rub it on our chest. I loved the wintergreen scent. And it did give us temporary relief through the night.
Question: Does this feel hot after it is rubbed into the skin? That is what I want---nothing seems to give heat relief like it used to. Thanks
Answer: I know this is two years later, but if you're looking for heat you need to get Capsaicin. Hottest stuff on the market. Made from cayenne pepper extract.

Product features

Ultra Strength BENGAY Cream

Containing three pain-relieving ingredients - more than any other BENGAY product - this cream provides relief from minor arthritis, backache, muscle, and joint pain. Massage onto skin for deep, penetrating pain relief.

Benefits of BENGAY:

Muscle RUB Cream ***C-P Size: 3 OZ

PERRIGO PHARMACEUTICALS Company

Based on 99 reviews Check latest price

Product description

MUSCLE RUB CREAM ***C-P Size: 3 OZ

  • Grease less penetrating and warming pain relief for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains of muscles.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this product really warming, vs Biofreeze and Flexall? In winter the latter are too cold for me
Answer: yes it is and I thought it was great
Question: Does this product make in Bronx, New York
Answer: Hi! This product is manufactured by Perrigo, Allegan, MI 49010. My friend was in the hospital in my area & asked for Ben Gay & they didn't have it but gave her this product and she said it is much better. I have used it with great success on muscle pain in various areas. I think you will be satisfied with this product. It does have menthol in it but the odor doesn't last long & I don't find it offensive. Glad to answer your question. Nancy
Question: Seller: wherei is perrigo arthritis cream manufactured? in usa
Answer: USA
Question: Is this the same product as Mentholatum Pain Relief muscle rub cream? The package looks the same, but like a generic version
Answer: All i know is that 3 years ago i had to have a prescription for it. My doctor found it here on line and said it was the same. It is a wonder muscle rub. It is the best ever

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