Fastum Gel Superior to U.S. Over-the-Counter Icy Hot

This article compares various over-the-counter topical products used to relieve pain in the joints, tendons and muscles. I have used these products over the past year due to a leg injury and find that the German made product, Fastum Gel is effective. Fastum Gel relieves pain in the muscles and tendons and the best part is that it quickly absorbs into the skin without the smell associated with other products. Most products on the market leave a camphor type smell on your hands and the effected area. Fastum Gel is odorless.

Comparisons:

Icy Hot:

Icy Hot is sold over-the- counter in most U.S. drug stores. The product has an immediate sensation on the skin. The fragrance is light camphor. The immediate sensation subsides and there is a minor amount of relief from aches and pains of the muscles. It does seem to provide some relief, but after an hour or so, there is no effect. It is sold in tubes or in packs and widely advertised. The price is reasonable.

BIOFREEZE:

BIOFREEZE is sold in most health food stores and many chiropractors and physical therapists use the product. It is grease-less, stainless and the scent vanishes over a few minutes. The product advertises it as cryotherapy-the cold method. The active ingredient is menthol. The product does go on cold. It seems to provide some relief for a few minutes, but the product does not really provide pain relief or relieve spasms or muscle pain for any noticeable period. It sells for $8.

Wal-Mart Equate Ultra Strength Muscle Rub:

This product is sold exclusively by Wal-Mart. The price is very cheap. It does have a camphor smell. The product is white in appearance. It does provide a sensation on the skin and if used with a heating pad appears to give some form of relief from pain. The active ingredients are camphor, menthol, and Methyl salicylate. It does not have long term effects in terms of reducing inflammation which causes the pain. The pain relief is short term and possibly outweighed by the sensation of the menthol rather than providing any systemic pain relief.

Fastum Gel:

Fastum Gel sold in U.S. Home Apteka

Credit: Berline Chemie Germany

Copyright: Berline Chemine Germany