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6 Steps to Apply Anti-Inflammatory Creams for Pain

Applying a topical anti-inflammatory cream correctly can help improve treatment outcomes.

Sophia KellerMandy Armitage, MD
Written by Sophia Keller | Reviewed by Mandy Armitage, MD
Updated on June 4, 2025
Reviewed by Mandy Armitage, MD | June 4, 2025

When muscle or joint pain is caused by inflammation, one treatment option is a topical anti-inflammatory cream. Knowing how to apply these creams correctly may improve your treatment outcomes and minimize side effects.

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Sophia Keller
Written by:
Sophia Keller
Sophia Keller was an editorial intern on the GoodRx Health team. She has a bachelor’s degree in justice studies from Arizona State University.
Mandy Armitage, MD
Reviewed by:
Mandy Armitage, MD
Mandy Armitage, MD, has combined clinical medicine with her passion for education and content development for many years. She served as medical director for the health technology companies HealthLoop (now Get Well) and Doximity.

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