While muscle creams (like Tiger Balm, Biofreeze, and Aspercreme) don't do much against FMS pain, they can provide relief from muscles aches that can contribute to your overall pain level and make it hard to get comfortable or fall asleep.
Some of the best pain relief creams for fibromyalgia include over-the-counter topical creams containing menthol, capsaicin, and salicylates, as well as prescription topical medications such as gabapentin and lidocaine. These creams can provide relief from muscle aches, joint pains, and headaches caused by fibromyalgia.
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs
NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, are available without a prescription. These medications may be more effective in relieving pain when combined with other medications used to manage fibromyalgia.
It is said to have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, the processes of which are yet to be fully understood. Variations of the product suit different ailments, which can be found below. Red Tiger Balm: Typically helps relieve inflammation and muscular pains, and insect bite itch relief.
An important first step to feeling better is figuring out what makes your symptoms worse. Common triggers include: Cold or humid weather. Too much or too little physical activity.
Over-the-counter pain medications
Over-the-counter drugs may help manage fibromyalgia pain. Some examples include aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). If these are not effective, a doctor may prescribe stronger options.
Store Tiger Balm away from children and do not use it on those under 12 years old unless a doctor recommends it. There is little research on the safety of using Tiger Balm during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Speak with a doctor before using it at these times.
Tiger Balm has an average rating of 7.6 out of 10 from a total of 32 ratings on Drugs.com. 66% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 14% reported a negative effect. Voltaren has an average rating of 7.4 out of 10 from a total of 166 ratings on Drugs.com.
Caffeine, heavy meals, and alcohol should be avoided before bedtime. Individuals should go to bed around the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, even on weekends or after a sleepless night. Exposure to light should be minimized before bedtime.
Regular gentle exercise is one of the most effective ways that fibromyalgia flare ups can be avoided or diminished and pain managed. Exercise in moderation may increase pain at first but may help prevent or improve pain over time and build up endurance, muscle strength, avoidance of depression, and boost moods.
Prescription NSAIDs like Celebrex (celecoxib) or Voltaren (diclofenac) also carry the same risks as their OTC counterparts, but may be appropriate for short-term relief if kept at the lowest possible effective dose. Opioid medications are generally not recommended for fibromyalgia treatment, except in severe cases.
Heat therapy for fibromyalgia
A hot pack helps to relieve muscle spasms and pain, especially if caused by restless leg syndrome. Soak a face cloth or towel in hot steaming water,and place over the affected area for 10 minutes. For those with fibromyalgia, a whirlpool bath helps alleviate pain and stress.
It's made of so-called counterirritants, substances that cause mild hot and cool sensations on your skin to distract your brain. In other words, Tiger Balm won't pounce on your pain—but it will confuse and delight your nerve endings (and your nose) with tingle-inducing ingredients.
Uses. This product is used to treat minor aches and pains of the muscles/joints (such as arthritis, backache, sprains). Menthol and methyl salicylate are known as counterirritants. They work by causing the skin to feel cool and then warm.
Treating muscle soreness is the most popular use of Tiger Balm. Research has shown the combination of menthol and methyl salicylate in patch form helped lower mild to moderate muscle pain. Research has also shown that the warming and cooling sensations of Tiger Balm ointment temporarily alleviate muscle pain.
Tiger Balm products have been used for nearly 100 years and sold throughout the world. Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub, when applied topically provides temporary relief from joint pain associated with arthritis. It contains no alcohol, thus avoiding localized, dry skin condition when applied. Shake well before using.
Red Tiger Balm is stronger and more effective in relieving deep muscle and joint pain, while White Tiger Balm is ideal for soothing headaches, nasal congestion and insect bites. Each of the balms has its own composition of essential oils, which gives it specific properties.
When you take a warm shower your pores open up and that stuff will penetrate fast and furious. My knee is literally on fire as I type this after using the normal amount I usually do, but this time right after a shower. I'm serious it feels like someone poured lava on my knee.
Although large-scale studies are still needed to confirm their effectiveness, the newest FDA-approved treatments for fibromyalgia include Quell and milnacipran. Quell is an over-the-counter transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator intended to be used for pain relief.
The most helpful treatment approach for fibromyalgia is a combination of self-care, physical activity and cognitive-behavioral therapy. But medication may also be needed. Many drugs prescribed for fibromyalgia work to turn down “pain volume” in the central nervous system (CNS).
Some have found real help from acupuncture, learning Tai Chi, or taking yoga classes. You may also need to take medicine to help you sleep and relieve your pain. Medicines that are commonly prescribed for fibromyalgia include antidepressants, antiseizure medications, pain relievers, and sleep aids.