CBD for Pain

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is an active compound found in the cannabis plant. CBD will not get
you “high” as many cannabis products do but may cause a degree of drowsiness for some
people. The CBD in most products is extracted from hemp, which is a type of cannabis that is
also used for its fibers. Legally, CBD products may have up to 0.3% THC, the active compound
that gets people high.

CBD shows promise as a complementary, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic option for pain
management, though efficacy varies by pain type and delivery method. It works by interacting
with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate pain signaling and reduce inflammation.
Optimal CBD delivery methods and concentrations differ depending on the type of pain you are
targeting. The following are types of pain many people use CBD for.
− Arthritis
− Osteoarthritis
− Muscle pain from localized post-workout or injury soreness.

Arthritis refers to joint inflammation and degradation. According to the National Institute of
Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, arthritis is one of the most common causes of
pain among older adults.

Given its potential effect on inflammation, CBD has emerged as a possible treatment for pain
related to arthritis. In a 2022 study in the Journal of Cannabis Research, 83% of 428 participants
with arthritis or joint pain said using CBD led to pain reduction, with 66% noting improved
physical function and sleep quality. The following are some ways CBD can be delivered and
what it can do.

When applied directly to the skin, topical CBD like creams, salves, and ointments interact with
cannabinoid receptors in the local area without entering your bloodstream.

CBD can also be used for chronic, body-wide, and neuropathic pain. Chronic pain is defined as
experiencing discomfort for at least three to six months, according to an overview of the
condition in StatPearls Publishing, and is often related to other conditions, such as arthritis or
fibromyalgia. Given CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory activity, the cannabinoid may help
alleviate pain caused by inflammation in certain conditions.

CBD can also be orally ingested for maladies like these:
− Diabetic neuropathy

− Sciatica
− Back pain
− Fibromyalgia
− Other systemic pain

Oral ingestion can be done via CBD oils, tinctures, or edibles like gummies or capsules. Research
suggests that cannabinoids are particularly promising when treating nerve-related and
inflammatory conditions.

Many people prefer full-spectrum CBD, which contains trace amounts of THC alongside other
cannabinoids, as it can provide an enhanced effect for pain relief. For effective pain relief without
heavy psychoactive effects, look for CBD-dominant or balanced 1:1 CBD/THC strains. These
options reduce inflammation and neuropathy while keeping you mentally clear.

Here are some things to consider:
− Strains or products high in caryophyllene (great for arthritis) and myrcene (excellent for
muscle spasms).
− Smoking or dry-herb vaping CBD flower provides the fastest, almost immediate relief.
− Users frequently suggest pairing inhaled CBD with CBD-infused topicals for targeted,
localized pain.

CBD is generally well-tolerated, but it can interact with common over-the-counter medications
like ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen. It is strongly recommended to start with the
lowest possible dose and gradually increase it as needed, ensuring you don’t exceed the
product’s recommended usage.

Talk to your doctor before trying CBD if you take any of the following:
− Corticosteroids like prednisone
− Tofacitinib (Xeljanz)
− Celecoxib (Celebrex)
− Tramadol (Ultram)
− Certain antidepressants including amitriptyline (Elavil), citalopram (Celexa), fluoxetine
(Prozac), mirtazapine (Remeron), paroxetine (Paxil), sertraline (Zoloft)
− Certain medications for fibromyalgia, including gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin
(Lyrica)

The greatest concern for safety is when a CBD product contains other products that are not
identified on the label. Always consult with your doctor before beginning any new medication

or regimen or before stopping any medication or regimen. Check the reviews for all products
you are interested in.

For more information and to make appointments, write to us on our website or call us at (585)
442-6960.