Whether it’s seasonal aches and pains, a new workout routine, or chronic arthritis that simply needs some comfort, the right pain relief can make all the difference. As the cold winter weather has started making our knees ache and our hands grow stiff, we decided it was time to put together a list of pain relief options. As we researched the available options, it became clear there was plenty to choose from, including topical gels and creams, pellets, and balms. If you don’t like your lotion to have any smell, we’ve found some unscented options, as well as a cream with a light eucalyptus scent. Hopefully, you can find an option that relieves your sore, achy muscles, because this is the worst time of year to be slowed down by pain.
The 411 on Pain
As women move through their 50s and beyond, aches and pains can become more common in daily life. Hormonal changes, natural aging, joint wear, muscle stiffness, and conditions like arthritis can all contribute to discomfort. The good news is that there are many pain-relief options available today—ranging from gentle lifestyle adjustments to targeted products—that can help women stay active and comfortable.
Movement and gentle exercise are often the foundation of pain relief. Activities like walking, swimming, yoga, and Pilates help keep joints flexible, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve circulation without putting excess stress on the body. Even a short daily routine can make a noticeable difference over time.
Topical pain relievers are another popular option, especially for joint and muscle pain. Creams, gels, and roll-ons containing ingredients like menthol, capsaicin, or CBD provide localized relief without affecting the whole body. Many women appreciate these for knee, back, shoulder, or hand discomfort.
Heat and cold therapy remain a simple yet effective tool. Heating pads, warm baths, and heated wraps help relax stiff muscles and improve blood flow, while cold packs can reduce inflammation and swelling after activity. Alternating between the two can be especially helpful.
For some women, supplements such as magnesium, turmeric (curcumin), omega-3 fatty acids, or collagen may support joint and muscle health when used consistently. It’s always wise to discuss supplements with a healthcare provider to ensure they fit your individual needs.
Finally, mind-body approaches like massage, acupuncture, stretching, meditation, and mindfulness can ease pain by reducing tension and stress, which often amplify physical discomfort.
Pain reliefisn’t about one perfect solution; it’s about finding a thoughtful combination that supports comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
Top Pain Relief Options
Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links.
Physio Flex Pro Total Joint Support, $49 (was $80)
Feeling good in your body is about more than just moments free from discomfort; it’s about long-term mobility and comfort. Physio Flex Pro blends natural ingredients to support joint comfort and flexibility, helping you stay confident and active in everything you choose to do.
Penetrex Joint & Muscle Therapy, $16.98
Penetrex provides targeted support for common problem areas, including lower back, stiff neck, achy knees, shoulder tension, and hand soreness. Formulated without NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for those seeking natural alternatives to oral medications or medicated patches for routine joint and muscle strain.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Cream, $13.18
Trusted by health professionals, this cooling menthol formula is backed by science and research. It’s proven to deliver fast-acting, long-lasting, and deep-penetrating pain relief for sore muscles, backaches, sore joints, and arthritis.
Boiron Arnicare Gel for Relief of Joint Pain, Muscle Pain, Muscle Soreness, $12.59
This homeopathic medicine helps temporarily relieve muscle pain & stiffness due to minor injuries, overexertion & falls. Also great for pain, swelling, & discoloration from bruises.
Aleve Gelcaps, $20.43
Aleve Pain Reliever & Fever Reducer Gelcaps provide long-lasting arthritis pain relief, as well as relief from muscular aches, backache, menstrual cramps, headache, toothache, and the common cold.
Aspercreme Maximum Strength Pain Relief Cream with Lidocaine, $10.39
The active ingredient in this topical pain cream is clinically proven for minor arthritis, joint, and muscle pain. It also moisturizes and relieves without greasy residue or strong odor.
Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for Topical Arthritis Pain Relief, $11.98
The active ingredient in this topical pain cream is clinically proven for minor arthritis, joint, and muscle pain. The cream has no odor for discreet pain relief when you need it most. It’s made with soothing aloe and won’t leave a greasy residue.
CBD FX Muscle and Joint Cream Cooling Formula, $49.99
This powerful, rapidly-absorbing CBD cream for pain contains potent anti-inflammatory botanical extracts, including white willow bark, menthol, and caffeine, that effectively relieve muscle and joint pain. Made with broad-spectrum CBD, extracted from pure, organic hemp, as well as several natural pain relievers, this cream absorbs rapidly, without the greasy residue of other pain creams. This hemp-derived CBD cream offers an effective, natural alternative to sports creams, which are often loaded with chemical perfumes and additives that can be ineffective, clog pores, and leave a strong, unpleasant scent.
Boiron Arnica Montana Pellets, $14.61
This homeopathic medicine helps temporarily relieve muscle pain & stiffness due to minor injuries, overexertion, and falls. It’s also great for pain, swelling, and bruise discoloration.
Ebanel 5% Lidocaine Topical Numbing Cream, Maximum Strength, $17.69
Infused with aloe vera and vitamin E, this topical anesthetic numbing cream soothes and protects the skin from irritations. It’s best for minor cuts, minor scrapes, minor burns, insect bites, and anorectal disorders.
Bengay Pain Relieving Lidocaine Cream, $15.06
This pain-relieving cream desensitizes aggravated nerves with the numbing relief of 4% lidocaine HCl. It’s excellent for back, neck, shoulder, knee, elbow, hand, and wrist pain, as well as backaches, joint pain, and arthritis.
Once you get the pain relief you need for sore muscles, you can get back to doing what you love. Relish opportunities to spend time with family, hit the gym, or even cross-country ski. Enjoy!
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