Pain relief ointments are among the most common topical treatment options for relieving pain in muscles and joints. They are fairly easy to get and effective, which makes them preferred choices for minor injuries, sprains, bruises, and inflammation. But now that numerous pain relief ointments are available from various brands, it can seem confusing  to pick one. A few simple tips can help one select the best pain relief ointment.

Tips to buy the best pain relief ointment
Here are a few tips to buy the best pain relief ointment:

1. Check the ingredients
Reading the list of ingredients at the back of the packaging is always a good idea when picking a pain relief ointment. This helps one understand the composition of the ointment and find out what the ingredients are for. One can also find out if the ointment contains genuine and effective ingredients that help with pain relief and is devoid of harmful additives. Different pain relief ointments may contain different ingredients based on their type and effectiveness. However, there are some common ingredients to look for in these ointments. These include the following:

• Counterirritants
  Counterirritants are ingredients that leave a cooling or burning sensation on the skin upon application. These most commonly include menthol, camphor, and methyl salicylate, which is also called oil of evergreen. Counterirritants distract the brain from the pain by creating a burning or cooling sensation.

• Salicylates
  Salicylates are ingredients that help reduce pain. Ointments with salicylates are especially effective for relieving pain in joints close to the skin, such as the elbows, fingers, and kn ees. This is because  the skin can quickly absorb the salicylates present in topical ointments.
• Capsaicin
  Capsaicin is a compound commonly found in chili peppers; in fact, this is what makes them spicy. The same compound is also highly effective in relieving joint and diabetic nerve pain. Ointments containing capsaicin make evoke a burning sensation on the skin when initially applied.

2. Explain one’s symptoms to a pharmacist
With numerous options available for pain relief ointments, it is common to be unsure which one to choose. These ointments also differ in strength and composition of ingredients, which can make it even more confusing for one to choose. In such cases, it is better for one to inform the pharmacist about the symptoms. Pharmacists are highly qualified and can offer the perfect ointment for the individual based on the intensity and location of the pain. They can also guide one about the dosage and the right way to apply ointment.

3. Let the pharmacist know about any allergies
When buying an ointment, reading the ingredient list is also important to check if there are any ingredients that one is allergic to. Even if one has been using a particular ointment from a specific brand for a long time, it is better to check the ingredient list before purchasing.  This  is because  it is possible that the brand may have slightly changed the formulation and added an ingredient that may not be suitable for it.  If one comes across an ingredient that one is allergic to, one can promptly inform the pharmacist. The pharmacist can then offer a different ointment that does not contain the said ingredient. Likewise, if one is choosing an ointment suggested by the pharmacist, one must inform them about any allergies beforehand.

4. Inform the pharmacist or a doctor about existing conditions
At the time of buying a pain relief ointment, one must also inform the pharmacist about any existing medical conditions that one may have.  This  is because there are certain compounds that ointments can have that could pose a risk to individuals with liver or heart problems. If one is unsure whether the ointment is safe for their condition, it is better to consult a doctor about it. Also, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before purchasing a pain relief ointment to discuss any possible risks of using it. In fact, checking with a doctor about which ointment to buy is recommended. 

5. Confirm an ointment’s interactions with other treatment options
Along with existing medical conditions, individuals must also inform the pharmacist about their ongoing treatment for a condition.  This is because the compounds and ingredients in the ointment may interact with the ongoing treatment and cause serious side effects. The interaction can also reduce the effectiveness of either or both treatment options. To be on the safer side, one can also consult their doctor and seek their advice in this matter.

After buying the ointment, one must make sure to stick to the manufacturer’s instructions for using the ointment. One must also keep an eye out for any side effects the ointment may be causing. If one does notice any side effects, it is crucial to inform the doctor as soon as possible and get a different ointment.