How well do topical products work?

Many people say topical products help relieve their arthritis pain. But research doesn't always show that they work well.

Compared with other products, topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have more studies that show they work and are safe. The other products only work a little better or no better than the controls, called placebos, that are used in studies. Capsaicin might work better when used with other treatments, such as oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.