Osteoarthritis in Older Adults: Recovery of Mobility and Pain With a Topical Analgesic

Summary

Biofreeze® is a topical ointment that has menthol and alcamphor. Its analgesic effect lies in the stimulation of A and C fibers by cold and nociceptive stimulation, respectively, which is produced by menthol, apparently through the newly discovered receptor TRPM8 (Transient Receptor Potential melastatin-8) The aim of this study is to investigate if BIOFREEZE ® treatment (Performance Health Inc., Export, PA) improves symptoms associated with moderate knee osteoarthritis, which would decrease the immobility and isolation in older adults.

Timeline

Start

2012-04

Primary completion

2012-10

Completion

2012-12

Publications

• Background Zhang J, Enix D, Snyder B, Giggey K, Tepe R. Effects of Biofreeze and chiropractic adjustments on acute low back pain: a pilot study. J Chiropr Med. 2008 Jun;7(2):59-65. doi: 10.1016/j.jcme.2008.02.004.

Drugs

Indications