Creams and gels???

[Constance13]

Anyone come across a cream/gel that really works on OA? I’ve got my PMR under control and don’t like taking tablets for the OA. I’ve tried loads of them, but not really come across one that has really helped.😏

[Marymon]

Hi Constance, I used ‘Deep Freeze,’ by Mentholatum Co. East Kilbride, sold here UK, in most stores, although I know you are in Germany. Found it was the only one that worked on arthritic knees, before I had the ops, now using it on PMR hip and shoulder. It does have effect after about 15mins. It works just by freezing, obviously no help in the long term.

But is a saviour when having to go out. I use Hottie heat cushion, Amazon, on my back when sitting at home.

[Constance13 in reply to Marymon]

Thank you!😀 I think there is something similar over here. I’ll look it up and give it a try.

[peace_lover]

Hi, I’ve been using Flexiseq Osteoarthritis on my knees with really good results. My swellings have been significantly reduced and also the pain. It doesn’t make the OA go away but has been so successful I don’t consider my knees too much of a problem now, whereas before PMR had taken a toll on already dodgy knees. It works on my hands too. Not sure about hips though, I haven’t tried it.

It’s really expensive (around £17 for small tube) but sometimes on EBay you can get it for around £14 post free. It’s best to shop around. It’s not available on NHS prescription 🙁

Heaven knows how it works, but it did on me!

[Constance13 in reply to peace_lover]

Have tried Flexiseq. It does do the job relatively well but it is very expensive in the long run and the small tubes don’t last very long😏

[peace_lover in reply to Constance13]

Yes I agree. There is a Sport or Active one that is twice as big and a bit cheaper, but apparently it’s not as strong. So if you end up using twice as much there’s not much point! I have found that after a week I only need to apply it once daily, so have cut down that way.

[jinasc in reply to Constance13]

Constance

It can be cheaper on the ARC site, but I don't know if you can buy it when out of UK.

I use it once a day as well. The length of your index finger is the measure to use..........are you using more?

xxxxx

[Constance13 in reply to jinasc]

Thanks jinasc! The trouble is I need it on my ankles, knees, wrists and fingers. That’s a lot of cream.😏 I’ve not seen how far a tube would go, but I imagine it would costs me more than €100 a month. That’s a lot of money! Practically all my pocket money just on cream.😂😂

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Constance13]

Is it available on prescription yet in Germany? Worth asking as the company is trying to get it covered for certain groups.

And "Topical capsaicin cream can be considered in addition to core treatments for knee or hand osteoarthritis" - my German massage therapist used that 30-odd years ago.

[Constance13 in reply to PMRpro]

Would you recommend the capsaicin cream then? Is it very ‘fierce’?

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Constance13]

Don't get it anywhere near eyes or other delicate places! I found it pleasantly warming. I suppose you could mix a bit with another cream to reduce the concentration if it was too hot for you. Maybe it comes in different strengths - ask the Apotheke...

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi,

I’ve tried most, from pharmacy's own brand ibruprofen gel ( not too regularly if on Pred) to Flexiseq with very limited succcess.

It might sound stupid but I think it depends on how and where your arthritis is!

My knee was bone on bone - as is my hip, so very little helps; however it seems to work better on shoulder!

Deep Freeze does help sometimes, but the good old fashioned hot water bottle is as good as anything.

You can very often buy branded products cheaper on Amazon- especially if you can get them postage free!

[Constance13 in reply to DorsetLady]

Might yet stick to the good old water bottle!!😀😀

[venezia1]

Hi - I use Fenbid Gel, which I get on prescription so free...it is actaully Ibuprofen but I can't take the tablets as they upset my stomach. My main problem with O/A is in my hands, one of which is quite deformed now, and the pain is pretty unremitting, but the gel is really helpful at night and lets me get to sleep.

[Valnvaughan]

Hi

I am using Capsaicin 0.025% cream prescribed by my GP. Works very well for me. It is based on peppers, makes skin feel warm. Must wash hands very thoroughly after use as ' lingers' if you rub your face, you will know. It is made of natural substance so feel better about using on top of ally meds. Valerie