New Drug-Free Tools for Pain Relief

My workout philosophy is “work hard, recover harder,” so I’m always on the lookout for new tools that will help me bounce back quickly. I give lots of bonus points for easy-to-use and innovative drug-free tools.

I had a chance to try out some new products recently and there were some winners that I’m sharing so you can check them out, too. You know, cuz we FBGs gotta look out for each other.

PainCakes. How has this not been a thing before now?! Holy crap, this product is amazing! It’s a cold pack that literally sticks to you. I’m surely not the only one who has struggled with icing my sore spots and wondering why it’s too much to ask that the freaking ice pack stay where I put it. And for $14.99, it’s kind of a no-brainer to have around.

I tested it out after running a 50k and at one point had three PainCakes stuck to me. I was lying on the couch, nursing my achy parts without worrying at all about shifting positions. The adhesive is strong but won’t strip the top layer of skin off of you when you go to remove it. Added bonus: The adhesive pad creates some separation between your bare skin and the ice pack so you’re protected.

Simply chill it in its resealable pouch, then remove the cover to reveal the adhesive and stick it to your ouchie. It conforms to the shape of you so you can stick it right where you need it. It holds its cold for up to 15 minutes. Then just slap the adhesive cover back on, tuck it back into its pouch and toss it back into the freezer for reuse later.

The Muscle Stick by Naples Soap Company. I’ve never really been a fan of topical medicated pain relievers — probably due to the smell and the associations with it from my childhood. But I test drove this wonder stick after I did Murph on Memorial Day weekend to deal with the DOMS in my legs and it’s pretty awesome. Only $14 and it’s not sticky or greasy at all. Plus, it gets its superpowers from a blend of essential oils (instead of chemicals) designed to help promote circulation and reduce inflammation as it provides cooling relief for your muscles.

You just rub it on your skin straight from the stick and it smells delightful — like peppermint and eucalyptus. Then about 10-15 minutes later, the cooling menthol action starts. It’s not insane either, just a mild, tingly, cool sensation that dulls the achy feeling in and around your hard-working muscles. I love that the applicator means you don’t have to get the product all over your hands (somehow I always end up with stuff in my eyes).

What are you favorite, all-natural ways to deal with aches and pains? —Alison