Pain Patches for Back Pain: Top Choices for Relief
UpdatedNovember 13, 2024
Back pain can be a debilitating and frustrating condition that affects a significant portion of the population. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), lower back pain was a major concern for 619 million people worldwide in 2020. It's predicted to escalate to a worrying 843 million cases by 2050, mainly due to population growth and aging.
This debilitating and frustrating condition can stem from various factors, including injury, muscle strain, or chronic conditions. The persistent aches and discomfort can lead to restlessness, irritability, and a general sense of agitation.
Fortunately, various topical pain relief solutions are available, including pain patches for back discomfort. These innovative products offer a convenient and targeted approach to managing back pain, providing relief directly at the source of discomfort. By utilizing a combination of active ingredients such as menthol, lidocaine, or capsaicin, these pain patches for back pain can produce cooling, warming, or numbing sensations that help alleviate muscle soreness, joint aches, and other types of back pain.
Types of Pain Patches for Back Pain
Pain patches are a transdermal delivery system that delivers medications directly through the skin to manage pain. They have evolved from historical topical therapies to modern-day transdermal patches, benefiting from skin science and technology advancements. These patches offer a convenient and potentially more effective alternative to traditional oral medications for pain relief.
There are several types of pain patches for back pain relief available:
- Methyl salicylate-Menthol patches
- Lidocaine patches
- Capsaicin patches
- Diclofenac epolamine patches
Methyl salicylate-Menthol Patches
The active ingredient in menthol patches is peppermint, while methyl salicylate is derived from wintergreen plants. The methyl salicylate-menthol patch treats minor aches and pains of muscles and joints, including back pain.
It creates a cooling and warming sensation on the skin, which helps distract from the deeper pain in muscles and joints. Side effects can include mild redness or irritation at the application site. To prevent adverse effects, it is important to avoid applying heat to the patch area and follow usage instructions.
A study investigated the effectiveness of a patch containing 10% methyl salicylate and 3% l-menthol in alleviating mild to moderate muscle strain in adults compared to a placebo patch. Results showed that patients using the active patch experienced significantly greater pain relief, approximately 40%, compared to those using the placebo patch.
This underscores the potential of a single 8-hour application of the methyl salicylate and l-menthol patch to offer substantial pain alleviation for individuals grappling with mild to moderate muscle strain in the back.
Lidocaine Patches
Lidocaine is a numbing agent put in patches, both prescription and over-the-counter. It effectively relieves back pain by stopping nerves from sending pain signals.
Prescription patches are used once a day for up to 12 hours and are particularly beneficial for more severe pain like post-herpetic neuralgia. Over-the-counter patches can be used up to three times daily for minor pain. The patches offer localized pain relief with minimal systemic side effects, making them a safe and effective option for managing back pain.
A study was conducted demonstrating the effectiveness of the lidocaine patch 5% in reducing pain intensity across various pain qualities in patients with chronic pain, including neuropathic and non-neuropathic conditions such as low-back pain, osteoarthritis, post-herpetic neuralgia, and painful diabetic neuropathy.
The research utilizes the Neuropathic Pain Scale (NPS) to assess pain qualities. It shows significant reductions in pain intensity for patients treated with the lidocaine patch. This suggests that the lidocaine patch 5% is effective in managing chronic pain of both neuropathic and non-neuropathic origins, highlighting its potential as a treatment option for patients with diverse pain profiles.
Capsaicin Patches
Capsaicin patches, available over-the-counter (e.g., Aspercreme Warming, Salonpas Pain Relieving Hot) and by prescription, are effective in relieving back pain, arthritis pain, muscle strains, bruises, cramps, and sprains.
Capsaicin, derived from chili peppers, affects pain-associated nerve cells in the skin, reducing their activity and pain sensation. Prescription patches, used for more severe conditions like postherpetic neuralgia and diabetic neuropathy, are applied by healthcare professionals, while over-the-counter patches are for minor pain and can be self-applied. Both offer significant pain relief with proper use and minimal side effects.
One study evaluated the effectiveness of the capsaicin 8% patch in treating lumbosacral pain, characterized by symptoms such as low back pain, leg pain, lower extremity numbness, and its impact on a patient's quality of life.
Results showed a significant reduction in pain intensity as measured by the visual analog scale (VAS) at 2 weeks post-administration, with continued improvement at 8 and 12 weeks. Additionally, patients experienced significant improvements in all dimensions of quality of life assessed by the EQ-5D questionnaire.
These findings suggest that the capsaicin 8% patch provides significant relief for neuropathic pain and enhances the overall quality of life for individuals with lumbosacral neuropathic pain.
Diclofenac Epolamine Patches
Diclofenac epolamine is a prescription pain patch containing a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID).
A study examined the effectiveness and safety of diclofenac epolamine topical patch 1.3% (DETP) for acute back strain pain. Results demonstrated a significant reduction in pain intensity at the end of treatment. Patients also reported improvements in least, worst, and current pain scores.
Patients and investigators had high Satisfaction with DETP treatment, with 88% expressing satisfaction. Most patients and investigators rated global pain relief as moderate to complete. Adverse events were generally mild to moderate, with only a few considered treatment-related.
The study suggests that DETP provides well-tolerated relief for acute back strain pain, with high patient and investigator satisfaction levels.
Heat Patches
Heat patches leverage heat to increase blood flow, relax muscles, and reduce stiffness. These self-adhesive patches can be easily applied to the affected area, providing a non-invasive and drug-free option for pain relief. They work by emitting low-level heat over several hours, penetrating the skin and warms the muscles, thus helping to alleviate muscle spasms and enhance mobility. This makes them particularly beneficial for conditions like chronic lower back pain or muscle tension resulting from poor posture or strenuous activity.
Research indicates that heat therapy, in general, is effective for pain management and can provide significant relief for mild to moderate back pain. When heat patches are combined with other treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or capsaicin, the pain relief can be more pronounced.
However, the overall difference in pain relief among the different treatment combinations was not statistically significant. This indicates that while heat patches are effective, their combination with other treatments requires further research to confirm any additional benefits conclusively. Nonetheless, the convenience and effectiveness of heat patches make them a popular choice for individuals seeking immediate and localized pain relief.
Best Pain Patches for Back Pain
We have researched the Top 10 Pain Patches for Back Pain and selected them based on their effectiveness, ease of use, and user reviews. These topical pain relief solutions offer targeted and convenient remedies for various types of back pain.
Many pain patches employ active ingredients like menthol, camphor, lidocaine, or capsaicin to provide cooling, warming, or numbing sensations that help alleviate discomfort. Some utilize heat therapy to promote muscle relaxation and improved circulation, while others rely on drug-free formulations for those seeking non-medicated alternatives.
Salonpas Pain Relieving Patch offers a convenient and effective solution for joint and muscle pain patients. Each box contains 60 patches measuring 2.83 inches by 1.81 inches, designed to relieve up to 8 hours of pain. The patches are formulated with three active analgesic ingredients: camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate, which work together to alleviate pain at its source.
Salonpas patches are known for their ease of application, flexibility, and ability to stay in place even during movement, making them a practical choice for pain management throughout the day.
Pros
- The combination of camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate provides strong and targeted pain relief for various types of muscle and joint pain.
- Each patch offers up to 8 hours of continuous relief, making it suitable for extended pain management.
- The patches are simple to apply and remove, with rounded corners and a flexible fabric that adheres well to the skin without causing discomfort.
- Suitable for use on various parts of the body, including the back, neck, shoulders, knees, and elbows, making it a versatile option for different types of pain.
- The compact size of the patches makes them easy to carry around, ensuring that relief is always within reach when needed.
Cons
- The patches have a strong menthol smell, which some users may find overpowering.
- Prolonged use can sometimes cause skin irritation or a burning sensation, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
- In some cases, the patches may not stick well to the skin, especially if applied on areas that experience a lot of movement or sweating.
- The small size of the patches may not be adequate for covering larger areas of pain, requiring the use of multiple patches for effective relief.
Tiger Balm Pain Relieving Patch is a practical solution for alleviating muscle and joint pain. Each pack contains five patches, and the bundle includes six packs, ensuring ample supply for ongoing pain management. These patches combine the analgesic effects of camphor, menthol, and capsicum extract to deliver targeted, long-lasting relief.
Known for their effectiveness, Tiger Balm patches provide a warming sensation that helps to relax and soothe sore muscles. They are designed for easy application and removal, offering a mess-free alternative to traditional pain relief creams and ointments.
Pros
- Combining camphor, menthol, and capsicum extract provides potent and targeted muscle and joint pain relief.
- Each patch offers pain relief for up to 8 hours, making them ideal for extended pain management.
- The patches are simple to apply and remove, with a pull-and-peel protective film and flexible design that conforms to the body.
- It suits various body parts, including the shoulders, neck, lower back, upper back, calves, and thighs.
- Unlike creams or gels, the patches do not leave any residue, making them convenient and clean.
Cons
- The patches have a noticeable menthol smell that some users may find overpowering.
- The adhesive may not be strong enough for some users, especially if applied to areas that move a lot or if the skin is sweaty.
- Some users may experience skin irritation or a burning sensation, particularly if the patch is worn for extended periods.
- The patches may be too small for larger areas of pain, requiring multiple patches for effective coverage.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Patches are highly recommended for individuals seeking effective and long-lasting pain relief. These patches are designed to deliver up to 8 hours of cooling menthol therapy directly to the site of pain. The patches use flexible fabric that adapts to the body’s movements, providing both comfort and superior performance.
Biofreeze, a brand trusted by pharmacists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and athletic trainers, offers a mess-free, easy-to-apply pain relief solution. Each box contains five individually wrapped patches, ensuring convenience and maintaining the product's integrity until use.
Pros
- Biofreeze patches contain menthol, which provides a cooling effect that penetrates deep into the muscles and joints to relieve pain.
- Each patch offers up to 8 hours of continuous pain relief, making it ideal for extended use.
- The patches are made from a flexible fabric that moves with the body, ensuring comfort and consistent application.
- These patches offer a convenient, mess-free alternative to gels and creams, making them easy to use and remove without leaving residue.
- Biofreeze is a clinically recommended brand known for its effective pain relief solutions, and healthcare professionals trust it.
Cons
- The menthol in the patches emits a strong odor, which some users may find overpowering.
- In some cases, the patches may not adhere well to the skin, particularly in areas that experience a lot of movement or sweating.
- Prolonged use can sometimes cause skin irritation or a burning sensation, especially for sensitive skin.
- The patches may be too small for larger areas of pain, requiring the use of multiple patches for adequate coverage.
Icy Hot Extra Strength Medicated Patch offers a practical and effective solution for those experiencing muscle and joint pain. These patches are designed to provide targeted relief for backaches, arthritis, strains, sprains, and bruises. Each box contains three extra-large patches that can be worn for up to eight hours.
The dual-action formula provides an icy sensation to dull the pain, followed by a warming effect to relax it away. Menthol provides the cooling sensation, while methyl salicylate produces the warming effect.
Icy Hot patches are easy to apply, stay securely in place, and are mess-free, making them a convenient option for pain management throughout the day.
Pros
- The patches offer fast-acting relief from minor pains associated with backache, arthritis, strains, sprains, and bruises.
- Each patch provides up to 8 hours of continuous pain relief, ensuring sustained comfort.
- Combining an icy sensation to numb the pain and a warming effect to relax muscles helps to provide comprehensive pain management.
- The patches are simple to apply and stay in place, providing a mess-free solution without the need for creams or gels.
- The extra-large size of the patches makes them suitable for covering large body areas, such as the back or shoulders.
Cons
- The menthol in the patches has a noticeable smell, which some users may find overpowering.
- The patches may sometimes not stick well, especially if applied to areas that move frequently or if the skin is not dry.
- Some users might find the warming sensation too intense, which can cause discomfort, especially on hot days or if the patch is worn for extended periods.
- Application of the patches to certain body areas, such as the back, might require assistance to ensure proper placement and adhesion.
ThermaCare Advanced Back Therapy HeatWraps provide targeted, long-lasting relief for lower back and hip pain. These disposable heat therapy patches are designed to fit comfortably around the waist and offer up to 16 hours of continuous heat, with 8 hours of active heating followed by an additional 8 hours of residual relief.
The heat wraps are ideal for alleviating pain from muscle strains, sprains, and herniated discs. The patented heat cells in the wraps penetrate deep into the tissue to relax, soothe, and unlock tight muscles, promoting better circulation and faster healing. ThermaCare HeatWraps are easy to apply, thin enough to be worn discreetly and adapt to your movements, providing a convenient and effective solution for managing pain on the go.
Pros
- Provides up to 16 hours of pain relief, including 8 hours of active heating and an additional 8 hours of residual comfort.
- Patented heat cells penetrate deep into muscle tissue, helping to relax and soothe tight muscles while improving circulation.
- The wraps are easy to apply and stay securely in place, making them suitable for use during daily activities.
- Designed specifically for the lower back and hip area, the wraps feature enhanced elasticity for a better fit and can accommodate waists from 35” to 47”.
- It is thin enough to be worn discreetly under clothing, allowing for pain management without drawing attention.
Cons
- Some users may find the heat too intense, which can cause discomfort, particularly if worn for extended periods.
- In certain cases, the wraps may not adhere well to the skin, especially if applied incorrectly or the user is very active.
- Prolonged use or direct contact with the skin, especially for those over 55, can cause skin irritation or burns. For those with sensitive skin, it is recommended to use the wrap over clothing.
Aspercreme Max Strength Lidocaine Pain Relief Patches offer a powerful solution for managing back pain and other sore muscles. Each patch contains 4% lidocaine, the maximum strength available without a prescription, designed to numb pain by targeting pain receptors directly. The patches are odor-free, making them discreet for use throughout the day.
Easy to apply, these patches provide up to 12 hours of continuous relief, allowing users to maintain their daily activities without the distraction of persistent pain. Aspercreme's formula ensures fast-acting relief, making it a trusted choice for those seeking an effective and convenient pain management solution.
Pros
- Contains 4% lidocaine, providing potent pain relief by numbing the affected area.
- Quickly targets pain receptors for immediate relief, making it suitable for sudden flare-ups.
- Each patch delivers up to 12 hours of continuous pain relief, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
- The patches have no scent, ensuring discreet use in any setting.
- Simple application process with flexible fabric that stays in place, adapting to movements for consistent relief.
Cons
- Some users report that the patches may not adhere well, especially with extensive movement, requiring reinforcement with additional tape.
- While generally safe, prolonged use or application on sensitive skin may cause irritation or discomfort.
Cura-Heat Heat Therapy Patches provide a convenient and effective solution for relieving neck, shoulder, and back pain. These air-activated patches are designed to offer targeted heat therapy, which helps to soothe sore muscles and alleviate discomfort. Each value pack contains seven patches, ensuring ample supply for extended use.
The patches are easy to apply and can be worn discreetly under clothing, making them suitable for use throughout the day. With long-lasting heat, these patches are ideal for those seeking a non-medicinal approach to pain management.
Pros
- It has air-activated heat, which provides immediate and continuous warmth, effectively soothing sore muscles and alleviating pain.
- They are simple to apply and can be worn discreetly under clothing, making them convenient for daily use.
- Each patch delivers consistent heat for several hours, relieving prolonged pain.
- Suitable for the neck, shoulder, and back, offering versatile pain relief options.
- Comes with seven patches, providing an economical solution for ongoing pain management.
Cons
- Some users report that the patches may stick poorly, especially with extensive movement, requiring frequent adjustments.
- The heat generated may not be sufficient for all users, particularly those with severe pain.
- The patches are designed to be applied over clothing rather than directly on the skin, which can reduce the effectiveness of heat transfer.
- A few users mention a strong menthol scent, which may only be desirable for some.
Backaid Heat Therapy Patches provides a comprehensive solution for back and hip pain patients. These air-activated, odorless patches are designed to deliver up to 16 hours of targeted pain relief, with eight hours of continuous heat while worn and an additional eight hours of residual relief after removal. Their ultra-thin design allows for discreet application under clothing without hindering movement, making them ideal for on-the-go use.
The patches are non-medicated and free from common analgesic ingredients such as lidocaine, menthol, or methyl salicylate, which makes them suitable for individuals seeking a drug-free alternative for pain management.
Pros
- Provides up to 16 hours of relief, with eight hours of heat and an additional eight hours of residual pain alleviation.
- Free from lidocaine, menthol, and methyl salicylate, making it a suitable option for those seeking a drug-free pain relief method.
- The ultra-thin design allows the patches to be worn under clothing without noticeable or restricting movement.
- Air-activated patches are simple to apply and portable, ideal for use at home or on the go.
- The patches are free from strong smells, ensuring discreet pain relief without noticeable scents.
Cons
- Some users report that the patches do not adhere well to clothing, leading to frequent adjustments or falling off.
- The heat generated may not be sufficient for individuals with severe pain, as it is designed to provide moderate warmth.
- The patches should not be applied directly to the skin in individuals 55 and older, which might reduce their effectiveness for some users.
- The patches can take up to 30 minutes to reach optimal heat, which may be inconvenient for those needing immediate relief.
The CARELIVING 4% Lidocaine Pain Relief Patch provides a convenient and effective solution for managing pain. These patches are designed to deliver maximum strength pain relief without needing a prescription, making them accessible to anyone experiencing muscle soreness, joint aches, or back pain.
Each patch measures 3.9" x 5.5", ensuring ample coverage for larger areas of discomfort. The patches desensitize nerves with 4% lidocaine, offering up to 8 hours of targeted relief. The patches are individually packed, making them easy to use and portable, perfect for on-the-go pain management.
Pros
- Contains 4% lidocaine, providing maximum strength pain relief by numbing the area of application.
- Each patch offers up to 8 hours of continuous relief, making it suitable for prolonged pain management.
- The large 3.9" x 5.5" patches can cover substantial areas and can be cut to fit smaller, more specific areas of pain.
- Individually packaged, making them easy to carry and use whenever needed.
- Unlike many topical pain relievers, these patches are odor-free, providing discreet pain management.
- The patches adhere well to the skin, even during activities, ensuring they stay in place for the duration of their use.
Cons
- Some users may experience skin irritation or a cooling sensation upon application, which might be uncomfortable for sensitive skin.
- Not recommended for individuals with certain skin conditions or allergies to lidocaine.
- In some cases, especially with heavy sweating or extended use, the adhesion might weaken, causing the patch to peel off.
The WellPatch Warming Pain Relief Heat Patch offers a convenient and effective solution for alleviating minor muscle and joint aches, pains, and stiffness. Each package contains four large patches measuring 5"x4", designed to be worn discreetly under clothing. The patches are drug- and odor-free, making them suitable for use throughout the day without discomfort.
The heat the patch generates helps to soothe sore muscles and joints, providing long-lasting relief. Whether you're dealing with back pain, arthritis, or general muscle stiffness, these patches offer a reliable option for pain management.
Pros
- Provides drug-free, long-lasting pain relief for muscles and joints.
- Comfortable adhesion ensures the patch stays in place during daily activities.
- The odor-free design allows discreet use under clothing.
- Easy to apply directly to the skin.
- Suitable for various types of pain, including back pain, arthritis, and muscle stiffness.
Cons
- May cause skin irritation or burns if used improperly or for extended periods.
- Some users may find the heat level insufficient for severe pain.
- Adhesion may weaken with movement or sweat.
- Not recommended for use while sleeping due to potential skin burns.
Final Words
Among the diverse range of pain patches for back pain relief, one product that stands out is the ThermaCare Advanced Back Therapy HeatWraps. These disposable heat therapy patches offer a comprehensive solution for those seeking long-lasting lower back and hip pain relief.
What sets the ThermaCare HeatWraps apart is their ability to provide up to 16 hours of continuous heat therapy, with 8 hours of active heating followed by an additional 8 hours of residual relief. The patented heat cells penetrate deep into the muscle tissue, helping to relax, soothe, and unlock tight muscles while promoting better circulation and faster healing.
The wraps are designed specifically for the lower back and hip area, featuring enhanced elasticity for a better fit and accommodating waists from 35" to 47". They are easy to apply, thin enough to be worn discreetly under clothing and adapt to your movements, making them a convenient and effective solution for managing pain on the go.
FAQs about Pain Patches for Back Pain
Are pain relief patches safe for pregnant women?
Pain relief patches are generally safe when used as directed. However, certain ingredients in pain patches may not be recommended during pregnancy. Always check with your doctor to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Can Salonpas® Pain Relief Patch LARGE be taken along with oral pain relief products?
Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this product. The chance of a stomach bleed is small but higher if you take other drugs containing an NSAID (aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or others). Consult a doctor if you are taking a diuretic. Only one patch may be used at a time.
Can I use a pain relief patch if I have sensitive skin?
Many pain relief patches are designed to be gentle on the skin, but some people with particularly sensitive skin might experience irritation. If you have sensitive skin, testing a small patch first is advisable to see how your skin reacts.
References
- Pastore, M. N., Kalia, Y. N., Horstmann, M., & Roberts, M. S. (2015). Transdermal patches: history, development and pharmacology. British journal of pharmacology, 172(9), 2179–2209. https://doi.org/10.1111/bph.13059
- Higashi, Y., Kiuchi, T., & Furuta, K. (2010). Efficacy and safety profile of a topical methyl salicylate and menthol patch in adult patients with mild to moderate muscle strain: a randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled, multicenter study. Clinical therapeutics, 32(1), 34–43. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clinthera.2010.01.016
- Argoff, C. E. (2004). Conclusions: chronic pain studies of lidocaine patch 5% using the Neuropathic Pain Scale. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 20(sup2), S29–S31. https://doi.org/10.1185/030079904X12979
- Zis, P., Bernali, N., Argira, E., Siafaka, I., & Vadalouka, A. (2016). Effectiveness and Impact of Capsaicin 8% Patch on Quality of Life in Patients with Lumbosacral Pain: An Open-label Study. Pain physician, 19(7), E1049–E1053. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27676676/
- Gimbel, J., Jacobs, D., Pixton, G., & Paterson, C. (2011). Effectiveness and safety of diclofenac epolamine topical patch 1.3% for the treatment of acute pain due to back strain: An open-label, uncontrolled study. Physician and Sportsmedicine, 39(1), 11-18. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21378482/.