It's time for my Relief Factor review – which is a joint supplement I really question:
- tricky price offer
- huge number of pills per day
- no real user opinions available
So could this product be a scam?
At first sight – I say there are high chances.
For this reason, I will try to analyze it in detail and find out the truth behind (with video).
Note: This review is based on my opinion + research on Relief Factor.
Review Summary
Full Name: Relief Factor by Promedev
Product Type: Pain Relief Supplement
Best Actual Price: $19.95 for the first 3 weeks, then $79.95/month
Cheapest Place To Buy: Its official website
Designed For: Inflammatory pain – which includes:
- chronic joint pain
- fibromyalgia
- inflammatory arthritis (RA or PsA)
It's not meant for joint pain specifically – but for any kind of inflammatory pain.
My Rating: 4 out of 10
Recommended?: Surely not – I consider it close to a scam:
- extremely high price (about $80 per month)
- you are forced to agree with auto-shipping
- very little info about the company behind
I personally recommend a $24 supplement that works excellent for the same problem (inflammatory pain).
Honestly – I would never pay so much on Relief Factor.
What I Liked About It
- Formula is pretty original
- Pills are quite easy to swallow
What I Didn't Like About It
- Comes as 2 different pills (you have to take both)
- You need at least 4 pills per day (even 12 at first)
- Very few real user opinions available online
- The opinions I did find were mostly negative
- Price offer is extremely tricky ($80 from the second month)
- You have to join their auto-shipping if you want to place an order
- Not available on any retailers
Relief Factor In A Nutshell
The first thing I would say about this product is that it has a few major problems:
- Little info on the company behind.
- Agreeing to their monthly auto-shipping is required.
- Price is extremely weird (starts at $20 and continues at $80).
For this reason – I strongly question its authenticity.
It also doesn't have any real user reviews anywhere (I only found 3 in comments).
In terms of formula – it doesn't look bad, but not excellent either.
That's why this kind of ingredients would never be worth $80 per month.
They might work – but other $30 products also work in the same manner.
So I strongly recommend not going for Relief Factor.
#1 – What It Is & Claims
Before I start my full analysis – I want to give you some info about this product in general.
How it can help, what it is, who is the company behind, etc.
1. Claims
In order to look like the best product on the market – Relief Factor makes some big promises.
According to its website, it claims to improve your body's response to inflammation:
- Reduces everyday aches and pain.
- It's Part of an integrated health plan.
- It's 100% drug free.
- Has 15 years of clinical practice behind.
- Based on botanical ingredients only (and fish oil).
Other than that – it doesn't claim to have anything special (which is true).
To be honest, I'm not very impressed by this product in any form.
2. Company Behind
Relief Factor is produced by a brand called Promedev.
This company seems to be based in Kirkland, WA.
However – I couldn't find any other info about it:
- no official website
- no contact details (phone, email, etc.)
So it's not quite a reputable/trustworthy company.
That's why I can't guarantee for Relief Factor's quality judging after its producer.
#2 – Formula (8 out of 10)
Relief Factor claims to have “a powerful combination of ingredients” against inflammation.
That's partially true, if you ask me.
Overall – the formula is far from bad, but it's not amazing either.
First of all – it does have an uncommon composition.
That's because it doesn't comes as one pills, but as 2.
Basically – it has 2 types of pills that have to be taken daily – each with a different formula:
- Capsules (with anti-inflammatory herbs)
- Softgels (with fish oil)
So let's analyze each one's formula by turn.
1. Capsules
As I said – its ingredients are mostly anti-inflammatory herbs.
There are 3 active compounds:
- Icariin – it's a strong antioxidant that can also fight inflammation. [1]
- Turmeric Phospholipid – it's an excellent anti-inflammatory herb.
- Resveratrol – it has a mechanism that can reduce inflammatory pain. [2]
Overall – this formula is quite uncommon, but it doesn't look bad at all.
There's one one thing I personally question – and it's related to turmeric:
- combined with phospholipids in this product
- this increases its absorption [3]
- however, it only contains 19% curcuminoides
- most products contain around 95%
Basically – this form of turmeric doesn't seem to be as concentrated as the one from most turmeric products.
This means the anti-inflammatory effect won't be as strong.
That's the major only thing I don't like about this formula.
2. Softgels
The ingredient list is pretty simple here: only one main active ingredient – fish oil.
This compound comes in 2 forms:
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid)
- DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
These 2 types of fish oil have common benefits – which include:
- supports a healthy inflammatory response
- keeps inflammation levels under control [4]
- promotes healthy tissues
- stimulates natural healing
Basically – fish oil is pretty good against inflammation.
So that's what these softegels' formula counts on.
Conclusion
Relief Factor has a pretty unusual formula:
- ingredients that aren't common in joint supplements
- unusual blends
- 2 different types of pills
Though it's not the best formula I have seen in a pain relief product – I can't say it's bad either.
Except for the weak form of turmeric – I actually think the ingredients look promising.
#3 – Pills & Dosage (4 out of 10)
Up next – I will give you some details about Relief Factor's pills and schedule.
From this point of view, it's very different from other supplements.
1. The Pills
As I mentioned before – this product has 2 types of pills:
- Capsules
- Softgels
You have to take both daily (together).
Now – in terms of dimensions, they don't look too bad:
- capsules have average dimensions
- they have a gelatin cover and powder inside
- that's what makes them quite easy to swallow
- softgels are a bit larger
- however, they are easier to swallow than regular capsules
Basically – swallowing these pills shouldn't be a problem for most people.
One interesting thing is that these pills come in packets.
A package contains 2 capsules and 2 softgels (which is the daily quantity).
So you won't have to take them from the bottle manually – only open a packets every day.
2. The Schedule
That's the major problem at this chapter.
Relief Factor requires taking 1 packets per day. (normally)
As I said before – that packets contains:
- 2 softgels
- 2 capsules
Basically – you need to take 4 pills a day, which is quite a lot.
Besides, the label recommends starting with 3 packets and lowering the number to 2 (when the discomfort decreases).
Also – you should switch to 1 after another several months/weeks (which is the standard dosage).
Now – this means you should start with 12 pills per day.
- that's literally impossible to take
- the product is going to run out in 1-2 weeks
So Relief Factor has a serious problem at this chapter, if you ask me.
#4 – Results (3 out of 10)
Here I will analyze previous users' opinions on Relief Factor.
In this way – you can see whether it works or not.
Note: I only included authentic reviews, not fake/promotional ones.
1. Positive Opinions
First of all – I found extremely few opinions on Relief Factor.
There are plenty of promotional reviews of it all over the Internet.
But I couldn't find more than 3 actual user reviews (and those were comments to promotional reviews).
For this reason, I won't be able to analyze Relief Factor from this point of view:
- all reviews I found were negative
- no opinions on trustworthy websites (like Amazon)
Now – Relief Factor does have some reviews on its official website.
But I strongly believe they are fake:
- all rated it excellent (5 stars out of 5)
- only praises from all customers
- no way to write your own review
For this reason – there's no way I can consider those.
2. Negative Opinions
The few real opinions I found on Relief Factor were negative.
The criticism was related to:
- No effect after some time
- Very expensive
- Bad customer practices
Now – since I found these complaints as comments to promotional reviews, I'm pretty sure they're real.
So this makes me quite sure that Relief Factor isn't as amazing as it claims to be.
It's only a personal opinion (since I don't have more evidence).
But if it was as good as it promises – I'm sure it would be highly praised all over the Internet.
Conclusion
Relief Factor doesn't have almost any real opinions online.
That's a bad sign itself – as this usually happens with products that are scamming people.
I can't tell if that's the case with Relief Factor as well.
But either way – it's not a product I would recommend any soon.
#5 – Side Effects (7 out of 10)
First of all – I didn't find enough opinions on Relief Factor.
For this reason, I won't be able to tell whether it causes side effects often or not.
So my analysis at this chapter will be based on its ingredients:
- Turmeric tends to cause side effects quite often.
- In most cases, it leads to digestive problems.
- Fish oil causes nausea, rashes, bad breath, etc.
- The other ingredients' side effects are less known.
Now – in case you're taking Relief Factor and you're experiencing these side effects, here's what you can do.
Make sure to take the pills with or after eating.
Never take them as an empty stomach (no matter what the label recommends).
This can make a big difference and cancel all the side effects you experienced before.
#6 – Price (2 out of 10)
That's the aspect that makes me consider Relief Factor a scam.
In terms of price – it's extremely unfair.
1. The Exact Price
Relief Factor uses a pretty different price strategy.
Compared to most pain supplements – it's way more expensive but it tries to hide this.
Let me explain:
- It has different prices for first and second buy.
- First supply costs $19.95 (plus $6.95 shipping).
- This is only available for 3 weeks.
- If you make the purchase, you will automatically be shipped a new supply in 15 days.
- However, this time it will cost $79.95 (plus $6.95 shipping).
- This continues every month.
- But the price is going to remain $79.95 plus shipping.
In other words – Relief Factor costs $80 per month, actually.
This is an absolutely huge price, if you ask me (especially for what it contains).
Not to mention that you're actually put on auto-shipping.
In case you don't agree with that – you can't purchase the product.
That's why I consider Relief Factor's practices unfair:
- they claim you can cancel the auto-shipping anytime
- but most products using this strategy make it hard for you to cancel
- there are lots of complaints online (not on Relief Factor)
- once you sign up for auto-shipping, they don't agree to take you off
- in this way, many people end up being charged huge amounts monthly
For this reason, I couldn't recommend a product like Relief Factor.
2. Competitors' Price
I only want to compare Relief Factor with my #1 recommended product for inflammation.
I'm talking about a supplement called Turmeric Plus:
- RF costs $19.95 for the first 3 weeks.
- Starting from the second time, it costs $80 per bottle.
- TP costs $24 per month (constant price).
- RF forces buyers to sign up to auto-shipping (otherwise they can't buy the product).
- TP doesn't have any auto-shipping program.
- RF doesn't offer any discount on larger orders.
- On the other hand, TP does.
- In this way, you can get it for about $16 per bottle.
For this reason – I think Turmeric Plus is a much better alternative.
There's no surprise it's my #1 recommendation for inflammatory pain, considering its price.
In terms of formula, it actually has a classic one (which is clearly strong).
So it definitely works – there are enough testimonials claiming so.
Overall – if you don't want to spend a small fortune on Relief Factor, I strongly recommend you this alternative.
Conclusion
Relief Factor has an incredible price strategy (in the worst way possible):
- affordable first month cost
- you have to join their auto-shipping
- price becomes huge from the second supply
Considering it's nothing better than many similar supplements – I definitely can't recommend it.
That especially when there's a much better alternative for 75% less money.
#7 – FAQs
Let's address the common questions regarding Relief Factor.
Note: I might repeat something I already mentioned, but it's easier to spot here.
1. What is the primary goal of this product?
Relief Factor aims to enhance the body's response to inflammation.
It promises to reduce everyday aches and pains.
These claims are attributed to its formulation, which is based on botanical ingredients and fish oil.
2. How do you consume this product?
Let me simplify the usage instructions for Relief Factor:
- Start with an initial dosage of 3 packets daily.
- When discomfort decreases, reduce it to 2 packets.
- After several months or weeks, follow the standard dosage of 1 packet only.
Now – each packet contains 2 softgels and 2 capsules.
So initially, you'll need a total of 12 pills per day.
Once you no longer feel discomfort, reduce your daily dosage to one packet.
3. Does one pack cover a month's supply?
Relief Factor's supply duration varies depending on usage stages.
The initial purchase offers a 3-week supply (approximately 42 packets).
This estimation is based on the 30-day supply, which consists of 60 packets.
It's quite challenging to determine the exact duration as daily intake depends on individual response.
But ideally, 60 packets should last for 30 to 60 days based on the provided usage directions.
4. Can it cause any adverse reactions?
Given the limited user feedback on Relief Factor, there's not enough info about its side effects.
But upon reviewing its ingredients, potential issues may arise.
For instance, Turmeric is known to cause digestive problems.
Additionally, fish oil may result in nausea, rashes, and bad breath.
It's essential to note that these occurrences are rare and can be avoided with proper precautions.
5. What are the pricing details of this product?
Relief Factor follows a unique pricing approach.
The first 3-week supply is priced at $19.95 plus a $6.95 shipping fee.
After that first purchase, supplies are automatically shipped every 15 days.
So the standard cost is actually $79.95 plus a shipping fee (approximately $80 per month).
#8 – Availability (6 out of 10)
Relief Factor can't be bought anywhere outside its official website:
not available on Amazon or Ebay- not sold on local/online pharmacies
Now – that's not necessarily a bad thing itself.
But since all user opinions are hidden on all websites – I couldn't have a positive opinion on it.
Plus – if you ask me, selling it only on its official website is a way of forcing you to go for auto-shipping:
- if you don't, you can't place any order
- in case it was available on Amazon, this wouldn't be possible
That's another extra reason why I don't recommend Relief Factor.
If you want to buy it – you can only get it from its official website.
And in this case, you will have to join their monthly shipping (which I don't recommend).
#9 – Relief Factor In 3 Conclusions
Here's how I would sum up my opinion on this product (in 3 ideas).
1. No Opinions
No matter how hard I searched – there was almost no real opinion on this product:
- I only found 2-3 experiences with it
- they were comments to promotional reviews
- all were rather negative
In most cases, this is a sign the producer wants to hide real people's opinions.
That's because they're usually negative.
I can't guarantee this is the case of Relief Factor as well.
But its lack of real opinions is definitely a bad sign.
2. Many Pills Per Day
This is a crucial aspect for me as a user:
- Relief Factor normally requires 4 pills per day
- however, the quantity is higher in the first month
- you need to take 12 pills/day in the first week
- starting from the second week, you can reduce it to 8
Now – 4 pills per day is a huge number.
So what could I say about 12 pills per day?
Most anti-inflammatory supplements require 2 on a daily basis.
Honestly, how could this compare to 12 (for the same effect)?
3. Tricky Price
Relief Factor doesn't have a standard price (as most supplements do):
- first 3 weeks supply costs around $20 plus shipping
- in order to buy it, you have to sign up for their auto-shipping
- from the second supply, it costs $80 plus shipping
Honestly – I don't know who could agree to pay $80 per month for a product like this.
I'm saying this because the market is full of quality products under $40.
So don't fall for this price trap.
$80 for an anti-inflammatory supplement is way too much.
My Verdict – Worth Or Not?
Short answer: Definitely not.
If you ask me – it's pretty close to a scam:
- Ingredients aren't extremely powerful and effective.
- You need 4 pills per day (or even 12 in the first week).
- No positive authentic opinions.
- Price offer is very tricky.
- Extremely expensive on the long term ($80 per month).
- You have to join their auto-shipping to buy the product.
Now – I'm not saying everything is bad about Relief Factor.
It definitely has positive things as well (its formula itself isn't bad).
But overall – I think it's more on the bad side than on the positive one.
For this reason, I couldn't recommend spending $80 per month on this supplement.
That especially when there are so many cheaper alternatives that work even better.
So what do I recommend instead?
A turmeric supplement called Turmeric Curcumin Plus:
- lowest price on the market
- strong formula and high dosages
- work for any kind of inflammatory pain
Compared to Relief Factor – this product is a much better alternative (in terms of quality/price).
So that's my personal suggestion.
References:
1 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/-pmc/articles/PMC6055068/
2 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/-pmc/articles/PMC6032205/
I actually like this product…my knee stiffness reduced a lot from the first days after starting to use it. But I feel like $80 is such a rip-off! Why would they charge you $20 for the first order then? They should charge you $80 from the start and see who’s gonna buy their products then. Product is great, too bad the company service is so bad and the price is such a mockery. Would not recommend.
Better buy cheap fish oil pills from Walmart, they’re not gonna work as well but you can double the dose and it’s still cheaper than Relief Factor.
Hi Pam, thanks for letting me know how this product worked for you. I’m glad you had positive results with it but unfortunately, its high price is a major downside. I totally agree with it regarding its price difference. But if you ask me, no one would order it if it cost $80 from the start. So the company found a way to attract customers and still force them to stay with the product (through auto-shipping). I agree that it’s not a fair one, but what can you do?
Regarding fish oil, I wouldn’t recommend buying any random supplement and taking it however you want. Supplements have a recommended dosage because they work best in that quantity. If you take less of it, there’s a risk that the effect is weaker. If you use more, there’s a much higher risk of side effects.
That’s why I recommend following the number of pills recommended by the label.
Also – Walmart supplements don’t always have the best doses and formulas. That’s why I personally prefer researching a supplement before I start using it.
In case you’re interested, here are the best fish oil supplements I found on the market. Some have great prices for the quality and all of them have excellent formulas (that’s why they’re on that list). Compared to random supplements made by local brands, I consider them a lot more professional and higher quality. Maybe this helps you get a stronger product.
Olly: The fish oils at Walmart are different. The Spring Valley brand is actually a company owned by Walmart (told to me by a Walmart employee, but I have not bothered to check on this to see if the statement is true). For years I have used Nature Valley and have had good results. This was after my doctor and I had a disagreement – she wanted me on Lovaza, at $70 for a 90 day supply. Talked her into letting me take the Nature Valley and now my Trigs and Cholesterol are manageable.
Hi Larry, thanks a lot for your feedback. I had no idea Spring Valley is owned by Walmart, this might explain their really low prices.
I would never pay that a month, with all my other meds I couldn’t even come close to affording that, this is for money people. I had relief at 71 years with my opioid till the government decided they’d save my life, now I lay in bed all day in pain wating to die from heath problems from inactivity. It’s not fair that those with real pain were thrown out with the bathwater to save drug addicts’ lives, who still get theirs from the streets.
Hi Drew, I’m sorry to hear about your issues, but have you tried something on a lower budget? Relief Factor is indeed expensive, which is the main reason why I don’t recommend it, but there are some much better alternatives that are way cheaper. I really recommend you to have a look at those. In case you can’t get another prescription of opioides, they can be really helpful.
I had such a terrible experience with this company!!! I ordered their product and agreed with their auto-shipping planning to sign off after the first 3 weeks. Got my product, saw no effect in 2 weeks so I called them to put me off their shipping list. They agreed without many questions. One week after I noticed my credit card had been charged $80 from a company with a different name (not the one that charged me for my initial order). After some phone calls to my bank I found out it was actually the payment for the next monthly supply of Relief Factor. I got super mad and called their company support who assured me it was a mistake and I will get a refund. It’s been 2 weeks now and there’s no sign of a refund into my account. I keep on calling them and they always reassure me it’s one its way but I’m sure it’s not. I will have my bank block any payments I don’t agree with. This company and their products totally suck!!
Hello Jim, thanks a lot for your feedback on Relief Factor! I’m so sorry you had such a negative experience with it. But unfortunately, you’re not the only one. I read lots of similar complaints from other disappointed customers.
However, your case might still have a solution. I think calling the company constantly is a great thing, in this way they should see you’re not letting them go away with it. You can also threaten with suing them, this might convince them to refund you if they don’t want trouble. Also, make sure your bank blocks all suspect transactions. If they charged you from a different account the second time, it’s very likely that they do it for the third time as well.
I’m pretty sure they will refund you in the end, especially if you keep calling and emailing them.
In case you need some legit recommendations for joint supplements, here are my top picks. Thanks again for sharing your experience with this brand and hopefully it helps other potential customers before placing an order for Relief Factor.
this is obviously a scam! I ordered the first supply and decided it was no worth so much money that I would have to pay for the second one. Guess what? They wouldn’t cancel my subscription by any means. I told them I was going to contact police so eventually they let it go. But a week later I was delivered another box from them that was already paid via my credit card. It’s obvious that I actually never made the transaction myself, they simply charged me without my consent. I called them back and was ready to file a complaint and call police, they got scared and refunded the money in 2 days.
Do not buy from this brand ever!!! Just few days ago I heard they’re in trouble with FTC for having many customer complaints regarding their shipping methods. Thank God this is finally happening! They deserve the worst for scamming so many people!
Hi Alfonso, thank you for sharing your experience with Relief Factor. Unfortunately, just like most people who tried it, you had a really negative experience with them. There’s nothing I can do about it, they’re obviously scammers who try to take advantage of honest people. If their product really worked, they wouldn’t condition the purchase with a subscription for auto-shipping.
I know they disagree to cancel it after the first order, I heard that from lots of previous customers. So the only solution is to spread the truth about this brand and its products and hopefully people will avoid them.
Regarding those news about FTC, I also heard them. But apparently, it’s all because the owner of the brand claims to be a doctor when he’s actually not. Plus, he made some videos stating the same and apparently he has no degree or anything, so he’s clearly lying. Here’s the article I read.
Thanks again for your feedback.
This month I have had 5 pill packages with only 3 pills inside. Please tell me why I was shorted?For a customer like me who is on SSI, and your product is very expensive.
It would be nice if you can credit me.
Thank you, Kathleen Johnston
Hi Kathleen, I’m sorry I cannot help but this is only an unbiased review of Relief Factor, I don’t have any connection with the company so there’s no way I can get you in touch with them, refund you or anything related to your orders.
This stuff is garbage. I ordered the three week quick start which ended up costing 27.00. Then I received the first full order. I didn’t have any improvement in my pain after 7 weeks but they shipped another order before I could cancel. In short i ended up wasting 185.00 on 3 bags of junk that did absolutely nothing to relieve my pain. These celebrities who endorse this deal should be ashamed for deceiving people who trust them.
Hi Larry, thanks for your feedback and sorry to hear you had such a negative experience with Relief Factor. But I’m sure that next time – you will research a product a lot more before making the purchase. Best wishes!
If I have to look at the father and son as one more time I am going to barf!
They are so proud of themselves for creating a discount! WOW, that is impressive.
I would never try this product just because the father and son are so irritating.
Their ads are so bad, the father looks bloated and his son has a bobble head nodding like his head is on a spring. Yuk!
Thanks for your feedback om Relief Factor, Don. I know they run a lot of ads, some of them are really weird.
Thank you for your in depth review. I’m a long time sufferer of multiple joint pain causes. So I’m willing to try just about anything. This, to me, seemed to border on a placebo. Sadly, many people will respond to anything, if the pitchman, appears credible. Then they waste money, theyoften, cannot afford.
I think books like your provide a real service, by raising the “scam” potential in peoples minds. I hope your book is successful, and that you’ll consider a sequel.
Hi Steven, sorry to hear about your struggle with joint pain. So from what I understand, you haven’t actually tried Relief Factor, right? If you haven’t, I don’t advise you to try it either, the product itself is not terrible but it’s not worth the money at all. What I can recommend you are glucosamine and chondroitin supplements, they make the best option I know against osteoarthritis. I don’t know what exact form of arthritis/joint pain you’re dealing with, but you should check my top recommended products, as I give out all the details about what issues each product works best for.
Hope this helps!
I got relief Factor I tried to the first month of it I didn’t know I was getting another package it took out $86.90 out of my bank kept on calling always get that answering service I finally told him I had to talk to customer service got my money back I sent a package back refused did it work not for neuropathy I need help !!!!
Hi Albert, thanks a lot for sharing your experience with Relief Factor and sorry it didn’t help you at all. But keep in mind that Relief Factor is designed for joint pain and arthritis, not for neuropathy. If you’re dealing with the last, I recommend you a totally different mix of ingredients: Benfotiamine + R-Alpha Lipoic Acid + Methylcobalamin + Vitamin B6 + Herbal Extracts. Now, the best version of this formula can be found in a product called Nerve Renew, which is by far my #1 recommended neuropathy product. I had many of my readers trying it (with great results) and the product itself has a great user feedback overall. In terms of price, it’s actually a bit cheaper than Relief Factor, so you should normally be able to afford it.
Hope this helps!
Dr. Pharm —
One of your concerns was that you had few real reviews. Mine is a genuine review you can trust. And the fact that it took a long time to type should underscore the fact that it is real. I just ask that you not use my full name (or eMAIL) AND respond with your best suggestion for relieving my pain. Fyi, I have been experiencing arthritus related right leg pain and sciatica for over 5 years.
My review is based only on one thing: Did it work? The answer to Relief Factor is a resounding NO !!!
I don’t care how much it cost, or the number of pills a day I would have to take, the taste of the pills, or who Relief Factor’s spoke persons are or anything else. I just want relief from my pain. And fortunately for me, expense is not my concern.
I ordered Relief Factor’s Quick Start (49 pill packets) and took 3 packets everyday. Just before I ran out of the Quick Start packets, I ordered the additional full month’s supply (60 packets) … and continued taking 3 packets a day until they were almost gone. Then I dropped down to 1 packet a day for the last week because I wanted to make certain I would limit any possibility (however remote) in any dependance on them.
The ONLY (very minor) relief I got from them was in the reduction of night-time leg cramps. NOTHING ELSE. I did not consider the roughly $120 I spent on Relief Factor as being a scam. I just considered it money well-spent in checking it off my list of possible pain relief medications. And I was hoping beyond hope that Relief Factor would do it. Fyi, I have taken Glucosamine Chrondroitin for about 15 years. And it has worked well in terms of addressing my right knee “locking up” on me when I fly fished. I also recently took Costco’s 3 month supply of Qunol Turmeric. But like Relief Factor, it did nothing.
I have seen 5 Orthapedic Surgeons over the last year and have had MRIs, Cat Scans and all sorts of other things done. The most effective treatment was a shot delivered by an Orthopedic Doctor directly into my right hip area where the pain seems to initiate. Unfortunately those shots can only be given twice a year and its effect wears off in a little over a month. I have also taken every over-the-counter pain relief medication you can think of (Aspirin, Advil, Tylenol, Voltaren, and even a Roll on liquid called “Pain Relief”). None have addressed my problem. And since I enjoy 3 alcoholic drinks a day, it is not recommended I use most of them anyway. So I don’t take or use them. Sorry. I will continue to drink wine.
I had lower back problems about 18 years ago. The Orthopedic doctor I had then prescribed Physical Therapy sessions including the use of a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device. At that time it required a doctor’s prescription to get a TENS so I asked for … and got … a Rehabilicare Promax unit. At the time it was a fairly high end unit (about $725 but (I got it for $230 through my doctor’s discount). But given the fact that essentially ALL of my doctors have said that my current pains need the physical treatments that attack “nerves going wild”, it occurred to me to give my TENS unit another try on my current pains.
And guess what? IT ISN’T PERFECT BUT IT’S THE ONLY THING THAT HAS GIVEN ME HOPE FOR RELIEVING MY PAIN !!! I would rate it as being about 80% effective. But I still experience extreme right leg pain and sciatica if I sit in most chairs (ones that are too soft and not of good support) too long.
So, in a nutshell, I do not have any negative feelings about Relief Factor nor do I consider it a scam. It just didn’t work for me. For those that it does, wonderful … at whatever price or perceived inconvenience.
Doctor, I just ask you for your advice … just as I have been extremely candid with you in this review. Btw, your note above says that my eMail address will not be published. So I have given you is one created just for you. So if you give it to the world I will know exactly who did it. Sorry, I get too many scam eMails on my other eMail addresses. But I think you having the knowledge of my experiences will help you help others.
On a totally unrelated subject, may I recommend you suggest to people with skin ecsema/cracking problems try “Working Hands”? After 34 years of cracking hands, like Relief Factor, I saw it advertised on TV and tried it. I have no relationship to that company but that product is essentially a Miracle Drug. It not only relieved my hand cracking problems but essentially CURED them! And you can buy it at your local Home Depot’s paint department of all places! I have given it to my plumber, electrician, all my friends and ALL of them agree that it is a miracle product. I loved it when people tell me about things such as this …..
— Bill
Hi Bill, thanks a lot for sharing your experience with Relief Factor in such an objective manner, these kind of reviews are exactly what I need to hear. And no worries, your email address is not published anywhere, so you’re safe.
So from what I understood from your comment:
– turmeric did not work for you at all
– glucosamine and chondroitin did help (I’m not sure what you stopped taking them)
– the shots in your hips really helped, but the effect goes away before you’re allowed to get a new shot
You mentioned you have both leg arthritis and sciatica. Did the treatments you tried help you with both? I usually recommend 2 different things for arthritis and sciatica, because they have a totally different cause. Also, what glucosamine and chondroitin supplement did you try and why did you stop taking it?
Answering these questions will really help me give you some recommendations.
Dr. Pharm —
Many thanks for your kind, caring, and timely response.
I must have not been clear relative to the glucosamine and chondroitin pills. I never stopped using it. While the FDA has no proof that it works for addressing things like the joint locking I was experiencing, it worked for me. As I said in my review of Relief Factor, I really don’t care what the price or who the spokes person is, if it works I will keep using it. So I’ve been taking one “Move Free” every day for at least 15 years. It addresses the “locking up” issues but I have never taken it for sciatica.
Re the TENS unit, since I wrote that first review, I tried it on the sciatica I have been experiencing in my lower right leg/shin area. I’ve only used the TENS on it once but, as you suggested, it did not seem to have any effect. That’s OK. I’ve learned that almost all medical treatments don’t necessarily work in just one treatment. I’ll keep trying and let you now how it goes.
But after over 5 years (and 5 Orthopedic Surgeons looking at me) one couldn’t believe how the others missed it. In fact he used an expression I find personally amusing. He showed me an X-Ray and said “you don’t have to be a Rocket Scientist” to see where your problem is. With a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, I actually am a Rocket Scientist.
The funny thing about it is that the pain seems to shoot all around the right hip joint. The one Orthopede that gave me my first (steroid ?) shot directed it exactly at that spot. But the second time she gave one there AND to the spot very close to it where I said I many (but not all) times felt the pain. That second set of shots really helped (very quickly) but within a month or so the pain was back.
What I REALLY like about the TENS is that I can move the electrodes about on my hip (and/or lower back and butt) to treat a wide set of locations near my hip. You didn’t ask but I will also tell you that, for me, the “burst” setting on my TENS with 30 minute treatment lengths and at 45-55% strength settings seem to work best. The “modulate” setting feels good but doesn’t seem to have as much affect. Since I wrote to you, I have been trying to do a session before I get out of bed in the morning and again when I go to bed at night.
I worked very hard before retiring and made some great investments. As such I am far more focused on Pain Relief than Expense (sorry if that offends some). But apparently the cost of TENS units have come down immensely since I got mine … and are now even available at many nationally known drugstores without a prescription.
In the last few years I have learned that Arthritis is apparently incurable. I think that’s why I told you about “Working Hands” (that creme for crackling skin, especially on one’s hands).
Arthritis also isn’t treatable like a tooth cavity or broken leg. I had a torn Rotator Cuff in my right shoulder. While that (very painful and LONG) recovery wasn’t fun or 100% effective, at least it no longer gives me the pain of Arthritis.
PLEASE feel free to send me personal eMails to the address I have provided … as I know you might prefer to review some of my comments before they are broadcast to your entire readership.
In a nutshell, I think that ANYONE that has had pains such as mine would loved to know what has (and has not) worked for me. I wish someone could have shared “Working Hands” with me before a spent 34 years, and lots of money on expensive drugs) to essentially CURE, not relieve, my condition.
I really appreciate any suggestions you may have …..
Thanks — Bill
Thanks for the review! I’ve got to say that this product is really suspicious. $80 dollars plus??? Who does that? Thankfully I’ve found your review before signing up for this scam. Even if it works, I don’t think I can sustain this in the long run!!
Hi Cece! I agree with you. The drastic change from 20 dollars into 80 dollars really seem suspicious. There were definite red flag signs from the lack of retailers to the numerous negative comments found online about this product. I hope more people would come out to tell the truth about this product so that we can all build awareness towards this product (or for any product that only scams people off their money). I also think that expensive products such as this can make people reluctant–especially with the ongoing pandemic. As such, cheaper products with legit company behind like Vita Balance’s Turmeric Curcumin Plus can be one of the best options.
I hate their ads! I hate everything about them. This company made everything hard for me and I am not free enough to do everything. I’m a mom of 4 and all I wanted was to ease the pain but this rip-off only made my life harder, 80$ a month??? I ended up purchasing things that ended up not having any worth. Hope that I can get my refund soon because I did not sign up for this scam!!
I’m so sorry this happened to you, Alysa. I also think that advertisement has a lot of power over consumer’s decision making so we should really be critical of them (since there are a lot of companies that doesn’t care about consumers). As for your pain, I can relate… It is hard to take care of kids while enduring. I certainly recommend Turmeric Curcumin Plus for you. It works, has no false advertisement, and very affordable. I really hope that you get your refund.
Many thanks for the kind responses from those who appear to be benefiting from avoiding some lack-of-effectiveness of products I have tried. Again, I am not trying to throw criticism at companies … just give an unbiased response on what has or has not worked for me.
As of this date, the only thing that seems to work is my TENS unit. And, only costing a couple batteries every couple weeks (after the initial expense of buying one), it appears to be the best price-performing one too.
I have also now tried “Austrailian Dream” and several of Papa & Barkley’s CBD products. I had heard as many great recommendations about the Austrailian Dream as I did for Relief Factor. But it did not work either. That said AND TO THEIR CREDIT, Austrailian Dream followed up promptly on their “empty jar” refund. They sent me a check for the $35 I paid for it very quickly after I sent in the empty jar. Sure it cost $5 to send it to them, but I think we would all agree that is FAR better than most of the others we’ve tried.
Re Papa & Barkley’s CBD products, I have only tried both the regular CBD Releaf (nice double entendre don’t you think) Balm and regular and 1:3 Releaf Body Oils. So far it feels good to rub them on but that’s about where it ends. But unless you were a Marijuana “user” you really have no clue which of these products to get … other than by taking your friend’s advice. My best buddy told me the regular CDB Balm was the only thing that ever worked for him. Unfortunately it did not work for me. (BTW, he just had a hip replacement which appear to really be working for him now.)
On the other hand I must be one of the only people you meet that has never used drugs that were not prescribed by a Doctor or were available over the counter. So other than being able to instantly recognize the the smell of a Marijuana joint, I didn’t have a clue how (or where) to order CBD products. There is regular CBD, a more powerful CBD noted as being 3:1, and even more THC powerful versions referred to as 1:3. The first number is the Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) component and the second number is the THC (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, the non-psychoactive acid form of THC found in the Marijuana plant in raw form). Used as “topicals” they are supposedly non-hallucinogenic.
But they are no cheap. Look up Papa & Barkley’s website … but the Balms are $60-$90 for a 50ml jar and the Releaf Oils $40-$60 for small spray bottle. I’ve now bought about $200 of their products without any relief.
And just when I thought I would be the only one in my family experiencing Arthritis pains, my wife essentially got the same osteo- arthritis as me! But given my 5+ years of experience AND the fact that this retired Fortune 10 exec can get things done, I got my wife a Orthapaedic cortisone shot in record time.
But the Orthapaed also prescribed Meloxicam and our GP prescribed Cyclobenzaprine for her pain. BOTH seem to be addressing it very well, for now. Our GP also prescribed Hydocodone-Acetaminophen for use ONLY when her pain cannot be controlled otherwise. The Hydrocodone is a narcotic and something to be taken ONLY under a Doctor’s prescription … and very selectively at that.
Sorry for the long-winded update. But a couple of minutes reading my review may save you lots of money and time in resolving your pain
Thanks for this very detailed update, Bill, it’s really helpful. Best wishes for you!