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Topical Analgesics Used by Massage Therapists: Cooling vs Warming, Gels vs Sprays, and When to Use Them
A professional guide for massage therapists, physiotherapists, and sports therapists.
Topical analgesics are among the most commonly used support products in massage therapy clinics. From relieving post-exercise soreness to helping therapists work through chronic muscle tension, these products provide targeted pain relief directly where it is needed.
Professional therapists often incorporate topical analgesics before, during, or after treatments to enhance comfort, reduce muscle sensitivity, and help clients maintain results between sessions.
Shop Professional Analgesics
BodyBest carries a wide selection of professional pain relief products used by massage therapists and physiotherapists across Canada.
In this guide we explain:
- The difference between cooling vs warming analgesics
- How therapists choose between gel, spray, and roll-on formats
- When topical analgesics are applied during treatment
- The professional brands most commonly used in clinics
You can browse the full range of professional options in the Topical Analgesics collection.
What Are Topical Analgesics?
Topical analgesics are pain-relieving products applied directly to the skin. Unlike oral medications, they work locally by stimulating sensory receptors in the skin and underlying tissues.
These products commonly contain ingredients such as:
- Menthol (cooling sensation)
- Camphor
- Capsaicin (warming effect)
- Eucalyptus or herbal extracts
Massage therapists use topical analgesics to temporarily relieve:
- Muscle soreness
- Joint discomfort
- Minor strains and sprains
- Post-workout muscle fatigue
- Chronic muscular tension
Because these products act locally, they are especially useful for targeted problem areas like the neck, shoulders, lower back, hips, and knees.
How Do Topical Analgesics Work?
Cooling vs Warming Analgesics: When Therapists Choose Each
One of the most important distinctions between topical analgesics is whether they produce a cooling effect or a warming effect.
Cooling Analgesics (Menthol-Based Relief)
Cooling formulas are typically menthol-based and create a refreshing sensation that helps calm irritated tissues and temporarily reduce pain signals.
Massage therapists commonly choose cooling analgesics for:
- Acute muscle soreness
- Inflammation or irritated tissues
- Sports recovery
- Post-exercise muscle fatigue
- Clients sensitive to deep pressure
These products are especially popular in athletic therapy and sports massage because they can soothe muscles quickly after intense activity.
Two of the most widely used professional cooling analgesics include:
- CryoDerm – a strong clinical-grade menthol analgesic commonly used by massage therapists
- Biofreeze – one of the most recognized cooling gels used in sports medicine
Warming Analgesics (Heat-Based Muscle Relief)
Warming formulas increase circulation and create a gentle heating sensation that helps relax tight muscles and improve tissue flexibility.
Therapists often use warming analgesics for:
- Chronic muscle tightness
- Long-standing muscular pain
- Joint stiffness
- Deep tissue work
- Cold or poorly circulated areas
Heat sensations can help soften tissues and allow therapists to work deeper without causing discomfort.
A popular option among Canadian therapists is Medistik, a convenient stick applicator that delivers warming relief for targeted areas.
Gel vs Spray vs Roll-On: Choosing the Best Format
Topical analgesics come in several formats designed for different clinical situations. Massage therapists often keep multiple types available depending on the treatment style and client needs.
Gel Analgesics
Gel is the most commonly used format in massage therapy clinics because it integrates easily into manual treatment.
Advantages of gel formulas include:
- Easy control over application
- Even distribution over larger areas
- Quick absorption
- Minimal greasy residue
Products such as CryoDerm gel are widely used because they allow therapists to apply precise amounts while working directly into the muscle tissue.
Spray Analgesics
Sprays provide a quick, hygienic way to apply analgesics without getting product on the therapist’s hands.
They are especially useful for:
- Large muscle groups
- Sports teams and athletic settings
- Hard-to-reach areas like the back
- Quick application between treatments
Spray analgesics are commonly used in physiotherapy clinics and sports environments where speed and convenience are important.
Roll-On Analgesics
Roll-on applicators provide targeted relief and are very popular for both clinic use and home care.
Benefits include:
- Precise application to trigger points
- No direct contact with the product
- Portable and easy for clients to use between sessions
Many therapists recommend Biofreeze roll-on products for client self-care after treatment.
When Massage Therapists Apply Topical Analgesics
Professional therapists use topical analgesics strategically throughout a treatment session depending on the client's condition and treatment goals.
Before Treatment
Applying analgesics before deeper techniques can help prepare tissues and reduce pain sensitivity.
This approach is often used for:
- Trigger point therapy
- Deep tissue massage
- Clients with very tender muscles
During Treatment
During massage, therapists may apply small amounts to specific areas of tension or chronic tightness.
This can help:
- Reduce muscle guarding
- Allow deeper therapeutic work
- Provide immediate localized relief
Gel formats are typically preferred during treatment because they blend easily with massage techniques.
After Treatment
Many therapists apply topical analgesics after treatment to reinforce the benefits of manual therapy and provide longer-lasting relief.
Clients are often encouraged to continue using products like Biofreeze or Medistik at home to maintain results between appointments.
Why Professional Therapists Use Clinical-Grade Analgesics
Massage therapists and physiotherapists prefer professional products that offer:
- Reliable therapeutic effects
- Skin-safe formulations
- Consistent cooling or warming sensations
- Convenient application formats
Trusted brands used in clinics across Canada include:
These products are widely used by massage therapists, chiropractors, athletic trainers, and physiotherapists to help clients manage pain and improve mobility.
Conclusion
Topical analgesics are a valuable tool for massage therapists looking to enhance treatment results and improve client comfort.
Understanding the differences between cooling and warming formulas, choosing the right product format, and applying them at the appropriate time during treatment can significantly improve outcomes for clients dealing with muscle pain and tension.
To explore professional products trusted by therapists, visit the Topical Analgesics collection at BodyBest.
Biofreeze vs CryoDerm: Which Do Massage Therapists Prefer?
Two of the most widely used cooling topical analgesics in massage therapy clinics are Biofreeze and CryoDerm. Both products use menthol to create a cooling sensation that helps temporarily relieve muscle and joint discomfort, but therapists may choose one over the other depending on their treatment style.
Biofreeze is widely recognized in sports medicine and physiotherapy clinics and is often recommended for home care because of its convenient roll-on and gel formats. Many therapists appreciate its fast cooling effect and client familiarity with the brand.
CryoDerm is frequently preferred by massage therapists during treatment sessions because its professional formula absorbs smoothly into the skin and works well during manual therapy techniques. The gel texture allows therapists to apply controlled amounts while targeting specific areas of muscular tension.
Ultimately, both products provide effective cooling relief, and many clinics keep both available for different situations. Therapists often use CryoDerm during treatments while recommending Biofreeze for clients to use between appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Topical Analgesics
What topical analgesics do massage therapists use?
Massage therapists commonly use professional-grade products such as CryoDerm, Biofreeze, and Medistik. These products provide cooling or warming sensations that help temporarily relieve muscle and joint pain.
Do massage therapists use Biofreeze during treatment?
Yes. Many therapists apply Biofreeze before or after treatment to help reduce soreness and improve comfort. It is especially popular in sports massage and physiotherapy clinics because of its strong cooling menthol effect.
What is the difference between cooling and warming muscle rubs?
Cooling analgesics typically contain menthol and help calm inflamed tissues. Warming formulas increase circulation and are often used for chronic muscle tightness and stiffness.
Are topical analgesics safe for massage therapy?
When used according to product instructions, professional topical analgesics are considered safe for therapeutic use. Massage therapists typically apply small amounts to targeted areas while avoiding broken skin or sensitive areas.
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