What is Analgesic Gel Used for? Relieving Muscle, Joint, and Nerve Pain

October 8, 2025 •

6 min read

According to a 2017 Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews overview, certain topical analgesic gels have been shown to be effective for managing acute pain from sprains and strains. Find out what is analgesic gel used for and how this topical pain relief method can help manage localized muscle, joint, and nerve pain by acting directly on the affected area.

Quick Summary

Analgesic gels are topical medications used for localized pain relief from conditions like arthritis, muscle strains, and sprains. They work by targeting specific areas, minimizing systemic side effects.

Key Points

Targeted Relief: Analgesic gels are applied directly to the skin over the site of pain, providing localized relief for muscles and joints.
Minimized Systemic Effects: By acting locally, gels reduce the amount of medication entering the bloodstream, which minimizes the risk of systemic side effects seen with oral pain relievers.
Diverse Mechanisms: Different gels work in distinct ways, including blocking inflammation (NSAIDs like diclofenac), providing counter-irritant sensations (menthol, camphor), or numbing the area (lidocaine).
Versatile Applications: Common uses include relieving minor aches and pains from arthritis, sprains, strains, backaches, and specific types of nerve pain.
Ease of Use: Gels are easy to apply and can be a good option for individuals who have trouble swallowing pills or have a sensitive stomach.
Important Precautions: Avoid applying gel to broken skin, wounds, or with heating pads, and always wash your hands thoroughly after use to prevent irritation.

How Analgesic Gels Work: A Deeper Look into Pain Relief

Analgesic gels are topical medications designed to deliver pain-relieving ingredients directly to the affected area. Unlike oral medications, which must travel through the bloodstream and impact the entire body, these gels are absorbed through the skin to act locally on the underlying tissue. This targeted approach can result in faster relief and a reduced risk of systemic side effects. The mechanism of action depends heavily on the gel's active ingredients, which fall into several key categories.

Mechanisms of Action Based on Ingredient

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Gels containing NSAIDs like diclofenac work by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes in the body. This blockage reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. By applying the NSAID directly to the skin over the site of pain, the medication can concentrate its anti-inflammatory effects where they are needed most.
Counterirritants: Ingredients like menthol and camphor fall into this category. They create a cooling or warming sensation on the skin, which distracts the brain from the deeper aches and pains in the muscles and joints. The sensation produced by a counterirritant can temporarily mask the pain by producing a less intense pain to counter a more severe one.
Capsaicin: This compound is derived from chili peppers and provides a warming sensation by stimulating nerve endings. With repeated use, capsaicin can actually deplete a chemical called substance P from sensory neurons, which reduces the transmission of pain signals. This desensitization can lead to long-term pain relief for some conditions.
Local Anesthetics: Gels containing local anesthetics, such as lidocaine, work by numbing the area to which they are applied. They stabilize the neuronal membranes and block nerve impulses, effectively reducing the perception of pain. This makes them particularly useful for conditions involving localized nerve pain.

Common Conditions Treated by Analgesic Gels

Analgesic gels are a versatile tool for managing a variety of localized pain conditions. They are most effective for issues affecting joints close to the skin's surface, such as those in the hands, wrists, elbows, feet, ankles, and knees, as well as for muscle and soft tissue pain. Some of the most common applications include:

Acute Musculoskeletal Pain: For short-term injuries like sprains, strains, and bruises, an analgesic gel can provide targeted relief.
Arthritis Pain: Topical NSAID gels, in particular, are often recommended for managing the pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis in joints like the hands and knees.
Backache: Gels containing counterirritants like menthol or salicylates can be used to temporarily relieve minor backaches and muscle soreness.
Neuropathic Pain: For specific types of nerve pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia (pain following shingles), gels with capsaicin or lidocaine can be beneficial.
Sports Injuries: Athletes frequently use analgesic gels for the temporary relief of muscle aches and soreness following strenuous activity.

Key Ingredients Found in Analgesic Gels

Analgesic gels rely on specific active ingredients to produce their pain-relieving effects. Knowing the primary ingredient can help determine the best type of gel for a particular condition.

Menthol and Camphor: These are classic counterirritants that provide a cooling or warming distraction from pain.
Diclofenac Sodium: A powerful topical NSAID, diclofenac (found in products like Voltaren Arthritis Pain gel) is used to reduce both pain and inflammation, particularly in osteoarthritis.
Capsaicin: This is the natural, heat-producing compound from chili peppers used to deplete substance P and reduce nerve pain signals over time.
Lidocaine: A local anesthetic that provides a numbing effect, lidocaine is often used for nerve-related pain.
Methyl Salicylate: A salicylate derivative with pain-relieving and counterirritant properties, often found alongside menthol.

Analgesic Gels vs. Oral Pain Relievers

Choosing between a topical gel and an oral pain reliever depends on the type of pain, its location, and individual health considerations. The following table compares some key factors:


Feature	Analgesic Gel	Oral Pain Relievers (e.g., NSAID pills)
Application Area	Localized to the site of pain	Systemic, affecting the entire body
Risk of Systemic Side Effects	Significantly lower, as minimal medication enters the bloodstream	Higher risk of side effects like stomach upset, kidney problems, and heart issues
Efficacy	Most effective for localized pain near the skin's surface (e.g., knee, hand arthritis)	Effective for widespread or deep-seated pain throughout the body
Speed of Relief	Can provide fast, direct relief for some conditions	Must be absorbed through the digestive system and circulated, which can take longer
Drug Interactions	Lower risk of interaction due to minimal systemic absorption	Higher risk of interacting with other systemic medications
User Consideration	Ideal for patients with sensitive stomachs or those who need to avoid oral medication side effects	Suitable for broad pain management or conditions where topical treatment is ineffective

How to Safely and Effectively Apply Analgesic Gel

Proper application is crucial for maximizing the benefits and minimizing risks associated with analgesic gels. Follow these best practices for safe and effective use:

Clean and Dry the Area: Before applying, wash and thoroughly dry the skin over the affected area to ensure optimal absorption.
Use as Directed: Follow the instructions on the product label or as advised by a healthcare professional, including the recommended frequency of application.
Apply a Thin Layer: Squeeze the appropriate amount of gel onto the skin (some products like diclofenac gel include a dosing card) and rub it in gently and thoroughly until it is absorbed.
Wash Your Hands: Unless you are treating your hands, wash them immediately after application to prevent accidentally spreading the gel to sensitive areas like the eyes or mouth.
Avoid Damaged Skin and Heat: Do not apply gel to open wounds, irritated skin, or with heating pads, as this can increase absorption and the risk of adverse effects.
Avoid Bandaging: Do not tightly bandage the area after application unless specifically instructed to do so.

Who Should Consider Using an Analgesic Gel?

Analgesic gels are a suitable option for a wide range of individuals seeking pain relief, but they are particularly well-suited for certain populations and conditions. They are a good choice for those with localized, superficial pain, such as athletes recovering from minor strains or individuals with arthritis in their hands or knees. Patients with sensitive stomachs who experience gastrointestinal issues from oral NSAIDs can benefit from the low systemic absorption of topical alternatives. Furthermore, for older adults or those taking multiple medications, the reduced risk of drug interactions and systemic side effects makes analgesic gels a safer alternative. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if a specific analgesic gel is appropriate for your condition.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Although generally safe when used correctly, analgesic gels can cause side effects, most of which are local and mild. Common side effects include skin irritation, redness, itching, or a burning sensation at the application site. Allergic reactions are possible but rare.

Precautions: Never apply to broken or irritated skin. Keep away from eyes and mucous membranes. Patients with sensitivities to aspirin or NSAIDs should use caution with salicylate or diclofenac products. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before use. If symptoms persist for more than seven days or worsen, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Conclusion

Analgesic gels provide a targeted, effective, and generally safe approach to managing localized pain. By delivering active ingredients directly to the site of pain, they offer a viable alternative to oral medications, particularly for musculoskeletal issues like arthritis, strains, and sprains. With different formulations available, they can provide relief through varied mechanisms, from counterirritation to anti-inflammatory action. However, understanding the specific type of gel, following proper application techniques, and being aware of potential side effects are essential for achieving optimal results and ensuring safety. Consulting a healthcare professional can help you choose the right product for your needs and ensure it is used correctly.

National Institutes of Health

Frequently Asked Questions

Analgesic gel is primarily used for the temporary, localized relief of minor aches and pains in muscles and joints. This includes conditions like arthritis, simple backaches, strains, sprains, and bruises.

Analgesic gel works by absorbing through the skin to act on the tissue underneath. Different types work in different ways: NSAID gels reduce inflammation, counterirritants like menthol create a distracting hot or cold sensation, and anesthetic gels numb the area.

For localized pain, analgesic gel can be safer than oral pain relievers. It provides pain relief with minimal systemic absorption, reducing the risk of side effects like stomach irritation and other systemic complications associated with oral NSAIDs.

Yes, certain types of analgesic gels are formulated to help with nerve pain, or neuropathic pain. For example, gels containing capsaicin or lidocaine are sometimes used to manage specific nerve pain conditions like postherpetic neuralgia.

Common side effects are typically localized to the application site and can include skin irritation, redness, or a burning sensation. Severe reactions are rare but should be addressed by a healthcare professional.

While both are topical, gels are often non-greasy and absorb quickly, sometimes providing a cooling sensation. Creams are typically thicker, may provide longer-lasting effects, and require a more thorough massage.

To apply analgesic gel, first clean and dry the affected area. Apply a thin layer and gently massage it in until absorbed. Wash your hands thoroughly afterward unless treating the hands themselves. Always follow the specific instructions on the product label.