Cannabis has been found to be an effective treatment for chronic pain in adults, according to research. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine supports these results, suggesting that the use of CBD may reduce pain and inflammation. CBD can be taken in pill or capsule form for slow, prolonged release, or as an oral tincture (infused oil containing CBD) for a faster onset of effect. In a recent Forbes Health survey, 60% of adults who use CBD products do so to control pain levels.
Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a relatively new and understudied treatment for pain, including back pain. Studies suggest that it may help alleviate inflammation, which is often a factor in chronic back pain.1 Much of the research literature on CBD supports its use as a treatment for childhood epilepsy. CBD products are not regulated or approved by the FDA to treat diseases, so it is important to be careful when buying them. The Mayo Clinic states that CBD is normally found in the form of oil, but can also be sold as an extract or vaporized liquid.
Advocates believe that it can be used to treat a variety of conditions besides back pain, such as anxiety-related disorders. Both CBD and THC act on the body's natural endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in many processes, such as appetite, pain and memory. The Arthritis Foundation recently surveyed 2,600 people with arthritis and found that 29% currently use CBD to treat arthritis symptoms. Cannabidiol (CBD) is gaining popularity as a supplement with the promise of treating a variety of conditions, such as pain, anxiety and insomnia. Dr.
Daniel Clauw, professor of anesthesiology, rheumatology and psychiatry at the University of Michigan and director of the Center for Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research, leads research on arthritis and fibromyalgia pain, and the effects of cannabis, especially CBD, on pain. CBD is available in many forms; topical creams and gels have demonstrated promising results for inflammation and neuropathy, which may make them a good choice for back and neck pain. Boehnke and Clauw recommend that people with chronic pain talk to their doctor about adding CBD to their treatment plan and continue to use prescription medications. CBD is a chemical substance from the plant Cannabis sativa (also known as cannabis or hemp), explains WebMD2. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it does not cause the typical psychological effects associated with being “high”. Some studies suggest that CBD may have an effect on the way a person perceives pain, but more research is needed. Generally speaking, CBD is considered a whole-body treatment; it does not specifically target back pain but rather contributes to an overall sense of relaxation and relief from pain.
