July 01, 2025 • Awais

The Science of Pain Relief: What Medical Experts Say

Written by Dr. Khosa | GP & Pain Management Physician (Registered in Ireland)

Pain in 2025: A Widespread Issue with Evolving Solutions

Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek medical advice in the UK. Whether due to injury, arthritis, or long-term conditions like fibromyalgia, pain affects quality of life, sleep, movement, and mental health. In 2025, we’re seeing a growing shift: more patients are turning away from harsh pharmaceuticals and seeking gentler, science-backed alternatives. With concerns over long-term use of opioids and NSAIDs, both the NHS and private clinicians are recommending a multi-modal approach—one
that blends natural remedies, physical therapy, and targeted technology. As a British GP specialising in musculoskeletal conditions, I regularly recommend evidence-based
options like topical hemp creams, heat therapy, and TENS machines for pain relief. In this
article, I’ll break down the science behind these methods, how they’re used in clinical practice, and why they’re proving so effective in 2025.

Understanding Pain: More Than Just a Symptom

Pain is complex—it’s not just a feeling, but a protective mechanism. When tissues are injured, pain signals are transmitted via the nervous system to the brain, prompting you to rest and recover.

There are different types of pain:

• Acute Pain – short-term, caused by injury or surgery.
• Chronic Pain – persistent pain lasting longer than 12 weeks.
• Neuropathic Pain – caused by nerve damage or dysfunction.
• Inflammatory Pain – linked to conditions like arthritis or autoimmune disorders.

Around 43% of UK adults live with chronic pain, and this figure increases among adults aged 40 and up. Treating it effectively means understanding the cause and combining the right therapies for long-term relief.

1. Topical Pain Relief: A Targeted First Step

How Do Topical Creams Work?

Topical treatments—like creams, gels, and balms—are applied directly to the skin over the
affected area. These formulas are designed to:
• Disrupt pain signals using warming or cooling agents (like menthol or capsaicin)
• Deliver anti-inflammatory and soothing natural extracts into the skin
• Support local circulation and reduce stiffness
Unlike oral painkillers, topicals offer targeted relief without affecting the rest of the body—an
important consideration for patients on multiple medications or with sensitive stomachs.

Why Medical Experts Recommend Topicals in 2025

In my practice, topical creams are often the first-line defence for conditions such as:
• Joint and muscular pain
• Localised arthritis (knees, hands, shoulders)
• Post-exercise soreness
• Age-related stiffness
They’re particularly helpful for patients seeking non-invasive, drug-free solutions that can be used daily. Many GPs and physiotherapists recommend layering topicals with heat therapy or electrical stimulation for best results.
🟩 Vitalive Recommends
Vitalive’s topical range has emerged as one of the most clinically favoured options in 2025. These products combine high-strength hemp extract with essential oils and natural actives:
✅ Vitalive Triple Action Hemp Cream (50,000mg)
A fast-absorbing cream combining hemp, camphor, and eucalyptus for deep tissue comfort. Perfect for larger muscle groups and post-activity pain.
✅ Vitalive Max Strength Hemp Balm
A concentrated balm ideal for joints, wrists, and elbows, delivering long-lasting relief in a thick,nourishing formula. Both options are 100% non-psychoactive and suitable for daily use.
2. The Rise of Heat Therapy: A Natural Soother

Why Heat Still Works in 2025

While the science of pain has advanced, heat remains one of the most effective, natural
treatments available. Heat therapy works by:
• Increasing blood flow to the area
• Relaxing muscles
• Loosening stiff joints
• Enhancing the absorption of topical products
It’s often recommended for:
• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Lower back pain
• Menstrual pain
• Sports injuries during the recovery phase

Medical Use in Practice

In-clinic, we often use a combination of manual therapy and heat application to help reduce muscle tension and improve range of motion. Many patients continue this at home using heating pads, warm baths, or patches. Today’s transdermal heat patches are more effective than ever—especially those infused with
therapeutic ingredients.
🟩 Vitalive Recommends
✅ Vitalive Hemp Heat Patches
These self-adhesive, deep-heat patches combine long-lasting warmth with hemp extract,
delivering targeted comfort to the back, shoulders, neck, and knees. Popular among arthritis sufferers and sedentary workers.
💬 What Experts Say:
“In 2025, heat patches remain a top recommendation for day-to-day pain. They’re portable, mess- free, and ideal for patients managing arthritis or office-related tension.”
— Dr A. Khan, GP & Musculoskeletal Specialist

3. TENS Therapy: Electrical Relief Without Medication

What Is TENS?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) delivers gentle electrical impulses via
electrodes placed on the skin. These impulses:
• Interfere with pain signals sent to the brain
• Trigger the release of endorphins (the body’s natural painkillers)
• Promote local circulation and healing

Clinical Benefits in 2025

TENS is now widely used in NHS and private settings, especially for:
• Chronic back or neck pain
• Knee osteoarthritis
• Post-surgery recovery
• Nerve pain and sciatica

The appeal? It’s non-invasive, safe, and patients can use it independently at home—empowering them to take charge of their own pain management.

🟩 Vitalive Recommends

✅ Vitalive Digital Pain Relief TENS Machine

A sleek, wireless unit with pre-set programmes tailored to different pain conditions. Includes reusable electrode pads, USB charging, and adjustable intensity settings.
“For patients seeking daily pain relief without side effects, a home-use TENS machine is one of the best tools we have.”
— Dr A. Khan, GP

4. Why 2025 Is the Year of Combination Therapy

Pain relief is no longer a one-size-fits-all approach. Experts in 2025 recommend layering therapies to target pain from multiple angles.

🔁 Effective Combinations for Joint and Muscle Pain

1. Start with Vitalive Hemp Cream or Balm to reduce inflammation
2. Apply a Hemp Heat Patch over the area to enhance circulation
3. Use the TENS Machine for 20–30 minutes to block pain signals

This triad delivers faster relief, improved mobility, and reduced need for oral painkillers—a
goal shared by most modern clinicians.

How This Matches NHS Guidelines

The NHS is increasingly recognising topical, thermal, and electrotherapies as valuable tools,especially for chronic musculoskeletal conditions. These methods align with current best practices in self-management and non-pharmaceutical intervention.
👨⚕ Real-World Case:
A 52-year-old patient with knee arthritis reported a 50% improvement in daily pain scores after combining hemp cream, heat patches, and TENS therapy over 3 weeks—while avoiding further steroid injections.

5. Hemp Extract and the Endocannabinoid System: A Natural Ally in Pain Management

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex cell-signalling system present throughout the human body, playing a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite, and immune response. The ECS comprises:
• Endocannabinoids: Naturally occurring cannabinoids produced by the body.
• Receptors (CB1 and CB2): Found in the central nervous system and peripheral organs.
• Enzymes: Responsible for synthesising and degrading endocannabinoids.
When the body experiences pain or inflammation, endocannabinoids bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, helping to modulate the intensity and perception of pain.

How Hemp Extract Interacts with the ECS

Hemp extract, rich in cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD), interacts with the ECS by influencing its receptors and enhancing the body's natural ability to manage pain and inflammation. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a "high."Research suggests that CBD may help reduce chronic pain by impacting endocannabinoid receptor activity, reducing inflammation, and interacting with neurotransmitters.

6. Medical Research on Hemp Extract for Pain Relief

Current Findings

Recent studies have explored the efficacy of hemp extract in pain management:
• Arthritis and Joint Pain: A systematic review concluded that CBD could help reduce pain  and inflammation in conditions such as arthritis.
• Neuropathic Pain: Research indicates that cannabinoids may be effective in managing
neuropathic pain, a type of chronic pain resulting from nerve damage.

While these findings are promising, it's essential to note that more large-scale, human clinical trialsare needed to fully understand the benefits and limitations of hemp extract in pain management.

Ongoing Research and Future Directions

In 2025, research into cannabinoids continues to evolve. Clinical trials are underway to determine the potential effects and mechanisms of cannabinoid-induced pain relief in conditions like complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).

7. Safety Considerations for Topical Hemp Products and TENS Therapy

Using Topical Hemp Products Safely

When incorporating topical hemp products into your pain management routine, consider the following safety tips:
• Patch Test: Before full application, perform a patch test on a small skin area to check for
adverse reactions.
• Clean Application Area: Ensure the skin is clean and dry to maximise absorption and
reduce infection risk.
• Avoid Broken Skin: Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin.
• Wash Hands After Use: Prevent accidental contact with eyes or ingestion by washing
hands thoroughly after application.
• Consult Healthcare Providers: Especially important for individuals with underlying health conditions or those taking other medications.

Safety Tips for TENS Therapy

To use TENS therapy effectively and safely:
• Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhere to guidelines regarding electrode placement and device settings.
• Avoid Certain Areas: Do not place electrodes on the head, throat, or directly over the heart.
• Monitor Skin Condition: Regularly check the skin under the electrodes for irritation or
burns.
• Consult a Professional: Before starting TENS therapy, especially if you have a pacemaker,epilepsy, or are pregnant, seek medical advice.

8. When to Consult a GP

While self-management strategies can be effective, it's crucial to consult a GP if:
• Pain Persists Beyond 12 Weeks: Chronic pain warrants professional evaluation.
• Pain Intensifies or Changes: Sudden changes in pain characteristics should be assessed.
• Interference with Daily Life: If pain significantly impacts daily activities or mental health.
• Side Effects Occur: Adverse reactions from treatments or therapies need medical attention.

9. Expert Recommendations for 2025

In 2025, pain management strategies emphasise a holistic and individualised approach:
• Combination Therapies: Integrating topical hemp products, heat therapy, and TENS for
comprehensive relief.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and stress
management techniques.
• Patient Education: Empowering individuals with knowledge about their condition and
treatment options.
• Regular Follow-Ups: Monitoring progress and adjusting treatments as necessary with
healthcare providers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does hemp extract interact with the body's endocannabinoid system to
alleviate chronic pain?
Hemp extract, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system(ECS), which plays a crucial role in regulating pain sensation. By influencing ECS receptors, CBD may help modulate pain and inflammation, offering potential relief for chronic pain sufferers.
2. Is it legal to use CBD-infused topical creams for pain relief in the UK as of 2025?
As of 2025, CBD products, including topical creams, are legal in the UK provided they contain less than 0.2% THC. It's essential to purchase these products from reputable sources to ensure
compliance with legal standards and product safety.
3. Can transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) therapy effectively manage lower back pain?
Yes, TENS therapy has been shown to be effective in managing lower back pain by delivering mild electrical currents that interfere with pain signals and stimulate endorphin production. It's a non- invasive, drug-free method widely recommended for chronic pain conditions.
4. What are the safety considerations when using heat therapy for muscle stiffness and joint pain relief?
When using heat therapy, it's important to apply gentle warmth rather than intense heat to avoid burns. Always place a towel between the heat source and your skin, and limit application to 15-20 minutes per session. Individuals with conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular issues should consult a healthcare professional before use.
5. Are there any contraindications for using TENS machines in pain management?
TENS machines should not be used by individuals with pacemakers or certain types of heart conditions. Electrodes should not be placed on the front or sides of the neck, and the device should not be used while driving or operating machinery. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting TENS therapy.
6. How do topical anti-inflammatory painkillers compare to oral medications for
arthritis relief?
Topical anti-inflammatory painkillers can be effective for localised arthritis pain with potentially fewer systemic side effects compared to oral medications. They deliver the active ingredient directly to the affected area, which may reduce overall drug exposure and associated risks.
7. What is the recommended duration and frequency for applying heat therapy
to alleviate chronic joint pain?
For chronic joint pain, applying heat therapy for 15-20 minutes per session, several times a day, can help relieve stiffness and discomfort. However, the exact duration and frequency may vary depending on individual circumstances and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
8. Can combining cold therapy with CBD products enhance pain relief after a
cold plunge?
Applying CBD cream before or after a cold plunge may help reduce muscle soreness and promote faster recovery by increasing circulation. The combination of cold therapy and CBD can offer added relaxation benefits and aid in pain relief.
9. What precautions should be taken when using skin-numbing creams containing lidocaine for pain relief?
Skin-numbing creams with lidocaine should be used as directed to avoid potential side effects such as skin irritation or allergic reactions. It's important to apply the smallest effective amount and avoid using on large skin areas or broken skin. Consult a healthcare provider for proper guidance.
10. How does alternating between ice and heat therapy benefit arthritis pain management?
Alternating between ice and heat therapy can help manage arthritis pain by reducing inflammation with cold therapy and relieving stiffness with heat therapy. This approach can improve flexibility and provide comprehensive symptom relief.

Conclusion

Effective pain management in 2025 embraces a multifaceted approach, combining traditional methods with emerging therapies like hemp extract and TENS. Understanding the underlyingnmechanisms, staying informed about current research, and prioritising safety can empower ]individuals to make informed decisions about their pain relief strategies. Always consult with healthcare professionals to tailor treatments to your specific needs and ensure optimal outcomes.