Capsaicin

I like analgesic creams and rubs that soothe muscle and joint pain when rubbed on the body. I like the menthol or eucalyptus smell, and I like the heat generated by the rub.  I have also discovered rubs that have capsaicin as the active ingredient.  I like the way these rubs work, too. Capsaicin is the chemical that produces heat in hot peppers.

Years ago, I bought a box of Capzasin patches for my back, and brought them to work, to use if I had back pain at work. The patches were thin, and did not smell of menthol, so were suitable for the work setting. I can not longer bring patches in like that, but I can wear one into work, if I wake up with back pain.

I have looked, for years for more patches by Capzasin, but could not find them. I have used various types of back patches:  I used to use ThermaCare, but while the patches work, they are held on the back with a cumbersome belt, and the patches themselves are a little bulky.  I used IcyHot, and like the patches: they are thin, use an adhesive to hold the patch in place, but have a menthol or eucalyptus odor.  I dislike pulling the patch off, but if I time it right, I leave the patch on until I take a shower, and let the water remove the adhesive.

I have tried the Tylenol Precise patches. They are okay, but I prefer the IcyHot patches.  Just recently, I was in the market to purchase back patches.  If I have a coupon, I use it.  But, I did not have a coupon when I was going to buy patches.  I saw Capsaicin patches, sold in individual pouches for $.97 per patch, which is less expensive that if they are sold for $5 in a box of 4. And, other brands are even more expensive than that. So, I purchased a couple to try them out.  These patches are attached by adhesive.  They have no odor, and are thin.

When I used the Capsaicin patch the first time,  the relief was immediate. Not only that, but the relief continued after I removed the patch, even after I took a shower.  I  am sold!

When I am just sitting, at the computer, reading, or watching TV, I use a heating pad. But, I do not use a heating pad if I have a heat patch on my back.   The heating pad helps, but it is not as portable as the heat patch.  I have discovered if I am going to do serious work that might hurt my back, a dose of medication and a heat patch makes the work much more tolerable.  This has been a blessing, as I enjoy doing yard work, but my back becomes sore very easily these days.  This has been a good discovery.