Topical CBD for Arthritis Pain Relief: Does it Work?

Cannabidiol, often known as CBD, is a natural remedy that is derived from the cannabis sativa plant and is excellent at reducing pain in the body. Studies conducted on animals have proved that CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving capabilities.

Many studies have shown that topical CBD is an effective alternative for symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. Moreover, many people suffering from arthritis pain who used CBD reported significant pain relief, improved sleep, and decreased worry. It was in 2018 that the United States removed hemp from its list of controlled substances, and because of this, studies indicating the use of CBD are very few. This article will provide an insight into the use of topical CBD for arthritis pain relief.

Arthritis And Its Causes

Arthritis is a chronic disorder that occurs due to the swelling and tenderness of the joints. It is often known for the acute or chronic inflammation of one or more joints, the sleep disorder, and the anxiety problems it causes. Patients with arthritis experience chronic pain, which, if left untreated, can lead to serious health conditions like crippling.  Although it is typically thought of as a single disorder, arthritis actually refers to both joint pain and disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the two most common kinds of arthritis among the many. It may result in disorders such as swelling, joint stiffness, joint abnormalities, a reduced range of motion, and other symptoms. Being overweight, having an autoimmune condition, and having an injured joint that subsequently develops post-traumatic arthritis are the main causes of arthritis.

Many innovations have been made in the field of arthritis treatment, and people often go for traditional remedies to get relief from chronic pain. The use of CBD is one such innovation that has become popular in recent years as a natural remedy for arthritis pain management. It has  So, this article will take you through all the necessary details you need to know about CBD and how it works for arthritis pain relief.

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is an essential ingredient derived from the hemp plant of medical marijuana. The CBD is obtained from naturally grown hemp plants and then processed in laboratories to derive its pure form. The CBD is one of the hundred components of marijuana, and it will not cause any adverse effects on your body or make you high. 

A report from the World Health Organisation(WHO) says that CBD does not have any harmful impact on people who use it. It also adds that there is presently no information indicating that using pure CBD causes any issues with public health.

Cannabinoids, which are extracted from the cannabis plant, are the basis for all CBD products, including oils, creams, lotions, and gummies. This extract is made available for topical use and consumption by mixing or diluting it with other products. It was in 2018 that the United States removed CBD from the list of controlled substances, thus removing it from the definition of marijuana. It also legalised the production of hemp if it is grown within the parameters of the law. On the other hand, animal studies and reports from experienced users indicate that CBD is effective in reducing arthritis to some extent.  

How CBD works on your body?

According to research, CBD has a number of benefits that can help reduce chronic arthritis pain and the symptoms associated with it. Studies show that CBD, when applied topically to the skin, could help reduce pain and inflammation caused by arthritis.   Topical CBD is available in a number of forms, including creams and oils that can be applied directly to painful spots. When applied, CBD will interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to reduce symptoms of pain.

The endacannabinoid receptor present in the ECS contributes to the regulation of the ECS process. These receptors interact with the signals sent to the brain, thereby reducing the pain. Although there is no known treatment for arthritis pain, research suggests that CBD may help with some of the pain, anxiety, and inflammation caused by the condition.

Different forms of CBD available

CBD is a natural alternative that can be beneficial for reducing arthritis-related pain. It is available in different forms, like cream, balm, oil, and gummies. All such products are made from the cannabinoids extracted from the cannabis plant and they do not have any tetrahydrocannabinol’s psychoactive effects (THC). The usage of CBD lessens arthritis-related chronic pain and inflammation. Research demonstrates that CBD users have noticeable pain reduction, better sleep, and less anxiety. Such products do not produce any high in people who use it. 

The different CBD products available can be classified into different categories based on how they are used. It can be taken orally in the form of capsules or liquids that get digested. Topical products like balms, lotions, and creams are applied directly to the skin to get relief from pain. Another form in which CBD can be consumed is through inhalation.

Things to take care of while using CBD 

Arthritis is a common disorder with no permanent cure; the treatments available work only to lessen symptoms and enhance quality of life. Recent studies have found that the use of CBD helps reduce pain and other conditions related to arthritis. Here is a set of guidelines to be followed while using CBD. 

• Make sure that the CBD is a component of a comprehensive pain management strategy that also includes non-drug solutions and psychological assistance.

• When choosing a CBD product, look for one that has undergone through GMP certifications and independent testing for potency, safety, and purity.

• Inform your medical professionals of your intended and continuing CBD use, monitor your pain and change prescriptions with your medical doctors.

• Try to set the initial treatment objectives to be achieved within a reasonable time frame.

• Begin with an oral treatment by taking a small amount of CBD twice daily,  and then increase the dosage if needed. 

• As soon as you notice any unpleasant side effects from a CBD product, stop using it immediately and inform your doctor. 

Is CBD safe to use?

Studies conducted on animals have proved that CBD is helpful in reducing chronic pain. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that CBD is an effective arthritis treatment for humans. But evidence from experienced users has been reported on the effectiveness of CBD on arthritis related pain. Studies are being conducted on the effectiveness of CBD as a solution for arthritis pain. The studies made so far seem to suggest that taking CBD does not result in any adverse effects.

Further research is needed to confirm the safety and potential effects of CBD on humans. Depending on the dosage of CBD, it can cause side effects like nausea, fatigue, and irritability. So it is recommended that you seek the advice of a doctor before trying any form of CBD. However, according to reports from the WHO, CBD is typically well tolerated by people and has no negative side effects. Furthermore, since CBD does not have the same risk of misuse as cannabis, it is not the source of the high that many people associate with cannabis.

Final Take

CBD is a natural alternative that is rich in ingredients and can help reduce acute and chronic arthritis-related pain in humans. It works by interacting with the receptors that send signals to the brain, thus reducing the pain and inflammation. The WHO reports suggest that using CBD under the advice of a doctor is safe, as your body can adapt well to it. Despite all the obstacles, the drug is becoming legal in a number of nations as research advances and shows encouraging results.