1. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (e.g. Ibuleve, Nurofen 5% Gel), felbinac (e.g. Traxam Pain Relief Gel) and diclofenac (e.g. Voltarol Pain-eze Emulgel) reduce swelling and inflammation as well as pain. They act both locally at the site of the problem and systemically (i.e. they are absorbed into the body). This means that side effects similar to those experienced by people taking oral NSAIDs can occur.

2. Rubefacients, sometimes known as counterirritants, cause blood to rush to the surface of the skin, which makes it feel warm. This distracts the brain from the pain, but means these ingredients can cause discomfort if 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.

3. Heat treatments increase circulation to the affected area, which helps move away the chemicals that contribute towards the pain. They should not be used immediately after an injury as they can increase the risk of bleeding, nor should they be applied to broken skin. OTC examples include Voltarol Heat Patch, Thermacare.

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

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