HistoryThe tradition of using topical liniments to promote healing of injured bones and muscles has very deep roots in many healing systems around the world. They have been particularly popular among martial artists who used them extensively to treat their injuries sustained during training and matches. Many well-known masters of the martial artist also had in-depth knowledge of traditional herbal remedies. They developed various herbal liniments and plasters from the ground up herbs and roots. Most of the recipes for these preparations were family secrets passed down from generation to generation. With the advancement of the pharmaceutical industry, more convenient and concentrated preparations of these traditional preparations were developed.Mechanism of actionTopical analgesics work by first cooling the skin and then warming it up, thus providing a topical anesthetic and analgesic action in the affected area. The cooling and warming action interferes with the transmission of pain signals through the nerves and decreases pain perception.
Improving blood circulationTopical analgesics (pain relievers) as they became known in our modern society, are also known as counter irritants. They cause reddening of the skin by dilation of the local blood vessels. Dilation of the blood vessels results in increased blood circulation and a soothing feeling of warmth. The irritation of the sensory nerve endings (nerves at the surface of the skin) alters or offsets the pain deep inside of the muscle or joints that are served by the same nerves. Improved blood circulation in the injured area also helps to flush out number of the inflammatory chemicals that cause an uncomfortable painful sensation. Fresh blood that circulates in the injured area carries in also white blood cells and other nutrients which help to promote tissue healing.Available preparationsThere is number of topical analgesics on the market. Most of the topical analgesics are available without prescription over the counter. They usually consist of a mixture of methyl salicylate, menthol, and camphor in various concentrations. Some topical analgesics also contain herbal extracts which have been found helpful in the healing of injured tissue. These topical analgesics are available in gel forms, creams or ointments. Ointments can be particularly useful if the preparation is used for a massage since it provides better lubrication. In essence, however, all these topical analgesics have a similar benefit and personal preference can be used as the primary guide for selecting the right product.Proper use of topical analgesicsTopical analgesics should be gently massaged to the painful area 2 - 3 times a day at least for a week torealize the full benefit. In case of intense burning sensation, use the product only two times a day to avoid excessive irritation of the skin. Some individuals may develop extreme skin irritation after applying the topical analgesic for the first time. Before you apply a new product to a large area of the skin, always test a tiny amount on a small area of your skin. Testing a small area of the skin before applying the product to a large area will also allow you to gauge the potency of the preparation. This is important because some products may be quite strong and the burning sensation may be too intense for you. You should also never apply any of these preparations directly before or after taking a hot shower or going to the sauna. Doing so will cause a powerful burning sensation which may hinder you from further use of the product.
