It just keeps on hurtin'

According to "Pain is an Epidemic," an American Academy of Pain Management report, an estimated 50 million Americans live with chronic pain caused by disease, disorder, or accident. And an additional 25 million people suffer acute pain resulting from surgery or accident.

Non-disease/disorder aches and pains may stem from muscle tension, overuse, or injury resulting from exercise or physically-demanding work. MedlinePlus also notes that joint pain, which can be caused by many types of injuries or conditions, can be "very bothersome." And painful.

Welcomed news from OTC manufacturers – they've come up with new products and new packaging that will appeal to all of your hurting customers.

Boiron has re-packaged its Arnicare Gel product from a vertical to a horizontal package at the request of a national chain drug store. An established top-seller in the natural channel, it is gaining distribution in drug stores. The company's oral Arnica montana pellets are housed in a classic single-medication "blue tube" dispenser.

Prestige Brands has completed its purchase of several brands from GlaxoSmithKline, including BC Powder for headache, arthritis, and body pain relief; Goody's Powder pain reliever (contains aspirin, caffeine, and acetaminophen); and Ecotrin aspirin (with a safety coating that protects the stomach from upset and irritation caused by ordinary aspirins).