When muscle pain strikes, you've got options. Walk down any pharmacy aisle and you'll find shelves lined with creams, balms, ointments, patches, and gels - all promising to ease your discomfort. But here's the thing: not all topical pain relievers are created equal.

Creams tend to be thicker and white, with that classic moisturizer feel. They're made from a mix of oil and water, which means they can leave a slight residue on your skin. Balms and ointments are the heavy hitters - oil-based, thick, and often greasy. They create a protective barrier that can help with deep penetration, but good luck wearing your favorite shirt afterward. Patches offer steady medication release over hours, but they're bulky and don't work well on curved areas like your shoulder or knee.