Last Updated on July 10, 2023 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that with the help of a cream, various bone and joint diseases can be cured in a few weeks without any side effects. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A Facebook post advertising a product displays a video showing that several bone and joint conditions were treated within a few weeks after applying a cream. The caption of the post reads, “
The video gained 15k likes, 2.1k comments and 3.1 million views until we last checked.
Fact Check
Is treating all orthopedic diseases and conditions possible with a single product?
No. It is not possible to treat all orthopedic diseases and conditions with a single product. Orthopedic diseases and conditions consist of a wide range of issues affecting the musculoskeletal system. It includes the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Orthopedic problems can include fractures, arthritis, sprains, strains, tendonitis, spinal disorders, and more.
The treatment approach for the specific orthopedic disease or condition varies depending on the specific diagnosis and severity of the condition. The treatment includes a multidimensional approach. Here, the most common treatment modalities include non-surgical interventions such as physical therapy, medication, braces, and assistive devices and surgical interventions like joint replacement, fracture fixation, or spinal surgery, depending upon the condition.
Tailored treatment is needed for a specific condition and the overall health of the patient that addresses the specific underlying causes and symptoms. Therefore, there is no single product or treatment that can effectively treat all orthopedic diseases and conditions. Proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are pivotal to addressing the diverse range of orthopedic conditions and providing optimal care for each individual patient.
Can a cream treat various orthopedic conditions?
No. There is no scientific evidence to prove that a single cream can treat various orthopedic conditions. Creams or topical treatments aid in managing certain orthopedic conditions, particularly those involving localized pain, inflammation, or mild soft tissue injuries. However, creams alone typically cannot treat the underlying causes of most orthopedic conditions.
Any topical creams can provide only temporary relief from symptoms such as pain, inflammation, or muscle soreness. They often contain ingredients like analgesics (pain relievers), anti-inflammatories, or counterirritants that work by numbing the area, reducing inflammation, or providing a cooling or warming sensation. These creams can be applied directly to the affected area, allowing the active ingredients to be absorbed through the skin. The product endorsed in the advertisement directed us to an e-commerce page that sells the product called, “Perfectx Instant Concentrate Cream.”
As seen on the page, it claims to have ingredients like Chondroitin, Vitamin K2, Methylsulfonylmethane, arnica montana flower extract and glucosamine. All of these have properties that might aid in treating the symptoms, such as pain, inflammation, etc, but cannot cure the disease. Also, there are several types of musculoskeletal diseases and these can’t help with all of them.
Dr Rachit Gulati, Medical Director at SAAOL Ortho Care clarifies this by stating, “There are a lot of topical diclofenac (a potent painkiller), capsaicin, lignocaine and other ointments or gels in the market which can only offer an extremely short-lived symptomatic relief when rubbed on the skin. However, the level of evidence is very low. These preparations, in no way, can alter or modify the disease process and cure deformities. One must take proper holistic treatment comprising oral medications, injectables, rehabilitation, orthosis, diet and other lifestyle changes for proper long-lasting management of the pinpoint cause of body pain.”
Additionally, certain orthopedic conditions, such as osteoarthritis, joint deformities, spinal cord injuries, etc., can be irreversible, i.e., the damage or changes that occur cannot be fully reversed or healed completely. The extent of irreversibility depends on the specific condition and its severity. However, even in cases where a condition is irreversible, there are often treatments and interventions that can improve symptoms, restore function, and enhance the quality of life.
In conclusion, while topical creams can offer symptomatic relief, they are not a comprehensive solution for all orthopedic conditions. Orthopedic conditions often require a multifaceted treatment approach, which may involve other interventions like physical therapy, medication, injections, or in some cases, surgery. These treatments target the underlying cause of the condition, promote healing, and restore function.
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