No proof' that muscle rubs work

There is no convincing evidence that liniments and balms work on sore muscles and joints, say experts.

There are unlimited over-the-counter purchases and more than a million prescriptions a year for rubefacient rubs, giving a blood rush to the skin.

Cochrane researchers who looked at data from 16 studies looking at creams containing painkiller salicylate found no proven benefits.

They said other analgesic gels may well work, and recommended more research.