Many types of rubs and creams may give the feeling of warmth but do little to ease the pain felt with knee osteoarthritis. Capsaicin is different. It comes from the common pepper plant and works by getting the body to release chemicals that block pain. It does more than give a feeling of warmth on the skin. Clinical studies show that capsaicin is effective in easing pain from knee osteoarthritis. Be sure to check with your doctor before using it. Also, because it causes irritation, be sure to wash your hands after rubbing it on your knee to keep from accidentally rubbing it in your eyes or on other parts of your skin.