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CBD, or cannabidiol, is a new and understudied therapy for pain, particularly back pain. Several studies have shown that it can reduce inflammation, a common cause of chronic back pain.
Inflammation and neuropathy have shown excellent outcomes with CBD topical creams and gels, making them a viable choice for back and neck discomfort.
Research into CBD is needed to verify and explain its efficacy and better understand the potential adverse effects (particularly long-term) and pharmacological interactions it may have.
CBD
Cannabis sativa is the source of CBD oil. The cannabis plant’s more than 100 chemical components, known as cannabinoids, are anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
There are two primary types of the cannabis Sativa plant, each of which is used for a specific purpose:
- THC content: THC is the chemical that gives marijuana users a euphoric high.
- Industrial (non-drug) uses: Contains less than 0.3 per cent THC; this version of the plant can be utilized to produce paper, clothing, and some building materials. Hemp is the name given to this strain of the cannabis plant.
Besides CBD, several CBD products on the market are made from hemp. Unlike marijuana, CBD does not provide a euphoric or psychoactive impact.
Ways CBD Treats Back Pain
Back pain may be improved by using CBD, according to studies.
- Inflammation reduction.
- Assisting patients with long-term or chronic back pain in coping with their worries.
- Boosting the quality of sleep and promoting a calmer state of mind.
CBD has been shown to affect pain perception in several trials, but more extensive research is needed. Unless applied topically, CBD is considered a full-body treatment. It does not directly target back pain but promotes a general sense of well-being and pain reduction. In addition to back pain, advocates of CBD believe it can be utilised to treat anxiety-related problems.
Types of back pain
Back pain is frequently described as where it occurs and what triggers it. As a patient and doctor work together, the appropriate treatment for back pain may be determined, and any underlying disorders that could be contributing can be ruled out.
Back pain can be acute or persistent, depending on the person. Acute back pain usually goes away in a couple of days. Chronic back pain can continue for weeks or months. A variety of medical issues can cause lower back discomfort. Listed below are a few of the more typical causes of low back pain:
- spina bifida
- sprains or other injuries
- problems with the nerves and spinal cord
- spondylosis
- kidney stones
- pregnancy
- tumours
- fibromyalgia
Even more can induce upper and lower back pain, like:
- heavy lifting
- age-related changes to the spine
- underlying medical conditions
- accidents
- posture
How CBD may help with back pain
There is some evidence that CBD oil may be beneficial in treating chronic pain. There are, however, few scientific trials supporting the use of CBD for the treatment of chronic pain, according to a recent assessment of studies. According to the authors, earlier research has shown that taking CBD oil in UK for seven days may help people with back discomfort. Although most research used rats or in vitro tests, the study did mention that these were the most common methods used in the majority of the investigations.
The assessment also found that long-term safety studies are lacking. Also of concern to the authors is that commercial CBD products are not subject to regulation. The Arthritis Foundation claims that anecdotal data reveals that some people who use CBD for arthritis experience less pain. On the other hand, CBD may not help everyone with arthritic pain.
Furthermore, according to the Arthritis Foundation, experts do not yet know if topical CBD medicines reach the location where a person’s pain manifests itself.
Effects of CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of over 100 cannabinoids contained in marijuana. For the most part, the term “cannabinoids” refers to the substances found in marijuana. Unlike other cannabinoids such as THC, CBD does not generate a euphoric “high.” Unlike THC, CBD cannot attach to the same receptors in the brain. Endocannabinoids are the name given to the cannabinoids produced by the body. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the human body is responsible for receiving and translating signals from cannabinoids in the brain. The ECS partially regulates slumber, immune system reactions, and pain. Endocannabinoid receptors in the brain are activated when THC enters the system, resulting in the “high” feeling. As a result, the brain’s reward system is activated, releasing dopamine and other pleasure compounds.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of CBD
Even high doses of cannabidiol are generally safe. CBD may have the following unwanted effects:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Low blood pressure
While rare, some of the most serious adverse effects include:
- Mental confusion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
As with other natural products, certain blood-thinning drugs may cause unpleasant responses when grapefruit juice is taken. According to these cautions, some drugs should not be taken with grapefruit-based products.
Conclusion
CBD oil shows potential as a pain reliever. Anecdotal and scientific data suggest it can assist people in managing chronic pain. Compared to conventional pain relievers, CBD oil appears to have fewer adverse effects and less intoxication impact. Despite numerous studies indicating that CBD oil effectively treats back pain, longer-term studies are still needed. If you consider using CBD oil for the first time, you should talk to your doctor.