Acute Effect of Topical Menthol on Neck Pain

Danish: Integreret Motion på Arbejdspladsen (IRMA) English: Implementation of Exercise at the Workplace

Topical menthol gels are classified 'topical analgesics' and are used to relieve aching and tenderness of muscles and joints. However, double-blind randomized controlled trials are lacking. Here the investigators examine - in a double-blind randomized controlled cross-over trial - the acute effect of topical menthol (Biofreeze) and placebo (gel with a menthol scent) on neck pain.

Inclusion Criteria:

• more than 30 days with neck pain during the last year
• frequent pain or discomfort, defined as at least 3 days per week
• pain intensity at least 4 on a scale of 0-10
• working at least 30 hours per week

Exclusion Criteria:

• blood pressure above 160/100 mmHg
• pregnancy
• life-threatening disease