[header] How to manage pain with herbs [title] Apply arnica to your joints. [step] Rub an over-the-counter arnica gel, such as a. vogel arnica gel, directly onto the skin on painful joints 2-3 times a day for three weeks. This will reduce pain as well as stiffness, and improve joint function. 
Arnica may work especially well in reducing pain in your hands. [substeps] Arnica gel may also reduce pain associated with swelling, bruises, aches, and sprains.