What are some ointments that relieve arthritis pain?

The most effective over-the-counter ointments for relieving arthritic pain fall under three groups of active ingredients: salicylates, such as Bengay, capsaicin, such as Zostrix, and counterirritants, such as Biofreeze, according to Mayo Clinic. Prescription ointments, such as Voltaren, that contain the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac also relieve arthritic pain.

Although topical pain medications help arthritis sufferers manage their symptoms to a reasonable extent, they are not for use on broken skin or with a heating pad, cautions Mayo Clinic. These ointments have the most efficacy when sufferers apply them to joints that are close to the skin's surface, such as the knees.