Both pain relief patches and muscle relief creams are topical products, which means you apply them directly to your skin. Because they have similar applications and use cases, one isn't necessarily better than the other. When deciding which type to use, consider the active ingredients in the product and the location where you want to apply it. Since patches usually include either an anti-inflammatory or a mild anesthetic, many people use them for longer-term pain relief. These patches often work best on larger, flatter surfaces, such as the back. They work less well on uneven areas and joints. In contrast, muscle relief ointments can be ideal for uneven areas and joints, such as elbows and knees. If you've found that your aches and pains respond well to active ingredients like methyl salicylate or capsaicin, creams and ointments could offer relief.