Ralgex

Ralgex is back on pharmacy shelves, thanks to LanesHealth. Ralgex Muscle Rub Cream (45g, £3.69) increases blood flow and soothes pain, is indicated for the relief of muscular aches, pains and stiffness, including backache, lumbago and fibromyalgia. Ingredients include methyl salicylate, turpentine oil, levomenthol, camphor and eucalyptus oil. The relaunch is being backed by digital and press advertising, as well as PR and POS.
(Tel: 01452 507458)

Deep Relief

Deep Relief has shown significant growth since the introduction of new packaging and a brand new TV ad, says Mentholatum. The ad, featuring the Deep Relief yoga guru, will be back later in the year. Deep Relief Anti- Inflammatory Gel is available in three GSL pack sizes (30g, 50g and 100g), while Deep Relief Joint Pain Gel in a pharmacy-only 100g pack can be recommended for the relief of pain associated with non-serious arthritic conditions.
(Tel: 01202 780558)

Belladonna

Belladonna Plaster is clinically proven to ease back pain, muscular tension, stiff necks, aching shoulders, lumbago, sciatica and rheumatism, thanks to the natural alkaloids that coat the perforated plasters, says Cuxson Gerrard. Unlike simple heat plasters, Belladonna Plaster is a P medicine that desensitises nerve endings to relieve aches and pains. It is available in two sizes.
(Tel: 0121 544 7117)

Puressentiel

Essential oils and massage are combined in the Puressentiel Muscles & Joints Roller, which recreates the technique of deep transversal massage that physiotherapists use to treat painful tendons, ligaments and muscles, says Puressentiel. Products in the Puressentiel Muscles & Joints range contain 14 pure essential oils to help relax, soothe and relieve muscle and joint pain, including cajeput, roman chamomile and clove. As well as the roller, the range includes a soothing balm, gel and eight-hour pain reliever heating patches.
(Tel: 020 3488 8110)

Mentholatum

‘Mind your back’ is a multimedia campaign by Mentholatum that focuses on five S.T.E.P.S. – Stretch, Therapy, Exercise, Posture and Strengthen. A website (mindyourbackuk.com) explains each step and includes videos of the stretch and strengthen exercises. It also shows how therapy with Mentholatum’s Deep Heat, Deep Freeze and Deep Relief ranges can help relieve back pain when it strikes.
(Tel: 01202 780558)

Care

The Care range, comprising over 80 products, covers the majority of minor ailments, says Thornton & Ross. Care Ibuprofen Gels relieve the pain and inflammation associated with backache, rheumatic and muscular pain, strains, sprains and sports injuries. The 5% gel is available in 50g and 100g packs, while the 10% gel comes in a 50g pack. Further information at allthecareyouneedhcp.co.uk.
(Tel: 01484 842217)

Ibuleve

Two-thirds of Ibuleve users are in the 55-plus age group and seven in 10 are women, says Dendron. Chronic backache, rheumatism and muscular pains are the most common reasons for purchase. Users in the under-35 age group, however, buy Ibuleve for transient muscular pains, sprains and strains caused by sports, lifting children and carrying heavy objects. A clinical study found Ibuleve gel can match the speed and efficacy of pain relief when compared to ibuprofen tablets, says the company.
(Tel: 01923 205704)