Millions of Americans experience the pain of arthritis every single day. With little relief in sight from traditional options, more people than ever are trying alternatives — alternatives like CBD for arthritis. But can CBD oil really relieve pain, especially that associated with joint pain? Here, we take a look at CBD for arthritis pain and lay out the best CBD oil to target the symptoms of this frustrating chronic condition.
What is Chronic Pain?
Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for three months or longer, well beyond the expected healing time for an injury or illness. It differs from acute pain, a normal response to injury or illness that quickly resolves as healing occurs.
Chronic pain can be caused by an initial injury or illness that leads to changes in the nervous system, making the pain more intense and long-lasting even after healing. In some cases, chronic pain can occur without any prior injury, and the exact causes are not well understood. It may be related to conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, endometriosis, fibromyalgia, and chronic inflammation.
It frequently and significantly impacts physical, mental, emotional, social, and financial well-being. It can interfere with daily activities, lead to depression and anxiety, and reduce quality of life. Treatment typically involves a combination of medications, therapies (e.g., physical therapy, psychotherapy), and lifestyle changes to manage the pain and its effects.
Understanding Arthritis and Joint Pain
Arthritis and joint pain are closely related conditions. Arthritis refers to inflammation and swelling in one or more joints, while joint pain can be a symptom of arthritis or other conditions affecting the joints. Beyond joint pain, other arthritis symptoms include joint tenderness, swelling around the joints, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and redness and warmth around the affected areas.
The symptoms can vary depending on the type of arthritis and may come and go in cycles of flare-ups and remissions. For the more than 50 million Americans who face challenging arthritis symptoms on a daily basis, many have started exploring alternative pain management options.
Types of Arthritis
Arthritis is not a single disease but a broad term used to describe over 100 different types of joint diseases and related conditions. The most common forms include:
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common form, affecting over 32 million Americans. It occurs when the cartilage cushioning the joints breaks down, causing bones to rub together. Risk factors include age, obesity, injuries, and overuse of joints.
Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the joints, causing inflammation and damage. It often affects the same joints symmetrically on both sides of the body.
Symptoms include joint pain, swelling, stiffness, fatigue, and potential effects on other organs.
Psoriatic Arthritis
This type occurs in some people with the skin condition psoriasis, causing joint pain, stiffness and swelling. It is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks both the skin and joints.
Symptoms include joint pain and swelling, sausage-like swelling (dactylitis), pain and swelling around tendons (enthesitis), and back pain.
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It leads to sudden attacks of severe joint pain, swelling, and redness, often in the big toe.
Symptoms include sudden and severe joint pain, stiffness, decreased range of movement, and throbbing.
Arthritis Pain Management
Even though millions of Americans feel the impact of arthritis and joint pain daily, there isn’t a single shot. There is no one “best” way to treat joint pain, as the most effective approach depends on the underlying cause and severity of the pain.
Many people rely on over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce inflammation and relieve mild to moderate pain. In addition to pills, these may also include topical creams and ointments containing ingredients like capsaicin or menthol for localized relief. Of course, many also turn to prescriptions, including injections, for arthritis-related pain.
But beyond prescription medications, long-term pain relief often only happens with a more holistic approach that includes everything from low-impact exercises to lifestyle changes like food choices and weight loss to alternatives, including natural options like CBD oil.
Can CBD Oils Help With Joint Pain?
According to a recent Arthritis Foundation survey of arthritis patients, “79% surveyed are currently using CBD, have used it in the past or are considering using it” to manage their symptoms. Still, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals, it’s too early to say (decisively) that CBD cures joint pain.
Until then, we can look at the current body of research:
- A 2022 study found that 83 percent of people with arthritis reported improvements in pain, along with better sleep quality, after using CBD. The osteoarthritis group saw greater pain reduction compared to those with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Animal studies have shown CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
- A small study in 2022 suggested that topical CBD treatment relieved basal joint arthritis, a common type affecting the thumb.
Considering the sheer number of people who have already tried it and the positive clinical evidence so far, CBD shows promise for alleviating arthritis joint pain.
However, there is always the caveat that more rigorous clinical research is still needed to confirm these early findings. Still, if you struggle with the daily painful symptoms, you may want to bring it up with your doctor as one option to add to your daily regime.
Top CBD Products for Joint Pain Relief
When it comes to CBD for chronic joint pain or to relieve arthritis pain, you’ll want to look for a CBD product with full-spectrum CBD extract rather than CBD isolate. As the name suggests, full-spectrum CBD oil contains a spectrum of beneficial compounds, including other cannabinoids and terpenes, which can work together for more profound effects.
You might also want to experiment with products that don’t just contain cannabis plant extracts but other beneficial ingredients, like turmeric (an anti-inflammatory), menthol (temporary cooling effect), and willow bark (herbal pain reliever).
Here are the best CBD-infused options for pain relief you may want to try the next time your symptoms flare up:
CBDfx CBD Muscle and Joint Heating Cream
This cream combines CBD and CBG for targeted muscle and joint relief. It features a heating effect to soothe discomfort, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. Ingredients include menthol for cooling and arnica for added relief. It’s designed to penetrate deeply and provide quick relief.
cbdMD Pain-Relieving Gel Roll-On
This gel roll-on offers fast, cooling relief for muscle and joint pain with a convenient, no-mess applicator. Infused with 1500mg CBD, menthol, arnica, tea tree oil, and aloe vera, it helps soothe and relax sore areas, perfect for post-exercise or daily discomfort.
Kush Queen Shield 100 CBD Bath Bomb
This bath bomb offers 100mg of broad-spectrum CBD oil and is designed for deep relaxation and relief. It combines cannabinoids with essential oils like lavender, sandalwood, chamomile, orange, lemon, and frankincense, providing aromatherapy benefits. It’s made with high-quality, vegan ingredients and is free from gluten, artificial fragrances, and harmful chemicals.
Best CBD Products for Rheumatoid Arthritis
CBDfx Wellness 2:1 Tincture
This tincture combines a 2:1 ratio of broad-spectrum CBD to CBG, enhanced with Coenzyme Q10 and curcumin for additional anti-inflammatory properties. It includes a proprietary terpene blend for better absorption and effectiveness. It’s vegan and gluten-free, available in various strengths (500mg to 6000mg), and designed to support overall wellness.
Foria Relief Salve with CBD & Kava
This salve combines 600mg of full-spectrum CBD oil with kava, ginger, St. John’s wort, and eucalyptus to provide natural relief for menstrual cramps, sore muscles, and joints. Made with organically grown ingredients, it features a base of coconut MCT, castor oil, and beeswax, absorbing quickly and moisturizing the skin while alleviating discomfort.
Finding Relief With CBD Oil From The Other Path
If you suffer from stiffness and pain associated with arthritis, it may be time to explore natural remedies like CBD oil. The Other Path offers a curated selection of high-quality CBD products targeting physical discomfort.
Whether you prefer creams, tinctures, or bath bombs, you’ll find options tailored to your needs. Shop CBD for arthritis today.
FAQ
What strength of CBD is best for arthritis?
The best strength of CBD for arthritis varies depending on individual factors such as the severity of the pain, body weight, and overall health. It is generally recommended to start with a lower dose, such as 10-20 mg per day, and gradually increase until relief is achieved. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also help determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs.
What form of CBD is best for chronic pain?
CBD is available in various forms, including oils, capsules, creams, and edibles. For chronic pain, full-spectrum CBD oil is often considered the most effective due to the entourage effect, where various cannabinoids and terpenes work together to enhance pain relief. Topical CBD creams can also provide targeted relief for localized pain areas.
What is the best cannabinoid for arthritis pain?
CBD (cannabidiol) is widely regarded as the most effective cannabinoid for arthritis pain due to its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to alleviate pain. THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can also be effective but is often combined with CBD to reduce psychoactive effects while enhancing pain relief.
Does CBD really help joints?
Yes, CBD has been shown to help with joint pain and inflammation. Research suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce joint pain associated with arthritis and improve physical function. Many users report significant relief from arthritis symptoms with regular use of CBD products.
Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain?
CBD has been found to reduce both inflammation and pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the underlying inflammation that causes pain, making it effective for conditions like arthritis. This dual action makes CBD a popular choice for managing chronic inflammatory pain.