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10 Best Arthritis Cream For Knees 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Biofreeze Professional Strength Pain Relief Roll-On, Arthritis Pain Reliver, Knee & Lower Back Pain Relief, Sore Muscle Relief, Neck Pain Relief, 2 Pack (3 FL OZ Biofreeze Menthol Roll-On)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,186
Application Method
Scent
Duration of Relief

Most important from
7009 reviews

Application Method
The roll-on feature is genius—no more greasy hands or accidental eye rubs, making it easy to use.
Scent
Biofreeze provides quick relief for minor muscle aches and pains without a strong smell.
Duration of Relief
The menthol sensation delivers the right kind of shiver, sending aches and pains into another dimension.

Biofreeze Professional Strength Pain Relief Roll-On is designed for individuals seeking relief from arthritis and other pain conditions in areas such as knees, lower back, and more. One of its standout features is the use of menthol as the active ingredient, which provides a cooling sensation that helps alleviate pain quickly.

The roll-on application method is convenient and hands-free, thanks to the massaging roller ball, making it easy to target specific areas without getting cream on your hands. It also absorbs rapidly into the skin, allowing for nearly instantaneous relief without a greasy residue, making it suitable for use throughout the day, even when on the go, as it is TSA-approved for travel.

For those sensitive to scents, it's worth noting that the menthol aroma is quite strong, which some users may find overwhelming. The product is non-systemic and free from NSAIDs and addictive substances, making it a safer alternative for regular use without the risk of systemic side effects. The duration of relief can vary, with some users experiencing only temporary alleviation of symptoms. Biofreeze Professional is particularly beneficial for those looking for a quick, non-messy, and portable pain relief solution, especially if they can tolerate a strong menthol scent.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,186
Application Method
Scent
Duration of Relief

Most important from
7009 reviews

Application Method
The roll-on feature is genius—no more greasy hands or accidental eye rubs, making it easy to use.
Scent
Biofreeze provides quick relief for minor muscle aches and pains without a strong smell.
Duration of Relief
The menthol sensation delivers the right kind of shiver, sending aches and pains into another dimension.
#2

Penetrex Joint & Muscle Therapy Trio – Soothing Relief for Back, Neck, Hands, Feet & Nerves – Maximum Strength Premium Whole Body Recovery Rub with Arnica, Vitamin B6 MSM & Boswellia – 2oz, 3oz, 4oz

Rating
9.8
Absorption Rate
Scent
Skin Sensitivity

Most important from
93136 reviews

Absorption Rate
Penetrex works well for back aches and pains, with a pleasant texture that absorbs quickly.
Scent
The mild scent is a plus, avoiding the strong odors typical of pain relief creams.
Skin Sensitivity
Those with allergies and sensitive skin should perform a patch test, though it generally has positive effects even for those with conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Penetrex Joint & Muscle Therapy Trio is designed to provide relief for various parts of the body, including knees, back, neck, hands, and feet. It uses a blend of natural ingredients like arnica, vitamin B6, MSM, and boswellia, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. This cream is non-greasy, non-sticky, and non-staining, which makes it convenient to use without worrying about residue. Additionally, it is paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or those who prefer ethical products.

The scent is mild, avoiding the strong odors that are often associated with other pain relief creams. Users are instructed to apply the cream 3-4 times daily for the first week to ten days, then continue as needed. This might be a bit frequent for those looking for a more low-maintenance option. The product's absorption rate is effective as it is designed to penetrate deeply to target discomfort at the source.

Penetrex can be used alone or in combination with other therapies like heating pads or ice packs, which can be beneficial for comprehensive pain management. The product is highly trusted with over 2 million users, indicating its effectiveness and reliability. However, it might be pricier compared to other options given its premium formulation and the suggested frequent application.

Rating
9.8
Absorption Rate
Scent
Skin Sensitivity

Most important from
93136 reviews

Absorption Rate
Penetrex works well for back aches and pains, with a pleasant texture that absorbs quickly.
Scent
The mild scent is a plus, avoiding the strong odors typical of pain relief creams.
Skin Sensitivity
Those with allergies and sensitive skin should perform a patch test, though it generally has positive effects even for those with conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
#3

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel for Powerful Topical Arthritis Pain Relief with Diclofenac - NEW Easy Open Cap - 100 g x 2

Rating
9.7
Duration of Relief

Most important from
56508 reviews

Duration of Relief
Initially skeptical, but by day 4, almost no pain compared to the constant burning I had.

Voltaren Arthritis Pain Gel is designed to provide powerful relief for arthritis pain, particularly in the knees. The gel contains a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) which helps in reducing inflammation and pain directly at the source, providing a more effective alternative to oral pain medications. It’s clinically proven to improve mobility and reduce stiffness when used consistently four times a day for at least a week.

The gel is non-greasy, has a clean scent, and is free from parabens and dyes, making it suitable for those with sensitive skin. The easy open cap is a thoughtful feature, especially useful for individuals with limited hand mobility due to arthritis. Each pack contains two 100g tubes, offering substantial quantity for frequent use.

Users need to be aware that the gel should not be applied to more than two joints simultaneously, and it may take up to seven days to see significant pain relief. Those looking for a quick fix might find this a drawback. Additionally, consistent application is necessary to maintain pain relief. Despite these points, Voltaren is highly recommended by doctors and is eligible for HSA and FSA, which adds to its accessibility and convenience.

Rating
9.7
Duration of Relief

Most important from
56508 reviews

Duration of Relief
Initially skeptical, but by day 4, almost no pain compared to the constant burning I had.

Buying Guide for the Best Arthritis Cream For Knees

When choosing an arthritis cream for your knees, it's important to consider several factors to ensure you get the most effective relief for your specific needs. Arthritis creams can help reduce pain and inflammation, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. To make an informed decision, you should understand the key specifications and how they relate to your condition and preferences.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in arthritis creams are the components that provide pain relief and reduce inflammation. Common active ingredients include menthol, capsaicin, salicylates, and NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Menthol provides a cooling sensation, capsaicin creates a warming effect, salicylates reduce inflammation, and NSAIDs help with pain and swelling. Choose an active ingredient based on your preference for cooling or warming sensations and the type of pain relief you need.
Application MethodArthritis creams can come in various forms such as gels, lotions, roll-ons, and patches. Gels and lotions are easy to apply and absorb quickly, while roll-ons offer a mess-free application. Patches provide continuous relief over a longer period. Consider your lifestyle and convenience when choosing the application method. For example, if you need relief throughout the day, a patch might be more suitable, whereas a gel or lotion could be better for quick application.
Absorption RateThe absorption rate of an arthritis cream determines how quickly it penetrates the skin and starts providing relief. Fast-absorbing creams are ideal for quick pain relief, while slower-absorbing options may offer longer-lasting effects. If you need immediate relief, look for a cream with a high absorption rate. For sustained relief, a slower-absorbing cream might be more beneficial.
ScentThe scent of an arthritis cream can be an important factor, especially if you are sensitive to strong smells or plan to use the cream in public settings. Some creams have a strong medicinal odor, while others are unscented or have a mild fragrance. If you are sensitive to smells or prefer a more discreet option, choose an unscented or lightly scented cream.
Skin SensitivityIf you have sensitive skin, it's crucial to choose an arthritis cream that is gentle and hypoallergenic. Some creams contain additional ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin to avoid any adverse reactions. Testing a small amount on your skin before full application can also help ensure compatibility.
Duration of ReliefThe duration of relief provided by an arthritis cream can vary. Some creams offer short-term relief for a few hours, while others provide longer-lasting effects. Consider how often you are willing or able to reapply the cream. If you need continuous relief throughout the day, look for a product that offers extended relief. For occasional pain, a shorter-duration cream might suffice.

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