Rugby High Potency Capsaicin 0.075% Cream - Pain Relief Cream for Arthritis - 2 Oz (57g)...

I use gloves to put it on: it works almost instantly! Very good pain relief, very impressive. My only problem with it is the intensity of the smell, and the fact that even though I use latex gloves the fumes stick to my fingers and Lord help me if I rub my eyes! Handwashing required in copious amounts, but it does work great at easing pain. Great value for cost!

I have been dealing with neck pain for months, and someone suggested capcaicin ointment. Other reviewers say that this cream actually treats the problem. As far as I understand, it does not do that. However, it does a great job distracting you. It creates a hot sensation that distracts you from the pain, and in a weird, unexpected way, it works. As other reviewers have also warned, be careful! Start with very little, and use more only if needed. Also, don't exercise or do yard work in the heat within 12 hours of using this cream. I used it one night, then went on a run the next morning and thought my skin was going to burn off (it did not--it was just the sensation). I also gardened one day in the heat, and the same thing happened. I use it cautiously now, but overall, it's a good way to feel less pain as long as you won't be spending an extended period outside in the heat and sun.

product works as advertised

I've had very painful feet. I applied a very thin layer to my feet first thing in the morning. By the afternoon it was beginning to feel very uncomfortable and as evening approached the heat became unbearable! I was close to tears. I tried everything to wash it off but only made it worse. I read online that vinegar would neutralize the pain and it did. I soaked my feet in vinegar and they finally felt normal. Bottom line, this may be too strong for some people so use with caution. If it does get too hot for you, use vinegar. It really works!

I've noticed that recently diclofenac topical gel has taken over almost all the shelf space that used to be occupied by capsaicin compounds like this on drugstore shelves. Diclofenac topical is a good product. It's a local anti-inflammatory, which is safer than oral NSAIDS, and can help a lot. However capsaicin, such as this product, works in a different way: it's a true painkiller that blocks nerve impulses. And there's no reason not to use them both, layering them on, to get even better relief than either one alone. Capsaicin takes a couple weeks to kick in well. At that point, it will cut pain by about 50%. If that's not enough, try adding diclofenac and/or or take some oral painkiller (I use tylenol). The problem with capsaicin topical is that it can cause a lot of pain if you don't wait long enough before bathing or working up a sweat. Your skin eventually gets used to it so that doesn't happen, but it's a good idea to start very cautiously with tiny amounts and then gradually increase. I've used several brands of capsaicin. This inexpensive brand is as good as any. I use it just on the areas of my knees that hurt. Glad that we finally have two types of topicals that are both very helpful for pain! Good luck with your pain!