Several topical creams have been shown to provide temporary pain relief and comfort in osteoarthritis, with a low risk of side effects. Currently, topical creams are among the first-line recommendations for the treatment of osteoarthritis pain, especially among the elderly or those who may be otherwise susceptible to developing side effects of the oral (by mouth) medications.
Indications
Although JointFlex is recommended for pain relief in osteoarthritis, it does not slow down or cure the disease itself. According to the manufacturer, it can also be used to relieve pain from muscle sprains and strains, simple backaches, bruises, and cramps.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis affects men and women. It is a progressive condition characterized by aching, pain, and stiffness that worsens over time. It typically begins after age 45 and advances with age. Osteoarthritis involves the breakdown of the tissues in the joints and it gets exacerbated by joint injuries or by a lack of mobility.
Dosing and Availability
JointFlex is available as a cream, and it comes in a 4-ounce tube. It is also available in 3-ounce tube with natural turmeric as an additional component. It is available at most major pharmacies and drugstores without a prescription from a healthcare provider, with prices ranging between $12 to $20, depending on the vendor.
JointFlex Application
The makers of JointFlex recommend applying the product twice a day (morning and nighttime) but no more than four times a day. Although the manufacturer recommends using it for at least two weeks for optimum results, some users experience a degree of pain relief within 5-20 minutes after the first application.
How It Works
The active ingredient in JointFlex Pain Relieving Cream is Camphor. This substance is believed to provide pain relief. It is a counterirritant, which means that it reduces the symptomatic pain and discomfort by irritating the surface of the skin—without causing any actual harm.
Glucosamine and chondroitin are common ingredients in many dietary joint health supplements. These ingredients are added to topical JointFlex for skin conditioning, which aids in the delivery of active ingredient so that it can work faster.
The manufacturer uses a number of other inactive ingredients in JointFlex, including lanolin, aloe vera, peppermint oil, and Vitamin E.
Evidence of Efficacy
The efficacy of this product is referenced on the manufacturer’s website with an Australian research study published in 2003 in The Journal of Rheumatology. Study participants who had knee osteoarthritis used either a topical glucosamine and chondroitin preparation or a placebo for a period of eight weeks. The participants who received the glucosamine and chondroitin preparation experienced pain relief within four weeks and the difference in effects between the two groups was sustained for the whole eight week study period.
Side Effects, Risks, and Contraindications
JointFlex Pain Relieving Cream is recommended for external use only, and you should not use it in your mouth or get it in your eyes.
Generally, this product is not commonly associated with side effects or risks. In rare instances, it may irritate the skin if you use it on an open wound or on an area of the skin that is already irritated.
Children
The manufacturer does not recommend use for children aged 12 and under.
Drug Interactions
According to the manufacturer, there are generally no drug interactions with JointFlex.
Contraindications
People who have a known allergy or sensitivity to camphor or any of the ingredients in the product should not use JointFlex.
A Word From Verywell
If you have been using JointFlex without satisfactory relief, you should discuss your condition with your healthcare provider
. You may have another medical problem besides osteoarthritis, or you may experience more improvement with a different medication.
