1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (e.g. Ibuleve) and diclofenac (e.g. Voltarol Pain-eze Emulgel) reduce swelling and inflammation as well as pain. They work in the same way as oral products, but their effect is concentrated locally at the sight of pain, as well as systemically (i.e. they are absorbed into the body).

2. Cold treatments cause numbing and narrowing of the blood vessels, which makes it more difficult for inflammatory chemicals to reach the injured area. OTC examples include Deep Freeze Cold Spray and Ibuleve Rapid Cooling Patch.

3. Rubefacients, sometimes known as counter-irritants, cause a feeling of warmth when they are rubbed into the skin, distracting the brain from the pain. These ingredients can cause discomfort if they are applied after a hot bath or shower, during warm weather or to skin that is already irritated or broken. Rubefacient ingredients include salicylic acid esters, nicotinates, menthol, camphor and capsicum oleoresin. OTC product examples include Movelat Relief Gel, Deep Heat Heat Rub and Radian B Muscle Rub.

4. Heat treatments are normally available in pads or patches and help to dilate the blood vessels, increasing blood circulation to the affected area and moving away the chemicals that contribute towards the pain. They should not be used until 72 hours after an injury as they can increase the risk of bleeding, and they should not be applied to broken skin. OTC examples include Thermacare and Nurofen Muscle and Back Pain Relief Heat Patches.

5. Bruise reducers do just what they say on the pack: minimise bruising. Examples include heparinoids (e.g. Hirudoid) and arnica.