Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel > Reviews (4)

As a chiropractor I come across all sorts of different lotions and potions claiming to be the new wonder lotion for muscle and joint pain. I work with both acute and chronic pain patients and so see the instant and long term effects of different treatments. Each patient is different and no two patients respond to a treatment the same.
I first used biofreeze a few years ago as a substitute for regular massage oil on a patient who had chronic trapezius tightness and spasm. These spasms were caused by an underlying problem with the cervical spine and this was my primary focus yet symptom relief and temporary reduction in pain can make a difference to a patients daily life until the primary causative complaint has been resolved.

Product;
The product comes in a range of shapes and sizes in a white bottle with green writing some with a pump;
82g Roll-On
110g Tube (Gel)
452g Bottle (Gel)
904g Bottle (Gel)
118ml Spray
473ml Spray
Biofreeze is a topical 'pain relieving gel' which is applied directly to the skin via massage. It works using the principle of cryotherapy (cold treatment) which helps the reduce inflammation and temporarily reduce the pain sensation.
The product contains the herb ILEX, specifically Ilex paraguariensis species. It also contains menthol which has local anaesthetic and counterirritant qualities and camphor which has analgesic properties when applied topically. These two ingredients also give the product its strong smell.
The gel is thick and bright green and has an extremely pungent smell similar to vicks chest rub. The gel thins out when warmed in the hands and leaves a thin film of the product on the skin so continues working. When applied to the skin there is an instant feeling of cold. The gel takes a few minutes to begin working and stays cold for a good few hours (you will notice this especially if there is a breeze on an exposed area of skin!)

Uses;
Biofreeze.co.uk states:
"Biofreeze Cool Gel & Roll-on is ideal for the relief of muscle aches and joint discomfort associated typically with minor backache, tendonitis muscle over-use, strains/stress and sports injuries; Biofreeze can also help to relieve pain caused by Arthritis and Neuropathy".
The website also goes on to list sore muscles, back, shoulder and neck pain and painful ankle, knee, hip and elbow joints.

Directions;
Taken straight from the bottle: " Adults and children 2 years of age and older: Applu to the affected area not more than 3-4 times daily. Children under 2 years of age: consult physician. Consult your physician before use if you are pregnant or nursing or have sensitive skin. Rub a thin film over desired are of the body, massage not necessary. Rinse hands with cool water".

Warnings;
Taken straight from the bottle: "Use only as directed. For external use only. In case of accidental ingestion seek professional assistance...Avoid contact with the eyes of mucous membranes. Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin. Do not bandage. Do not use with heating pads or devices.

My opinion;
I must admit, my opinion is determined by the reaction from my patients rather than my own subjective experience. The first time I used it I was very impressed with the results felt by my patient. However, I use this product as a base for massage and don't simply rub it in as suggested by Biofreeze. This then leads to the argument as to whether it is the product or the massage which is giving he relief. Although, in my clinical experience I have better and longer lasting results using the Biofreeze than simple massage oil. This for me is only temporary symptom relief until the primary cause is treated and resolved. I have recommended this product to patients for multiple complaints and even those who have tried deep heat/heat packs/ibuprofen gels etc have stuck with Biofreeze and find that it is much more effective.
I favour this product over heat product as cryotherapy has the effect of reducing inflammation and swelling. For example, if you sprained your ankle, you wouldn't put a heat pack on it, you would use ice...why therefore would you use a heat cream?
The effect can be increased by taking ibuprofen tablets as they can be used at the same time which is a real benefit if necessary.

Summary;
The price may sound steep at about £7 for a small tube and a few pounds more than heat rubs/ibuprofen gels but the superiority of the product makes the price worth it! I use this gel regularly with my patients and I see a great temporary improvement in their symptoms. I would recommend Biofreeze over all other gels and so would my patients!