CBD and Muscle Pain: Everything You Need to Know
From alleviating muscle aches and pains to reducing inflammation and promoting overall health and well-being, CBD is known to have several health-related benefits.
But there’s one area in particular that has proven to have huge upside: Muscle pain relief.
Whether you’re an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or someone who experiences occasional muscle soreness from time to time, understanding how to incorporate CBD into your daily routine can be incredibly beneficial.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about using CBD for muscle pain relief and why you might want to consider using it.
CBD and Muscle Pain: What Does the Science Say?
The Endocannabinoid System and Pain Relief
Woah, woah, woah… the endo-what now?
If you want to understand how CBD can help reduce muscle pain, the first step is understanding what the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is and how it works.
Let’s break it down: The ECS plays a vital role in maintaining your body’s overall homeostasis, or the balance of its internal environment. When an injury or inflammation occurs, the ECS is believed to activate and help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
The body naturally produces endocannabinoids, which have a similar structure to cannabinoids like CBD. Which is why when CBD is introduced into your body, it can mimic the function of endocannabinoids and interact with the ECS, helping provide pain relief and reduce muscle inflammation.
The Differences Between CBD and THC
Yes, CBD and THC are both cannabinoids. But while that may be true, they both affect the ECS in different ways.
THC has a more potent impact on activating the ECS, which results in sensations of euphoria and intoxication commonly associated with marijuana use.
CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t produce those same psychoactive effects. But it still interacts with the ECS enough to provide pain relief, reduce nausea, and aid in several other therapeutic benefits.
CBD is also legally derived from hemp plants containing less than 0.3% THC, making it accessible without a prescription in many regions, such as our very own New England region.
So Can CBD Really Help Relieve Muscle Pain?
Here’s What the Studies Say:
The short answer? Yes… but it’s a bit complicated.
While we’re still in the earlier stages of researching CBD on muscle pain, some studies have shown promising results.
One such study found that CBD can reduce the need for opioids in individuals suffering from chronic pain. CBD has also demonstrated potential in alleviating nerve pain, such as the burning and tingling sensations caused by conditions like diabetes or shingles. Further studies suggest that CBD may even be able to ease muscular symptoms and discomfort associated with multiple sclerosis.
With all the upside, however, it’s important to note that not all studies show consistent results. One recent study, for example, evaluated the effects of CBD oil on exercise-induced muscle damage and found no significant impact on muscle soreness and inflammation.
While research is very promising, it’s no question that more studies are needed to determine the full extent of CBD’s potential in relieving muscle pain in the body.
CBD and Osteoarthritis Pain
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, is a common cause of chronic pain. And while some studies suggest that topically-applied CBD gel may reduce joint swelling and improve pain, others have shown inconclusive results.
A recent study evaluating the effects of CBD in people with hip and knee osteoarthritis found no significant benefit in pain reduction compared to those not using CBD.
The reality is research is very early, and we still don’t know everything there is to know about CBD and its impacts on muscle pain.
With that said, early stage studies show lots of potential when it comes to using CBD for reducing muscle pains and aches.
How to Use CBD for Muscle Pain Relief
Topical Application of CBD
What are topical CBD products? They’re products like creams and ointments that are designed to be applied directly to the skin over affected muscle areas. And when applied topically, CBD interacts with cannabinoid receptors in the skin, which has shown to localize pain relief and reduce inflammation.
While the concentration of CBD in topical products may vary, it’s crucial to choose high-quality CBD products and review the certificate of analysis (COA) to ensure the CBD content meets your individual needs.
Oral Consumption of CBD
Consuming CBD orally, such as through oils, capsules, or edibles, allows the compound to enter the bloodstream and interact with the ECS on a more systemic level. This method may be beneficial for individuals experiencing widespread muscle pain or seeking overall pain relief.
However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of oral CBD can vary depending on factors such as dosage, absorption rate, and individual metabolism. We always recommend starting with a low dosage and gradually increasing it, as needed, to determine your optimal amount for pain relief and muscle relaxation.
Considerations and Precautions
Interacting with Medications
Before incorporating CBD into your routine, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you’re taking other medications.
Your healthcare provider can help assess potential interactions and guide you through the appropriate use of CBD for muscle pain relief.
Quality and Safety
When purchasing CBD products, it’s essential to prioritize quality and safety. Look for products that have been independently tested by third-party laboratories, and ensure their COA verifies the CBD content and absence of contaminants.
By choosing reputable brands – like Harbor Hemp – and adhering to recommended dosages, you can enhance the safety and efficacy of CBD to help relieve muscle pains.
While research is still in its earlier stages, evidence suggests CBD has great potential to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote overall well-being.
But whether you choose to apply CBD topically or consume it orally, it’s crucial to select high-quality, reputable CBD products, like our wide-selection here at Harbor Hemp.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your routine, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
