Which topical pain relief creams are most effective? i see ones with menthol, others with arnica, some with lidocaine. i am sure they must all work in different ways, and each one claims to be the best. what type is recommended for muscle/joint pain?

Anti inflammatory: Muscle and joint pain is typically involves inflammation, so,an anti-inflammatory product like OTC Voltaren gel will work well,on joints near the surface (shoulder, elbow, knee, ankle; but, not on the hip,as,that is a deep joint. Ice massage also,helps. Menthol based products help confuse the brain by creating surface dilation and ‘heat’ but do not affect inflammation.