Sore and Stiff? These Expert-Reviewed Medicines for Body Aches Can Help You Find Relief
Body aches are something most of us experience from time to time. When your muscles ache, you want relief that’s safe, effective, and tailored to what your body needs. From over-the-counter pain relievers and topical creams to natural remedies, there are many ways to ease discomfort and support recovery.
Choosing the right remedy depends on what’s behind the pain. Some aches are linked to inflammation or overuse, while others stem from stress, dehydration, or illness. According to Thomas Nguyen, MD, an interventional pain specialist at VSI in Reston, Virginia, general aches caused by overtraining, stress, or insomnia can improve with strategies that help the body restore balance. “Hydration, gentle movement like yoga or tai chi, nutritious foods, and good sleep hygiene can go a long way,” says Dr. Nguyen, noting that most mild aches resolve within a few days.
Still, not every ache is easily managed at home. If pain persists, worsens, or comes with other symptoms like fever, swelling, or weakness, it’s best to check in with your doctor.
For everyday soreness, though, accessible remedies can make a big difference. To help you decide where to start, we reviewed the most effective support for body aches, drawing on input from medical experts and physical therapists. Each recommendation emphasizes safety and effectiveness, so you can find the right relief for your body.
Our Top Picks for Best Medicine for Body Aches
- Best for inflammation-related aches: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Best for body aches from cold or flu: acetaminophen
- Best topical cream for sore muscles: Voltaren gel (diclofenac 1%)
- Best for targeted relief: Salonpas Pain Relief Patches
- Best cooling therapy for muscle pain pelief: FlexiKold Gel Soft Flexible Ice Packs
- Best warming therapy for stiff muscles: Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared XL Heating Pad
- Best epsom salt soak for full-body soreness: Dr. Teal's Epsom Salt Wellness Therapy
- Best herbal or plant-based formula: Thorne Curcumin Phytosome
- Best for post-workout muscle pain: Foam Roller
- Best nighttime pain relief for body aches: Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate
- Best for ongoing body aches: yoga stretching and mobility exercises
When to Consult Your Doctor
While mild body aches usually get better with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies, sometimes, pain can signal something more serious. Speak with your doctor if pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Nguyen says it’s essential to watch for red flags that require prompt medical attention. “These include fever over 100.4 degrees F, a stiff neck, intractable nausea or vomiting, extreme weakness, difficulty breathing, or visible swelling, redness, or warmth in a joint or skin,” he explains.
You should also contact your doctor if aches persist for longer than a few days, interfere with your daily life, or if you have chronic conditions or are taking medications that could interact with pain relievers. As Nguyen notes, mild aches usually resolve as your body recovers, but if symptoms last or get worse, don’t ignore them.
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Best for Inflammation-Related Aches
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Pros
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Effective for muscle and joint pain
- Fast-acting pain relief
- Widely available over the counter
- Affordable and easy to dose
Cons
- May cause stomach irritation
- May not be appropriate for those with kidney or heart disease
Key Specs
- Form: oral tablet or capsule
- Use duration: every 6 to 8 hours as needed
- Intended use: inflammation and muscle or joint pain relief
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Best for Body Aches From Cold or Flu
Acetaminophen
Pros
- Gentle on the stomach
- Reduces fever and pain
- Widely available OTC
- Safe for NSAID-sensitive users
Cons
- No anti-inflammatory effects
- Risk of liver toxicity with high doses
Key Specs
- Form: oral tablet, capsule, or liquid
- Use duration: every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Intended use: fever reduction and relief of mild to moderate pain
When your body aches during a cold or flu, acetaminophen (Tylenol) provides effective pain relief and reduces fever without irritating your stomach. “Acetaminophen serves as a gentler alternative for those with sensitive stomachs, providing pain relief without anti-inflammatory effects,” explains Chen.
While medication helps manage symptoms, experts agree it’s just one part of recovery. Nguyen notes that mild viral infections typically resolve with supportive care. He recommends prioritizing hydration, rest, and nutrient intake to support the body's healing. Kristina Welsome, DPT, PT, assistant professor of physical therapy at New York Medical College in Valhalla, echoes this, adding that rest and avoiding strenuous activity help the immune system focus on recovery when fever and aches are part of the body’s natural defense response.
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Best Topical Cream for Sore Muscles
Voltaren Gel (Diclofenac 1%)
Pros
- Targets pain directly at the source
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Fewer systemic side effects
- Easy, mess-free application
Cons
- Temporary relief only
- Carries FDA warnings for heart and GI risks
Key Specs
- Form: topical gel
- Use duration: apply up to 4 times daily
- Intended use: localized muscle or joint inflammation
Voltaren gel is a topical NSAID designed to help relieve joint and muscle pain at the source. The active ingredient, diclofenac 1 percent, works by blocking enzymes that produce prostaglandins, just like oral NSAIDs. Because it’s applied directly to the skin, it delivers targeted relief with fewer systemic side effects than oral NSAIDs.
“Voltaren gel (diclofenac 1 percent) is widely regarded as one of the most effective topical anti-inflammatory treatments for joint pain and sore muscles, as it offers targeted relief directly at the source,” says Chen.
While these creams can help temporarily reduce pain, Leada Malek, DPT, PT, director of sports at Agile Physical Therapy in San Francisco and adjunct professor at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, California, reminds patients that “topical creams can provide temporary relief from muscle pain, but they do not actually promote muscle recovery.” She recommends pairing topical relief with stretching, hydration, and a proper recovery routine for long-term results.
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Best for Targeted Relief
Salonpas Pain Relief Patches
Pros
- Localized relief
- Cooling and warming sensation
- Stays in place for hours
- Easy to find OTC
Cons
- Temporary relief only
- May cause mild skin irritation
Key Specs
- Form: medicated adhesive patch
- Use duration: up to 8 to 12 hours per patch
- Intended use: targeted relief of muscle, joint, or backaches
“Salonpas Pain Relief Patches are the best choice for targeted, long-lasting relief from back, joint, and muscle pain and are recognized as one of the world’s leading over-the-counter topical patches,” says Chen.
While generally safe when used as directed, don’t apply patches to broken or irritated skin. Some people may experience mild redness or irritation from the adhesion. Like other topical analgesics, these patches provide temporary symptom relief but don’t address the underlying causes of pain, so pairing them with rest, stretching, or physical therapy may improve long-term comfort and recovery.

Best Cooling Therapy for Muscle Pain Relief
FlexiKold Gel Soft Flexible Ice Packs
Pros
- Reusable and inexpensive
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Nondrug, low-risk option
- Ideal for acute injuries
Cons
- Provides temporary relief
- Can cause numbness or skin irritation from overuse
Key Specs
- Form: reusable gel ice pack
- Use duration: apply for 15 to 20 minutes per session
- Intended use: reduces inflammation, pain, and swelling from acute injuries
“Ice packs are one of the most effective ways to ease acute pain, as they offer cooling relief and help reduce inflammation and numb the area effectively,” says Chen. “Apply for 15 to 20 minutes to minimize swelling on fresh injuries.”
Dr. Malek also recommends cold therapy for inflammatory aches. “For inflammation aches, I recommend cold therapy tools such as ice packs for pain relief, cold compression sleeves, and compression wraps,” she says. “This can help control inflammation, facilitate progress, and encourage healing with less pain.”
While generally safe, ice therapy can have side effects, including numbness or skin irritation. Overuse or direct contact can damage skin or nerve tissue, particularly in people with circulatory issues.
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Best Warming Therapy for Stiff Muscles
Pure Enrichment PureRelief Pro Far Infrared XL Heating Pad
Pros
- Relieves stiffness and tension
- Increases blood flow and flexibility
- Easy to use at home
- Available in multiple forms (pads, wraps, baths)
Cons
- Temporary relief only
- Risk of burns or irritation if overused
Key Specs
- Form: electric far-infrared heating pad with ceramic-bead layer
- Use duration: 15 to 20 minutes at a time
- Intended use: muscle and joint relief for back, neck, shoulder, and knee pain
“Heat therapy … is highly effective for relieving muscle stiffness. By promoting blood flow and relaxation through gentle vasodilation, it helps loosen tight tissues and ease chronic tension,” says Chen. He recommends applying heat for 15 to 20 minutes at a time to maximize relief while avoiding skin irritation or burns.
Welsome also points out that alternating between heat and cold — known as contrast therapy — can be especially beneficial. “The use of heat, like a good old-fashioned hot water bottle or a warm bath, or alternating heat with cold therapy, can improve circulation, decrease aches and pains, and help move out any toxic buildup,” she explains.
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Best Epsom Salt Soak for Full-Body Soreness
Dr. Teal's Epsom Salt Wellness Therapy
Pros
- May support muscle relaxation and tension relief
- Affordable, easy home remedy
- Pleasant scent and calming experience
- Simple to use after exercise or long days
Cons
- Limited scientific evidence
- Not suitable for broken or irritated skin
Key Specs
- Form: magnesium sulfate bath salt blend with essential oils
- Use duration: dissolve 1–2 cups per bath; soak for 15–20 minutes
- Intended use: relieves general muscle soreness and tension
Chen says Dr. Teal’s Epsom Salt Wellness Therapy works well for easing full-body soreness. “For best results, dissolve 1 to 2 cups in warm bathwater and soak for about 20 minutes to enhance magnesium absorption and restore muscle comfort,” he says.
Malek notes that while evidence supporting the use of Epsom salt is limited, soaking “may help some people feel a temporary release of muscle tightness and tension.” She also advises skipping Epsom salts if you have open wounds or skin conditions, explaining that magnesium sulfate and essential oils can sometimes worsen sensitivity.
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Best Herbal or Plant-Based Formula
Thorne Curcumin Phytosome
Pros
- Natural anti-inflammatory support
- Fewer GI side effects than NSAIDs
- Supports joint and muscle recovery
- Suitable for long-term use
Cons
- Must be taken consistently for benefits
- May interact with blood thinners or medications
Key Specs
- Form: curcumin-phosphatidylcholine phytosome (Meriva) capsules
- Use duration: 1–2 capsules daily with food for ongoing support
- Intended use: supports joint comfort, reduces inflammation, and promotes post-exercise recovery

Best for Post-Workout Muscle Pain
Foam Roller
Pros
- Supports flexibility and mobility
- Reduces post-workout soreness
- Increases blood flow and recovery
- Affordable and accessible
Cons
- May feel uncomfortable at first
- Temporary results
Key Specs
- Form: high-density foam roller
- Use duration: appropriate for daily use during post-workout recovery or mobility routines
- Intended use: self myofascial release, muscle soreness relief, flexibility improvement
“Stretching and mobility aids are great tools for recovery and aches,” says Malek. “Foam rollers provide a self-massage effect, helping to reduce muscle pain and improve joint mobility.” She notes that if foam rolling feels uncomfortable, “a massage stick or even a rolling pin can be a good alternative for releasing tight muscles and improving circulation.”
While helpful for managing tension and soreness, Malek cautions that these tools are only one tool for optimizing exercise recovery. Consistent mobility work and, in some cases, physical therapy may be needed — especially if the pain stems from an injury or persistent tightness.
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Best Nighttime Pain Relief for Body Aches
Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate
Pros
- Promotes relaxation and recovery
- Supports restful sleep and calm
- Gentle on the stomach
- Highly bioavailable glycinate form
Cons
- Need to take consistently for results
- May cause loose stools at high doses
Key Specs
- Form: chelated magnesium glycinate capsules
- Use duration: daily, ideally in the evening for relaxation and sleep support
- Intended use: promotes muscle relaxation and supports restful sleep
Pure Encapsulations Magnesium Glycinate offers a well-tolerated, highly absorbable form that may be helpful if muscle aches and stress are interrupting your nightly rest.

Best for Ongoing Body Aches
Yoga Stretching and Mobility Exercises
Pros
- Promotes flexibility and circulation
- Supports posture and joint stability
- Encourages daily mobility practice
- Accessible to anyone
Cons
- Can require consistency for results
- Not a quick pain fix
Key Specs
- Form: reversible nonslip yoga and exercise mat
- Use duration: ideal for daily stretching, yoga, or Pilates sessions (15–30 minutes)
- Intended use: supports flexibility, core strength, and joint mobility while reducing stiffness and pain
While medication has its place, consistent movement is one of the most effective — and safest — ways to manage chronic pain over time, according to Chan. Gentle stretching, yoga, or mobility exercises help increase circulation, loosen stiff muscles, and reduce joint pressure, all while supporting long-term strength and flexibility.
To make your routine more comfortable, we like the Gaiam Reversible Yoga Mat for a stable, cushioned foundation for stretching and mobility work. Its nonslip texture supports balance and alignment during poses, while the extra padding reduces strain on knees, wrists, and other joints. It’s an easy way to incorporate movement into your daily pain relief routine.
Comparison Table
Topical gel
Curcumin-phosphatidylcholine phytosome capsules
High-density foam roller
How We Chose the Best Medicine for Body Aches
To find the best medicines and remedies for body aches, we relied on expertise from the following healthcare professionals:
- Thomas Nguyen, MD, interventional pain specialist at VSI in Reston, Virginia
- Reuben Chen, MD, board-certified sports medicine physician, pain management specialist, herbalist, and the chief medical officer at Sunrider International in Fort Worth, Texas
- Kristina Welsome, DPT, PT, assistant professor of physical therapy at New York Medical College in Valhalla
- Leada Malek, DPT, PT, director of sports at Agile Physical Therapy in San Francisco and adjunct professor at Samuel Merritt University in Oakland, California
Each expert provided insights based on clinical experience and evidence-based practice, helping us evaluate which options are safest and most effective for common causes of body pain. We prioritized products that are easy to find, supported by research, and commonly used for at-home relief.
What to Look for When Buying Medicine for Body Aches
The best medicine for body aches depends on what’s actually causing your discomfort. “Many things can be the root cause of body aches,” says Dr. Welsome. “The most effective and appropriate remedy will be the one that gets to or addresses the root cause.”
Nguyen agrees. “When I look at the best medicines and treatments for body aches, I start by defining the cause — whether it’s fatigue from overuse, poor sleep, stress, or infection,” he explains. “Recognizing whether pain is joint, muscle, or nerve-related helps guide which remedy will work best.”
Here are a few factors to consider when choosing pain relief remedies:
- Cause of Pain Identify whether it’s from overuse, stress, illness, or injury to guide your treatment approach.
- Formulation and Delivery Consider whether you prefer oral medication, topical creams, or patches for localized relief.
- Safety and Interactions Check labels carefully and check with your physician, especially if you have liver, kidney, or heart conditions.
- Duration of Relief Look for products that fit your needs, whether quick-acting for temporary soreness or longer-lasting for chronic discomfort.
- Tolerability If you have a sensitive stomach or are unable to take NSAIDs or acetaminophen, topical treatments may be gentler alternatives.
What Causes Body Aches?
According to Welsome, many things can be the root cause of body aches. She emphasizes that understanding where your pain originates — whether from overuse, tension, infection, or imbalance — helps you choose the right care strategy rather than masking symptoms. “Knowing the source of your aches and pains will allow you to make the most informed decision about the intervention strategy or care you choose to apply to your body,” she explains.
No matter the cause, Welsome recommends supporting your body’s natural healing processes through gentle movement, improved circulation, and adequate rest and recovery.
She encourages patients to view healing as a collaborative process that includes both clinical expertise and personal awareness. “While your physical therapist, physician, and psychotherapist have the knowledge and training to guide you, you also need to trust and recognize your own inner authority — which communicates through the sensations, emotions, and thoughts you experience,” she says.
How Do Pain Relievers Work to Ease Body Aches?
Pain relievers work by interrupting the biological signals that cause discomfort. While different types of medicine act in distinct ways, their goal is the same: to reduce pain, inflammation, or the brain’s perception of pain so you can move, rest, and recover more easily.
Medication isn’t the only way to help with aches and pain. Simple remedies — like alternating ice and heat — can also be highly effective. Ice helps reduce swelling and numbs acute pain, while gentle heat can support circulation and relax tense or stiff muscles.
When Should You See a Doctor for Body Aches?
“The majority of your acute aches and pains can be managed at home with conservative treatments that focus on addressing the cause and providing your body with the essential supplies it needs to heal itself,” says Nguyen. Simple steps such as stretching, applying ice or heat, and getting enough rest often allow mild pain to subside naturally.
However, Nguyen cautions that if symptoms don’t begin to improve within a few days — or if they worsen despite home care — it’s time to see your doctor. Persistent or severe pain could indicate a deeper issue that requires professional evaluation. You should also seek medical attention if body aches are accompanied by fever, swelling, weakness, or shortness of breath.
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Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN
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Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. Caitlin’s special interests include women's health, gut health, autoimmunity, and reproductive health. Committed to the belief that health information should be accessible to all, she is passionate about empowering individuals to make positive changes for their well-being. Caitlin holds advanced training certificates in women's health and integrative and functional nutrition.
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Allison M. Fout, PA-C
Medical Reviewer
Allison M. Fout, PA-C, has 20 years of experience as a Physician Assistant with a career rooted in orthopedic care. Since 2015, she has been a provider at Excelsior Orthopaedics in Buffalo, New York, specializing in sports medicine, joint replacements, fracture care, and a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions.
She works with patients across multiple age groups — from young athletes to aging adults — helping them recover function, reduce pain, and return to the activities they enjoy.
Her dedication to patient-centered care earns the trust of both her patients and colleagues. Beyond the clinic and operating room, she's involved in education and mentorship. She serves as a mentor to fellow clinicians and students alike and works as an adjunct instructor of orthopedics for the PA program at Daemen University, guiding and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals as they develop their technical skills, knowledge, and confidence.

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