7 Best Products For Chronic and Muscular Pains
Pain is a universal experience that can range from an occasional annoyance to a chronic struggle. Whether it’s due to overexertion, intense workouts, aging, or an underlying condition from a muscular and joint pain. Pain can take a toll on our daily life and hold us back from living our best.
As a massage therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how chronic and muscular pain can hold people back from living their best lives. Whether it’s sore shoulders from long hours at a desk, aching legs after intense workouts, or lingering pain from injuries, it can feel like there’s no escape.
The good news is that there are products that can help to relieve pain effectively. Over the years, I’ve tried countless products—both for my clients and myself—searching for the most effective solutions to ease pain and restore comfort.
So in this article, I’ll be sharing 7 of the best products that I’ve personally used and recommend for pain relief. These aren’t just random picks; they’re tried-and-true remedies that have delivered real results. From balms and oils to creams and gels, each product offers something unique—whether it’s fast relief, deep penetration, or long-lasting comfort.
If you’re tired of battling pain and want to get back to doing the things you love, these products can make a real difference. Let’s dive in, and I’ll share my experience and insights on each one and why it’s worth considering
1. Benjie’s Rubbing Balm
Benjie’s Rubbing Balm has been a staple in my toolkit for a while now, and it’s one of the products I turn to when I need quick relief for muscle tension and aches. It’s small, easy to carry, and incredibly effective for targeting stubborn pain.
What I Love About It:
The balm creates a warm, soothing sensation as it penetrates deep into the muscles or affected areas. I’ve used it after long days of massaging clients when my own hands and shoulders start to ache, and it works like magic. It absorbs quickly without being greasy, which is a huge plus. I also recommend it to clients with tension headaches—just a little on the temples, and they feel relief almost instantly.
Who It’s Best For:
Anyone who lead active lifestyles or work long hours or anyone dealing with muscle knots, joint pain, or soreness from physical activity will appreciate how quickly this balm works. It’s especially great for on-the-go use because of its compact size.
Key Benefits: Why You’ll Love It
- Fast Relief: Users have reported feeling relief in as little as a few minutes after application.
- Portable Packaging: Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your bag or pocket for on-the-go relief.
- Versatile Use: Ideal for everything from everyday aches to recovery after physical activity.
- Non-messy Application: It absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue.
2. Wood Lock Medicated Oil
Wood Lock Medicated Oil is a staple in traditional Chinese medicine and has been trusted for generations to alleviate muscle soreness, stiffness, and joint pain. Its formula combines menthol, camphor, and a mix of essential oils to deliver a warm, tingling sensation that improves circulation and reduces inflammation.
Wood Lock Medicated Oil is a personal favorite of mine, and it become a game-changer for many of my clients. This oil brings the perfect blend of warmth and deep pain relief, thanks to its combination of menthol, camphor, and essential oils.
What I Love About It:
What sets Wood Lock apart is its ability to penetrate deeply into the skin. I often use this oil during massages for clients who have deep muscle tension or stiffness, and it helps loosen tight areas almost immediately. This makes it especially useful for chronic pain or injuries that require improved blood flow to help accelerate healing.
Who It’s Best For:
If you suffer from muscle stiffness or joint pain, Wood Lock is a must-try. It’s also perfect for post-workout recovery or easing stiffness after a long day. I will say the scent is strong, but for me, it’s part of the experience—it’s like a signal that relief is on the way.
Key Benefits:
- Warmth and Relaxation: The oil creates a comforting, warming effect that relaxes tight muscles.
- Enhanced Blood Flow: By promoting circulation, it helps accelerate healing and relieve pain.
- Trusted Heritage: This product has a long-standing reputation for its effectiveness.
3. Kwan Loong Pain Relieving Aromatic Oil
Kwan Loong Pain Relieving Aromatic Oil is another tried-and-true remedy rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s particularly effective for tension-related pain, such as headaches, muscle knots, and even minor sprains.
For those who prefer a cooling sensation over the warming effects , Kwan Loong Pain Relieving Aromatic Oil is a breath of fresh air—literally. I started using this product for sore neck muscles, and it quickly became one of my go-to in my practice.
What I Love About It:
It feels incredibly light on the skin and absorbs quickly, which is great for people who don’t like the greasy residue of thicker balms. I particularly love using this oil on clients with headaches or mild muscle pain because the menthol delivers such a refreshing and cooling relief. Plus, the scent is invigorating without being overwhelming. Kwan Loong Pain Relieving Oil also has a very strong burning sensation to the skin if applied alone directly to the skin so it’s best to base or mix it with a oil to reduce the burning sensation if it might be to strong for you.
Who It’s Best For:
This is ideal for anyone dealing with tension headaches, muscle fatigue, or minor sprains. I’ve also found it helpful for clients who sit at desks all day and suffer from neck and shoulder tension.
Key Benefits:
- Cooling Sensation: The oil’s menthol content delivers a cooling effect that numbs pain and soothes inflammation. It has a very strong burning sensation to the skin.
- Lightweight Formula: Unlike thicker balms, this oil absorbs quickly without leaving an oily residue.
- Multi-Purpose: In addition to relieving muscular pain, it’s also great for sinus headaches when applied to the temples.
4. Zheng Gu Shui External Analgesic
The name “Zheng Gu Shui” translates to “mend the bones,” and this product lives up to its promise. This external analgesic is a liquid pain reliever that’s ideal for treating bruises, sprains, and other injuries where inflammation and pain are present.
What I Love About It:
The liquid formula allows it to penetrate deeply into the skin, reaching the source of pain. I’ve used this on my lower back after long, physically demanding days, and it’s incredibly effective at reducing inflammation and soreness. It’s also a favorite among my active clients who are recovering from sports injuries.
Who It’s Best For:
If you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic pain, or even battling arthritis, this product delivers. It’s strong and effective, though it does have a strong herbal scent that some people might need time to get used to.
Key Benefits:
- Promotes Healing: In addition to relieving pain, Zheng Gu Shui supports tissue and bone recovery.
- Penetrates Deeply: Its herbal formula sinks into the skin to target pain at its source.
- Versatile: Suitable for treating everything from sports injuries to everyday aches. Many users report feeling a significant reduction in pain and swelling after just a few uses
5. Penetrex Joint & Muscle Cream
Penetrex is a well-known brand in the pain-relief market, and for good reason. This cream is formulated with natural anti-inflammatory ingredients like arnica, vitamin B6, and MSM to target the root causes of pain and discomfort.
Penetrex Cream is one of my most recommended products for clients dealing with chronic inflammation and joint pain. It’s gentle yet powerful, thanks to its natural anti-inflammatory ingredients.
What I Love About It:
This cream absorbs beautifully into the skin without leaving any residue or strong odor. I’ve used it on myself after experiencing wrist pain, and it provided significant relief without needing constant reapplication.
Who It’s Best For:
If you have conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or general muscle soreness, this cream is a game-changer. It’s also perfect for people who are sensitive to strong-smelling products.
Key Benefits:
- Non-Greasy Formula: Unlike many pain-relief creams, Penetrex absorbs quickly without leaving an oily residue.
- No Overpowering Smell: It’s odorless, making it perfect for use anytime, anywhere.
- Long-Lasting Relief: Provides relief for hours without the need for constant reapplication.
6. Penetrex Joint & Muscle Therapy Roll-on Gel
The Penetrex Roll-on Gel offers the same powerful formula as the cream, but in a convenient roll-on applicator. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants a mess-free, portable option for pain relief.
The cooling effect of the gel adds an extra layer of relief, making it a favorite among athletes and office workers alike. I love having this in my bag for quick pain relief when I’m on the go.
What I Love About It:
The roll-on applicator is fantastic for targeting specific areas, like the shoulders, wrists, or lower back. It’s mess-free and doesn’t require any hand contact, which makes it super convenient during busy days.
Who It’s Best For:
If you need precise, on-the-go relief, this product is perfect. It’s a lifesaver for people with desk jobs or anyone who needs fast pain relief throughout the day.
Key Benefits:
- Precision Application: The roll-on applicator allows you to target pain exactly where it hurts.
- On-the-Go Relief: Its compact size makes it easy to carry and use whenever needed.
- No Mess: Perfect for people who don’t want to get their hands dirty.
7. Absorbine Veterinary Liniment Gel
Yes, it says “veterinary,” but don’t let that scare you! This gel was originally made for horses, but its powerful formula works wonders on human muscle and joint pain. ,Absorbine Veterinary Liniment Gel has found a dedicated human following thanks to its powerful pain-relieving properties. This gel is incredibly effective for deep muscle soreness, back pain, and even arthritis.
What I Love About It:
I was skeptical at first, but after trying it, I became a believer. It penetrates deeply and provides long-lasting relief for stubborn pain. It is great for back pain and shoulders after a long days work, and the menthol cooling effect feels amazing.
Who It’s Best For:
This gel is a top pick for athletes, gym-goers, or anyone dealing with chronic muscle pain. If nothing else has worked, give this a try—you won’t regret it. While it has a strong scent, most users are willing to overlook it because of how effective it is.
Key Benefits:
- Powerful Formula: Designed for deep penetration to target stubborn pain.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces swelling and promotes healing.
- Trusted by Athletes: Frequently used by those in high-intensity sports.
Conclusion
As a massage therapist, I know how debilitating chronic and muscular pain can be, but I also know that relief is possible. These 7 products have been game-changers for me, my clients, and countless others. Whether you’re dealing with everyday aches or long-term pain, there’s something here that can help you feel better and live with less discomfort.
Don’t wait to take control of your pain—these products can make a real difference. Give them a try, and let your body thank you! Remember also to always consult a healthcare professional before using new products for pain management.
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