CBD can provide pain relief in several ways, from pills and edibles to vaping. Speak with your physician about how best to integrate CBD into your pain management strategy.
A 2019 study demonstrated the efficacy of Sativex at alleviating both nociceptive (affecting body tissue) and neuropathic pain (affecting nerves). CBD may also assist with nerve-related discomfort caused by certain medicines like chemotherapy-based agents, like Paclitaxel.
Cannabidiol (CBD)
At this time of opioid overdose and abuse, those living with chronic pain are turning to natural solutions such as CBD for pain relief. CBD is a nonintoxicating natural compound which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort; however, more research needs to be completed in order to make sure its safety and efficacy.
Cannabis has garnered great attention as a potential treatment for chronic pain, with researchers exploring its mechanisms. Some studies indicate that CBD may reduce pain by inhibiting production of inflammatory compounds or binding with specific receptors in the brain.
Small-scale trials conducted by single centers have demonstrated CBD’s analgesic properties in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, but their findings are insufficient for clinical use. As of now, only one FDA-approved prescription contains CBD: Epidiolex, used to help control seizures in children suffering rare forms of epilepsy.
Cannabinoids
Medicinal cannabis has long been used to manage neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis patients. Clinical trials often report changes in pain severity; several other studies report changes to quality of life but the results vary widely. Some studies reported the use of medicinal cannabis as an add-on therapy, though results were mixed. Studies examining medicinal cannabis’s effectiveness against central neuropathic pain associated with spinal cord injury or fibromyalgia frequently reported concomitant use of other drugs; such as paracetamol, carbamazepine gabapentin metamizole) analgesics like paracetamol carbamazepine gabapentin metamizole metamizole as well as muscle relaxants such as baclofen clonazepam duloxetine nortriptyline).
Brain receptors known as CB1 and CB2 bind cannabinoid molecules. Their system is controlled by natural endogenous ligands called endocannabinoids which act like natural keys to connect these receptors together and make them act in certain ways, including control over neurotransmitter release, pain perception, cardiovascular, gastrointestinal and liver functions.
Arthritis
Certain forms of arthritis can cause joint pain and stiffness. While traditional medications help manage symptoms, they do not repair damage or treat the condition directly. Natural therapies may offer relief while simultaneously improving joint function and helping ease any associated discomfort.
Exercise — including low-impact cardio workouts and stretching exercises — can strengthen muscles that support joints, improve balance, and help to keep joints flexible. A physical or occupational therapist can create an individualized exercise program without harming any of your joints.
Acupuncture — the practice of inserting needles at specific points on the body to stimulate nerves, muscles and connective tissues while increasing blood flow and activating natural painkillers — may provide temporary relief of joint pain. Massage also offers relief by increasing circulation and relaxing tense muscles.
Fish oil may help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis; however, studies are limited and its use should only be undertaken after consulting your physician first. As fish oil may interact with certain medications and disrupt treatment regimens, before considering trying it.
Side Effects
CBD supplements are generally safe when used at recommended dosages; however, some individuals may experience side effects. CBD can interact with some drugs, including clobazam (Zofran), lamotrigine (Lamictal) and valproate (Epidiolex), as well as interfering with enzymes responsible for breaking down other medications; this can result in too much or too little of certain drugs being present in your system, potentially decreasing effectiveness or increasing risks.
Animal and human studies indicate that CBD could assist those struggling with opioid addiction to avoid substance use disorder. A 2019 double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated this by showing CBD reduced anxiety and impulsivity triggered by drug cues for abstinent participants suffering heroin use disorder.
Sativex, an approved CBD-based botanical drug in the UK for treating rheumatoid arthritis, has shown promise as an adjunctive therapy, helping improve pain during movement and sleep quality for those living with rheumatoid arthritis when combined with conventional treatment approaches. More research needs to be conducted into how effective CBD medication compares against others for treating both rheumatoid arthritis as well as chronic conditions that cause pain.
