DMSO is an aprotic solvent. meaning it doesn't have H+ or OH- and can dissolve just about anything. which is why it crosses the transdermal membrane and makes it one of the better solvents used in the field of pharmaceutical compounding. (other solvents, such as ethylene oxide are also used but not part of the discussion)
DMSO is also one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory chemical/drugs found to date. but only approved for animal use.
It is also used as a bladder irrigation is some types of kidney infections.
side effects to local areas can be dry scaly skin, redness, (caused by increased blood flow- not histamine release)
don't be surprised if some folks have already added a bottle of CBD to a bottle of DMSO for arthritis relief and not told anybody here.
If you have severe joint pain and want medication that doesn't affect the rest of the body, just acting locally without liver degradation.
have your doc. call in
an anticholinergic ie. amitriptyline pain relief is ketamine anti-inflammatory diclofenac
either in DMSO or a transdermal cream
or because your not really in pain, and anecdotal internet and 30% of pain relief from over the counter meds. are placebo effect anyway.
