Struggle with back pain? You’re not alone—back pain affects a whopping 65% of Americans, making it one of the leading causes of discomfort, disability, and lost work days. Fortunately, back pain creams can be a great solution thanks to their convenience, affordability, and efficacy.
Of course, not all back pain cream are created equal–so which are the best? Keep reading for our roundup of the best back pain creams, ointments, and gels on the market to finally find relief for your muscle pain.
How Do Back Pain Relief Creams and Ointments Work?
Back pain relief creams soothe sore muscles because of certain ingredients. While no ointment is exactly the same, many contain ingredients that reduce inflammation, block nerve signals that communicate pain, and soothe muscles with warming and cooling sensations.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common ingredients and how they work:
- Camphor: An anti-inflammatory that naturally occurs in the wood of a laurel tree that provides a warming and cooling sensation to bring pain relief.
- Menthol: Offers a cooling sensation after stimulating and desensitizing your body’s nociceptors.
- Capsaicin: Deteriorates nerve cells that send pain messages to your brain. The sensation? A mix of burning and warmth.
- Salicylates: Bioactive organic compounds that act as anti-inflammatories; common ingredients in Aspirin.
We’ll cover these ingredients in greater detail, along with a few others, later on in this article, but these are the main ones.
How to Choose the Best Back Pain Cream
Choosing the best back pain cream depends on the type of pain, active ingredients, and how your body responds to topical treatments. While many creams promise fast relief, the most effective option is the one that matches your specific back pain needs.
If you’re dealing with muscle strain or tightness, look for creams containing menthol or camphor, which create cooling and warming sensations that relax muscles and improve circulation. For chronic or nerve-related back pain, ingredients like lidocaine or capsaicin can help block pain signals and provide longer-lasting relief.
Those with arthritis or inflammation-related back pain may benefit from creams containing NSAIDs, salicylates, or natural anti-inflammatories like arnica or Boswellia. If you have sensitive skin, fragrance-free or plant-based formulas are often better tolerated.
The best back pain relief cream isn’t about strength alone. It’s about choosing a formula that works with your pain type, lifestyle, and skin sensitivity.
Best Back Pain Relief Creams by Pain Type
Not all back pain is the same, and the best back pain cream for you depends on what’s causing your discomfort. Here’s how different formulas match common back pain conditions:
Best Back Pain Cream for Muscle Strain and Tightness
Muscle-related back pain responds best to creams with menthol and camphor, which stimulate blood flow and relax tense muscles. These formulas are ideal for post-workout soreness, physical labor, or stiffness from sitting too long.
Best Back Pain Relief Cream for Chronic Back Pain
For ongoing or recurring back pain, look for creams that combine pain-blocking ingredients with anti-inflammatory compounds. Lidocaine, capsaicin, and cannabinoid-infused formulas are commonly used for long-term pain management.
Best Cream for Arthritis-Related Back Pain
Back pain caused by arthritis or joint inflammation often benefits from NSAID-based creams or natural anti-inflammatories like arnica and Boswellia. These ingredients help reduce swelling and stiffness over time.
Best Back Pain Cream for Nerve or Sciatic Pain
Sharp, burning, or radiating back pain may respond best to lidocaine-based creams, which numb aggravated nerves and provide targeted relief.
Best Creams for Back Pain and Lower Back Pain
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by back pain cream options at the drugstore, keep reading. We’ve rounded up the best creams for back pain (including lower back pain) and covered active ingredients, general quality, customer sentiment, and more.
From warming rubs to cooling gels, these ointments offer unique mechanisms and benefits to manage pain for a wide range of back pain issues.
Let’s dive in:
1. Dragon Pain Relieving Lotion
Dragon Strength Pain Relieving Lotion combines aloe, shea butter, and natural oils for a smooth glide on the skin. It’s infused with FDA-registered camphor and menthol for cooling, reducing irritation, and pain relief. It also contains cannabinoids for additional wellness benefits. It’s a great option for anyone with sore muscles and stiff joints.
Plus, its seamless nano-emulsification ensures maximum absorption for quick, effective ease of tension and inflammation. But the real magic happens with the synergy between each plant ingredient’s compounds—together, they produce a harmonious and therapeutic effect that truly maximizes relief as a unit rather than using the ingredients alone.
Pros:
- Hydrates and restores skin with aloe, shea butter, and natural oils
- Relieves sore muscles, backaches, and joint stiffness
- Features a therapeutic blend for comprehensive relief at an affordable price
- Enhanced bioavailability for quick and effective absorption
Cons:
- CBD content may not be legal in all states; check local laws before purchasing
- May require age verification due to CBD inclusion
Shop now for a proven solution to back pain on your path to holistic wellness.
2. Dragon Pain Relieving Balm
Perfect for those leading an active lifestyle, Dragon Pain Relieving Balm is a daily back cream that features a convenient jar perfect for the medicine cabinet. It’s formulated with a unique blend of camphor and menthol as active ingredients but also includes clove oil, cocoa butter, coconut oil, and hemp extract for a pleasant aroma and softness.
The application is smooth and simple, with its non-greasy texture. And don’t forget about the CBD isolate for additional relaxation.
Pros:
- Offers quick relief for everyday aches and pains
- Nano-emulsification for enhanced absorption
- Affordable, with the benefits of CBD Isolate
Cons:
- CBD content may not be legal in all states; check local laws before purchasing
- May require age verification due to CBD inclusion
3. Bengay Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Cream
Bengay Ultra Strength Pain Relieving Cream offers pain relief for minor arthritis, backache, muscle, and joint pain. This non-greasy cream is the strongest of the Bengay products, featuring a potent combination of three active ingredients: menthol, camphor, and methyl salicylate.
It’s designed to offer relief by blocking pain sensations, stimulating thermoreceptors in the skin for a cooling effect, and reducing inflammation.
Pros:
- Contains three pain-relieving ingredients
- Offers relief from arthritis, backaches, strains, bruises, and sprains
- Non-greasy cream
Cons:
- Strong scent could linger after application and be overpowering to some
- The multiple active ingredients can irritate sensitive skin
4. Penetrex Joint and Muscle Therapy Cream
Penetrex Joint and Muscle Therapy Cream is a bit on the pricey side at $49.00 for a four-ounce bottle. Still, it features a unique formula combining arnica (similar effect as Ibuprofen), vitamin B6, MSM, choline, and the natural Indian plant Boswellia Serrata, which acts as a natural inflammatory.
If you’re sensitive to strong cooling and warming sensations, you might favor this cream’s neutral effect that focuses on soothing (and nothing more).
Pros:
- Natural ingredients
- Non-sticky, without unwanted residue or scent
- Complements other therapies like heat pads and icing well
Cons:
- Expensive price point
5. Tiger Balm Pain Relieving Ultra Strength Ointment
Tiger Balm Pain Relieving Ultra Strength Ointment is a concentrated herbal remedy designed for deep, warming relief of joint and muscle pain, stiffness, backaches, and arthritis. This ointment contains a mix of camphor and menthol as its active ingredients, alongside a blend of cajuput, cassia, clove, and dementholised mint oils.
Pros:
- Strongest concentration of herbal ingredients in the Tiger Balm range
- Non-staining and concentrated
Cons:
- Overpowering scent for some customers
- May cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in individuals with sensitive skin
6. Aspercreme Pain Relieving Creme With Lidocaine
Aspercreme with Lidocaine is a fragrance-free cream that numbs pain by soothing aggravated nerves. It stands out from some other options on this list as the strongest cream with lidocaine that does not require a prescription for effective pain relief. It’s also FSA/HSA eligible.
Pros:
- Fragrance-free formula for everyday life and sensitive skin
- Travel-friendly packaging for busy customers
Cons:
- Lidocaine is a strong ingredient that might urge some customers to consult a doctor before use
- Not recommended for large areas of the body or for children under 12
7. Topricin Pain Relief Therapy Cream
Topricin Pain Relief Therapy Cream is a homeopathic treatment with 11 natural ingredients like arnica and echinacea. It’s one of the few creams on our list that targets pain from carpal tunnel syndrome. This option is both odor-free and hypoallergenic, which can make it a suitable option for sensitive skin.
Pros:
- Focus on natural, homeopathic ingredients
- Offers relief for multiple conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome
Cons:
- Expensive price point at $69.99/bottle
8. Tylenol Precise Pain Relieving Cream
Tylenol Precise Pain Relieving Cream is another back cream on our list that uses lidocaine to numb minor joint and muscle soreness. It’s a suitable option to relieve pain in your back, shoulders, legs, hips, knees, elbows, and ankles.
Pros:
- Not sticky or greasy
- Free of dyes and fragrances
- Massaging application
Cons:
- Could irritate sensitive skin
9. MagniLife Leg and Back Pain Relief Cream
MagniLife Leg and Back Pain Relief Cream is a homeopathic treatment that targets a wide variety of back pain types, including shooting, stabbing, tingling, and burning pain. It features natural ingredients like belladonna and magnesia phosphorica, all of which help soothe pains while sitting or standing, as well as back and leg pain.
The cream also includes Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice and Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract for added soothing effects and moisture on the skin
Pros:
- Targets a range of discomforts from burning to stabbing pain
- Contains natural ingredients
- Absorbent and non-greasy
Cons:
- Can take months to show results for some customers
10. Biofreeze Pain Relief Cream
Biofreeze Pain Relief Cream is suitable for both large and small areas so you can lather it all on without any worries. It uses menthol as its only active ingredient for that recognizable cooling effect and doesn’t contain any NSAIDs, propylene glycol, or parabens. It’s also easily absorbed by the skin, and there’s no greasy mess left behind.
Pros:
- Quick and effective pain relief
- Satisfying and soothing cooling effect
- Safe, natural, and free from harmful side effects
Cons:
- Single active ingredients may not satisfy all users’ needs
- Results may vary among individuals
- Occasionally difficult to find due to high demand
11. Blue Emu Muscle Analgesic Cream
Blue Emu Muscle Analgesic Cream distinguishes itself by not only targeting pain relief but also by nourishing and moisturizing the skin. Its unique blend, including emu oil, aloe vera, MSM, and glucosamine, offers moisture and doesn’t leave an odor — meaning it’s a versatile option for any setting.
These components work together to soothe and support muscles and joints without the use of NSAIDs, parabens, sulfates, or fragrances. The brand is often praised online for its effectiveness against arthritis and muscle soreness.
Pros:
- Odor-free
- Deeply hydrating and moisturizing
- Provides long-lasting relief without the common side effects associated with similar products
Cons:
- Efficacy varies
What Ingredients Actually Work in Back Pain Creams?
The effectiveness of a back pain relief cream comes down to its active ingredients and how they interact with your body. Some ingredients work by reducing inflammation, while others block pain signals or soothe muscles through warming or cooling sensations.
Understanding which ingredients address your specific type of back pain can help you avoid trial-and-error and choose a cream that delivers real relief. Below, we break down the most common and effective ingredients found in today’s best back pain creams—and explain how they work to reduce discomfort.
Active Ingredients in Back Pain Creams
Back pain creams utilize a variety of active ingredients to provide relief. These include:
Camphor
Inflammation affects millions of Americans both acutely and chronically — it’s also a leading cause of death, occurring in conditions like arthritis, joint pain, diabetes, and more. Camphor is a naturally occurring chemical (terpenoid, an organic compound) with anti-inflammatory properties.
It’s found in the wood of a laurel tree and stimulates nerve endings to relieve pain with cooling and warming sensations.
Menthol
Menthol is also an anti-inflammatory and is a chemical that naturally appears in peppermint and similar mint plants. It also brings pain relief with cooling sensations and promotes calmness with its soothing scent.
Lidocaine
Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that numbs the surrounding area of application.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is derived from chili peppers and reduces the intensity of pain signals in the brain.
Arnica
Arnica is a natural remedy that reduces swelling and decreases pain. It’s derived from a species of sunflower.
Diclofenac Sodium
Diclofenac sodium is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and pain.
Trolamine Salicylate
Trolamine salicylate is another NSAID that reduces inflammation and discomfort.
More About Back Pain Creams
This section answers frequently asked questions about back pain creams, offering insights into their efficacy, usage, and safety.
What is the best back pain cream you can get over the counter?
Over-the-counter options vary in ingredients and effectiveness, with some people finding relief with menthol-based creams, while others prefer NSAIDs or natural options like arnica. Back pain creams with cannabinoids offer a unique combination of efficacy and natural appeal.
For example, Dragon Pain Relief formulas combine a therapeutic blend of camphor and menthol with select terpenes, essential oils, and beneficial cannabinoids for comprehensive relief.
How often can you apply pain relief cream?
You can usually safely apply back pain relief cream at least once a day, though some companies instruct users to apply their creams 3-4 times per day.
What is the best lidocaine cream for back pain?
Aspercreme and Tylenol both offer lidocaine cream for back pain, though keep in mind it’s a particularly strong ingredient that might not be suitable for everyone.
What is the best muscle pain relief cream?
Dragon Pain Relief lotion and balm are the best muscle pain relief creams for people who crave a natural solution that’s proven effective. Dragon grows their own plants on their farms and extracts CBD from hemp plants to offer a natural, and affordable product that works quickly and effectively.
Does CBD cream help with back pain?
CBD’s effectiveness for back pain has been investigated in various medical studies and is attributed to significantly improved quality of life. It works well as a natural solution with beneficial effects and may minimize the need for opioids.
Is it safe to use pain relief creams with other skin products?
It can be safe to combine pain relief creams with other skin products, but you should carefully check the labels to prevent irritation.
Use the Best Back Pain Creams for Ultimate Relief
Back pain doesn’t have to stop you from living your life anymore. You have a wide range of options for back pain relief in this list—but we’d love to invite you to try Dragon Pain’s products.
Our vast selection of balms all leverage nanoemulsion technology for ultra-quick absorption, and a much higher CBD concentration than our competitors.
We also grow our plant ingredients organically right here in the USA. Throw it all together? We’ve created an NSAID-free, non-opioid, or habit-forming product that blends the power of Eastern Plant medicine with the tried-and-true effects of camphor and menthol. All this builds up to a product that delivers back pain relief that works three times as fast as similar products on the market.
