Menthol has a therapeutic effect on sore muscles and tendons
the verdict
SUPPORTED
the evidence backs this
confidence 84/100
Clinical and experimental studies support the therapeutic efficacy of topical menthol in alleviating pain and discomfort in sore muscles and tendons, largely through action on sensory ion channels like TRPM8.
Evidence for · 3
The distinctive role of menthol in pain and analgesia: Mechanisms, practices, and advances.
2022 · cited by 29
Menthol activates TRPM8 channels and helps attenuate pain in musculoskeletal conditions.
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More for · 2
A comparison of topical menthol to ice on pain, evoked tetanic and voluntary force during delayed onset muscle soreness.
2012 · cited by 23
Topical menthol gel significantly reduces discomfort and improves force production compared to ice in delayed onset muscle soreness.
Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness and Topical Analgesic Alter Corticospinal Excitability of the Biceps Brachii
2019 · cited by 16
A menthol-based topical analgesic effectively increases pressure-pain thresholds and reduces pain associated with DOMS.