I tried Voltaren Gel for lower back pain and did not get any relief. The Biofreeze helped for maybe an hour but thats it. I believe the back issue I had was to much for the Voltaren to help with. The Voltaren may be more useful for smaller joint issues. I also tried the Flector Patch with no relief. The flector patch has basically the same medicine as the Voltaren Gel. The Lidoderm patch has shown to relieve pain as well. This is basically lidocain in patch form and numbs the area. This is used for Shingles pain and has been shown to be effective in lower back pain. I know this information may not help your particular situation but someone may find it helpful. Good Luck!!