As we all know the market is full of muscle relaxants and medications manufactured to reduce muscle spasms and pain. These over-the-counter muscle relaxants are often prescribed for musculoskeletal conditions and can be highly effective for muscle pain. Below we have mentioned a few of the best over-the-counter muscle relaxants that work wonders and help manage symptoms of muscle pain effectively.
How Muscle Relaxants Work
Muscle relaxants work by reducing the intensity of muscle contraction and giving relief to the central nervous system (CNS) directly. There are two main types of muscle relaxants:
Centrally Acting Muscle Relaxants: These work to decrease muscle spasm and pain by acting on the brain and spinal cord directly.
Examples: Cyclobenzaprine, Methocarbamol, Baclofen, Tizanidine.
They are usually prescribed for severe conditions like neck muscle pain, acute inflammation and spasm that provide serious discomfort.
Peripherally Acting Muscle Relaxants: These topical muscle relaxants are made to act directly on the muscle fibers.
Examples: Dantrolene (rarely used for general muscle pain, more for severe spasticity).
It is meant for special conditions, for example malignant hyperthermia.
Best Topical Muscle Relaxants in India
For targeted relief from muscle pain, topical muscle relaxants are often preferred because it has fewer side effects. Here are some of the best types of muscle relaxants available in the market.
1. ThioQuest gel
ThioQuest gel, is a highly powerful solution packed with ‘Phyto-actives’ (high-potency plant extracts) of Thiocolchicoside and ingredients like linseed oil, methyl salicylate, menthol and diclofenac. It is a proprietary Phyto-Advance technology of AlchemLife for superior efficacy.
Usage: It is a topical muscle relaxant for muscle pain treatment like, low back pain, neck muscle pain relief/ chronic neck aches/ cervical pain, back ache, cramps, frozen shoulder pain, muscle pain/ strain, ankle pain & frozen shoulder.
Application: Apply 3-4 times a day for muscle pain and spasms
2. Voltaren Gel
An anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that helps subside inflammation and muscle pain.
Usage: Extremely effective for muscle pain, especially when severe inflammation occurs.
Application: 2-4 times a day on the affected area.
3. Biofreeze
It contains menthol, which gives a cooling sensation that helps in distraction from pain and reduce muscle spasms.
Usage: Meant for severe muscle pain. It helps provide relief from muscle soreness or strain.
Application: It can be applied as many times in a day as needed.
4. Bengay
It comprises menthol and methyl salicylate, that is extremely effective in providing relief by producing a warming sensation and that helps in reducing muscle pain and inflammation.
Usage: Best for muscle and joint pain, also including sore muscles.
Application: Apply 3-4 times daily on the affected area.
5. Tiger Balm
It comprises camphor and menthol, that generates warming and cooling sensations to help effectively relieve muscle pain.
Usage: Helps to alleviate muscle pain and stiffness.
Application: Apply 2-3 times a day or as required.
Some Effective Muscle Relief Exercises
Now that we discussed some of the best topical muscle relaxants, here are a few muscle pain exercises that can help significantly in providing relief from muscle pain.
Neck Stretches:
- Side Stretch: Tilt your head towards your shoulder, be in the same direction for 15-30 seconds and then repeat the same process to the other side. It helps in stretching the neck muscles ultimately providing effective relief.
- Forward Stretch: Look downwards towards your feet and let your chin touch your chest and hold in this position for 15-30 seconds try to stretch the back of your neck gently.
Shoulder Shrugs:
Try to raise your shoulders and let your shoulders touch your ears and hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat the same process 10 to 15 times.
- Child’s Pose: Kneel on the floor, sit back on your heels, and stretch your arms forward, lowering your torso to the ground. Hold for 1-2 minutes.
- Hamstring Stretch: Stand straight and bend your back. Try to touch your toes without bending your knees. Hold for 15-30 seconds and then repeat.
Muscle Pain Treatment at Home
To promote proper healing, it’s crucial to manage muscle with precision. It involves a careful combination of remedy, rest and proper exercise. Below we have mentioned a few of the effective home treatments for muscle pain.
Hot and Cold Therapy:
Cold Packs: To reduce inflammation and sore muscles you can apply a cold pack to the affected area for the first 48-72 hours. It numbs the pain. Using it for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours can be highly beneficial.
Heat Therapy: Once the inflammation subsides, try to use a heating pad or warm compress to help relax the muscles and improve blood flow. It can also be applied for 15-20 minutes as many times as you require.
Ergonomics Improvement: If you’re someone who works using a computer or laptop a lot, try to ensure your workstation is set up in a way that allows you to work in a proper posture to avoid straining your back and neck muscles. Try to keep your monitor at eye level and get a chair that provides proper lumbar support.
Pillow Choice: A good pillow is extremely important while sleeping. Always try to use a supportive pillow that keeps your neck at proper rest while sleeping. Sleeping on your stomach can strain your neck, try to avoid that position.
Hydration and Nutrition: A balanced diet and fluid intake is also very important to recover faster. Try to eat a diet that is anti-inflammatory, for example Omega3 fatty food like fish, fruits and vegetables.
Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Yoga and meditation plays an important role in reducing stress and muscle tension. Try to include it in your daily routine for overall well being.
By adding these above practices and approaches, one can get significant neck pain relief. The common practices mentioned above can help improve the overall quality of life.
Conclusion
There are so many products available in the market for muscle pain relief. However, according to us, ThioQuest Gel stands out of the competition because of the relief it provides. Lastly, make sure you exercise and consult a doctor before starting to consume or apply any tablet or gel to avoid issues.
