Are topical ointments effective in deep heating injured tissue?
A number of topical ointments are available on the market and advertised as products to help relieve pain. Oftentimes, the products are also advertised as effective methods of heating underlying tissue. UNFORTUNATELY, THIS IS A MYTH as most of the products only contain skin irritants and are not capable of actually increasing the temperature of tissue. The ointment irritates the nerve endings under the skin and only masks the underlying pain. The problem with products that “mask” pain is that pain is usually an indicator that something is wrong in the body and that the individual needs to stop the activity. Covering up the pain and continuing to exercise may actually put the athlete at risk for further injury. The benefit that athletes may gain from topical ointments may actually come from the associated massage that accompanies the application of the ointment. The massage of the tissue may increase circulation to the area while the ointment overrides the sensation of pain. If you susp
