Most pain relief creams only relieve pain, but Aspercreme's Max Strength Pain Relief formula includes lidocaine, which actually numbs the pain. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that blocks nerves’ ability to send pain signals to the brain, making the cream a particularly effective pain reliever., “Pain relief creams work by stimulating a sensation, such as cooling, in the case of menthol-containing creams, which distract from the pain sensation,” explains Dr. Marcus. But there are different methods of action, depending on the ingredients., This pain cream claims to “outsmart pain on a molecular level” using resveratrol. Daily use is suggested to increase maximum effectiveness. Ted’s is my go-to for intense, burning nerve pain., , , .