According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half of Americans will experience pain and limitations caused by osteoarthritis (OA) in the knees by the time we reach age 85. These numbers are even higher for people who are obese. While some people take medication to manage their OA, others prefer to consider alternative pain relief measures.
The Arthritis Foundation reports that CBD-based products have grown in popularity when it comes to alternative options for arthritis pain relief. In fact, trends show that people with arthritis are among the top buyers, and pain is the main reason they purchase CBD oil.
What Is CBD Oil?
CBD stands for cannabidiol. Cannabidiol is just one of a hundred cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds secreted by hemp flowers. Some experts believe that cannabinoids can provide relief to several different symptoms -- including pain, nausea, anxiety and inflammation.
Contrary to popular belief, CBD oil does not make you feel ‘high’ or alter your mood. That’s because CBD does not contain THC, which is the mood-altering compound found in cannabis that causes a high feeling.
How Does CBD Oil Work?
According to Medical News Today, the body’s endocannabinoid system has two cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.
A variety of CB1 receptors are located in the brain which are related to cognitive actions such as coordination, mood, thinking and appetite. However, the CB2 receptors are found in your immune system. Therefore, CB2 receptors are responsible for your body’s response to pain and inflammation.
Can CBD Oil Ease Joint Pain?
Several studies suggest that cannabidiol oil could play a role in the relief of arthritis. Some people take CBD oil for its positive effect on pain.
One 2017 study published in the Pain journal examined whether CBD could prevent osteoarthritis pain and joint neuropathy. Researchers found that it helped both problems because it decreased joint inflammation and acted as a way to protect the nerves.
How is CBD Oil Taken?
There are a variety of CBD oil products available, and the amount of CBD in each product varies. CBD comes in several different forms. However, the most common forms include CBD oil, creams and chewable gummies. Many people choose to use CBD oil that is placed under the tongue. This delivery method sends the molecule directly into your bloodstream.
What Are the Side Effects?
Side effects of CBD vary from person to person and can include:
- Drowsiness or fatigue. If you’re taking supplements or medications to help you sleep, CBD could enhance these effects. If your job involves activities that require maximum alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, CBD oil might not be an option.
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
Is CBD Oil Right for Me?
While many people have experienced reduced pain when using CBD oil, the best course of action is to speak with your doctor or health care provider before taking it.
As with any natural supplements or alternative medicine treatment, it is always best to check with your doctor. For example, several prescription drugs and supplements interact with CBD oil. Specifically, CBD oil can affect anxiety medication, blood thinner medication and several other medications.
Talk with your doctor before trying CBD oil on your own. Because the dosage of CBD oil varies from product to product, your doctor can decide if CBD oil is for you, and if so, the dosage that you can take for pain relief.
Contact Flexogenix
If you have questions on how to manage your arthritis pain, the experts at Flexogenix can address your concerns. You can find relief from arthritis pain without undergoing risky and expensive surgery. Contact Flexogenix to make an appointment for a free consultation. You will be taking charge of your joint health so that you can lead an active and healthy lifestyle – without arthritis pain and discomfort.
