If you’re suffering from cream for tendon pain, the first thing you need to do is rest. Avoid activities that aggravate the injury and try to reduce inflammation by using ice, compression and elevation. These self-care treatments will help speed recovery and prevent a return of symptoms, says Robert Parisien, MD, orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Mount Sinai and team physician for the US Ski & Snowboard and Fencing Olympic teams.

If over-the-counter (OTC) treatment doesn’t provide relief, an evaluation by a physical therapist may be in order. “Physical therapy helps reduce the pain by identifying muscle imbalances and strengthening exercises that help support healthy tendons,” says Arianne Missimer, DPT, CSCS, founder and CEO of The Movement Paradigm in New York City. “A topical anti-inflammatory cream is also very effective,” she adds, recommending brands like Penetrex (view at Amazon).

Easing the Strain: Choosing the Right Cream for Tendon Pain Relief

Different creams contain a variety of active ingredients to address pain and discomfort: Menthol, capsaicin and Diclofenac are popular choices for reducing inflammation and numbing the area; other common ones include Lidocaine and Methyl salicylate. Be sure to read labels carefully to find the best product for your condition and always ask a doctor before trying anything new.

Another option is to try red-light therapy, which promotes healing and has been shown to improve tendon health in animal studies, she adds. You can book sessions at wellness clinics or purchase smaller, at-home units like the MitoPro 300 for less than $100.