If you suffer from persistent arthritis pain, you may be interested in cannabidiol (CBD) as a treatment. CBD Joint Rub contains CBD, as well as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other compounds. But, unlike THC, CBD is not “psychoactive,” which means it does not produce the intoxication or high that marijuana produces.

There’s a strong possibility you’ve tried it already: according to a conducted in August of 2019, over 14% of Americans use CBD products, with pain being the most common reason. The Dr. K CBD Foundation conducted its own research, which revealed that 29% of respondents were now taking CBD , and over 80% were either using it, had used it in the past, or were contemplating it. The majority of people who used it reported improved physical function, sleep, and well-being; however, a minority claimed relief in pain or stiffness.

Perhaps you’ve been tempted to give it a shot. After all, traditional medications do not cure most types of arthritis, and CBD Joint Rub is regarded a less addictive alternative to opiates. Perhaps it’s the marketing, which promotes CBD products for anything from arthritis to anxiety to seizures. The advertisements are difficult to ignore. (As I was typing this, my email preview pane revealed a message that appeared to leap off the screen: CBD Has Helped Millions!! Try It For Free Right Now!)

What is the proof that it works? And what do experts advise? Until recently, there was little study and much less counsel available to people (or their doctors) interested in CBD products, which are now increasingly legal and frequently advertised.

A note on Arthritis Discomfort

It is important to note that there are over 100 different varieties of arthritis, and while pain is a common component of all of them, these disorders do not all behave the same way. What works for one person may not work for another. All varieties of arthritis are treated with the goal of minimizing pain and stiffness while maintaining function. However, for some disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, conventional prescription medications are highly recommended since they help avoid irreversible joint damage and handicap worsening.

Furthermore, different people experience pain and respond to treatment in various ways. As a result, it’s quite improbable that a single CBD-containing product will help for everyone with every type of arthritis.

What Evidence Do you have that CBD is Useful for Chronic Arthritic Pain?

While there are laboratory studies indicating that CBD may be a promising approach, as well as animal studies demonstrating anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, well-designed human studies demonstrating compelling evidence that CBD Joint Rub is safe and effective for chronic arthritis pain do not exist. A randomised study of topical CBD for knee osteoarthritis has been published, but only in abstract form (meaning it is a preliminary report that summarises the research and has not yet been extensively evaluated); the trial lasted just 12 weeks, and the findings were mixed at best. One of the greatest studies looked at the health effects of cannabis and CBD and found “strong evidence that cannabis is an effective treatment for chronic pain in adults.” However, no precise conclusion was reached about CBD Joint Rub, possibly due to a lack of definitive studies.

Of course, there is anecdotal data and testimonials aplenty, including tales of substantial reduction in pain from patients who tried CBD in its different forms (including pill, liquid, topical, and spray). However, we are still waiting for well-designed, scientifically credible, and rigorous clinical trials (such as the one currently underway) to answer the question of how beneficial CBD may be to those suffering from chronic arthritis pain.

Are There Any Drawbacks to CBD Treatment?

As with any treatment, there may be some drawbacks. CBD is usually seen to be harmless; nonetheless, it can produce lightheadedness, tiredness, dry mouth, and, in rare cases, liver issues. Because CBD products are not regulated like prescription pharmaceuticals, there may be some doubt regarding their potency or purity, and Joint Relief Balm can interact with other prescriptions. Concerns have been expressed among pregnant women about a possible link between smoked cannabis and lower-birthweight babies; it is unclear whether this extends to CBD. Some pain specialists are concerned that Joint Relief Balm may disrupt the body’s natural pain-regulation mechanism, leading to tolerance (the need for increasing doses to have the same effect), while the risk of addiction is usually regarded as negligible.

There is one undeniable disadvantage: the cost. Prices vary significantly, but CBD products aren’t cheap, and the cost can be significant depending on dose, frequency, and formulation – I discovered one brand that was $120/month, and health insurance doesn’t normally cover it.

Are there any guidelines for using CBD to treat persistent arthritis pain?

Until recently, there was little information accessible for persons suffering from arthritis who wanted to try CBD Joint Rub treatment. Patients and their doctors had to determine on their own whether CBD was a realistic alternative in each unique case based on availability and interest. That is still true to a significant extent, however some recommendations have been released. Here’s one set of CBD therapy guidelines that I think are appropriate (based on suggestions from the Dr. K CBD Foundation and a recent editorial published in the medical journal):

Dos:

Choose a CBD product that has been independently verified for purity, potency, and safety, such as one that has gained “Good Manufacturing Practices” (GMP) certification.

CBD should be used as part of a comprehensive pain management strategy that includes non-pharmaceutical options (such as exercise) and psychological support.

Choose an oral medication over inhalation drugs and begin with a low dose in the evening.

Establish initial treatment goals within a reasonable time frame, such as a reduction in knee pain that permits you to walk around the block after two weeks of beginning therapy; later, if you progress, the goals can be altered.

Inform your doctor(s) about your CBD treatment plans and current status; check your pain and alter drugs with your medical providers rather than nonmedical practitioners (such as those selling CBD products).

Don’ts: 

Don’t use CBD as your first option for pain management; instead, use it only if other treatments have proven ineffective.

Nonmedical practitioners (such as those selling CBD products) should not be managing your chronic pain; pain management should be handled by you and your healthcare team, even if CBD is used.

Do not discontinue prescribed medications that may be preserving your joints from future harm if you have rheumatoid arthritis or a related condition; instead, discuss any changes to your medication regimen with your doctor.

In conclusion

If you’re considering CBD treatment for chronic arthritic pain, or if you’re already using Joint Relief Balm, discuss the benefits, drawbacks, and newest research with your healthcare providers so that you can come up with a suitable treatment plan. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, it may be critical to continue taking your traditional, prescription meds even if you seek additional comfort with CBD products.