CBD Oil for Back Pain: A Natural Remedy for Discomfort
Sobering reports detail just how many people experience back pain. According to a study from 2020, roughly 75 million American adults suffer from chronic lower back pain, while 50% to 80% of adults will endure at least one episode of back pain during their lifetimes.
Instead of stockpiling harmful, addictive prescription medications, one solution may be right in front of us: CBD.
Both firsthand accounts and science-backed studies are proposing that this non-psychoactive cannabis product can relieve chronic pain, including back pain. But is using CBD the right choice for you? Read on to decide!
What is CBD? And How Does It Work?
The cannabis plant has over one hundred active compounds. The two most famous compounds are undoubtedly THC and CBD. Both THC and CBD bind to receptors in the brain to alter the central nervous system.
Once it enters our bodies, CBD (THC) stimulates our endocannabinoid system, ensuring homeostasis among different bodily functions, including inflammation, mood, pain, sleep, insomnia, and even skin health.
Many people confuse CBD and THC. The big difference? They bind to different brain receptors and elicit different reactions in the body. THC produces a psychoactive response, while CBD produces all of the great benefits of THC (like pain relief, inflammation reduction, sleep improvement, emotional stability and regulation) but without the typical high sensation.
Related: Is CBD Good for Depression?
How to Consume CBD
Gone are the days when you would have to consume CBD in one way. Since CBD is becoming more popular (and more legalized), patients gain the flexibility to consume CBD in a multitude of methods.
There's a vast range of CBD-infused products, from topical creams to dietary supplements to food and beverages.
What Is the Best Way to Consume CBD for Back Pain?
It seems that a 2-pronged approach works best to relieve back pain. This involves both an internal and external (topical) approach. Internally, CBD is consumed by the CB receptors throughout the body and used to help with inflammation anywhere it may exist. Externally, a really good CBD pain cream will penetrate deep and fast to directly affect the immediate area of discomfort.
Looking for CBD products to consume for back pain? Check out Triple Crown Organics for a great selection.
CBD, Back Woes, and Pain Relief
Because CBD directly targets the endocannabinoid system, it bodes well that CBD consumption will relieve pain. In fact, studies show that there are strong correlations between a reduction in chronic pain and regular CBD use.
Another way CBD can provide pain relief? Because CBD also can help with insomnia. It’s been long known how vital sleep is to pain reduction, and that pain and discomfort can interfere with sleep. As a result, CBD is doubly as effective in pain relief as it helps you sleep better and heal faster.
Lastly, CBD is great for pain because it’s nonaddictive and is, therefore, much safer than its pharmaceutical counterparts.
Related: CBD vs. Opioids - Can CBD Help Manage Pain Without Addiction?
Potential Side Effects
The good news is that CBD is entirely safe, and patients run no risk of fatally overdosing. In fact, studies report that you would have to consume a mammoth serving to run the risk of a fatal overdose.
Though, consuming CBD in excess can result in adverse side effects. The most common side effects are nausea, dry mouth, diarrhea, dizziness, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. This doesn't happen accept in very high doses.
Additionally, some medications have harmful interactions with CBD, like blood thinners. If you take prescription medications, consult with your doctor before you begin a regime of CBD to prevent any dangerous interactions.
Buying From Reputable Companies
Currently, CBD isn't as well-regulated as it should be. That's because CBD products are not FDA-approved. Many companies cut corners regarding extraction methods; some companies put less CBD into their products than advertised, while others use THC for filler even if the products are advertised as containing no THC.
It's paramount to your health to thoroughly research a company before buying CBD. Ensure that the company adheres to third-party testing so that you have a better sense of whether a company is legitimate.
Looking for trustworthy CBD products? Check out Triple Crown Organics for a vast selection of products.
FAQ
Does CBD get you high?
CBD does not get you high in the traditional sense like when people consume marijuana. That's because CBD binds to a separate cannabinoid receptor that delivers pain relief without feelings of euphoria or hallucinations.
Will CBD show up on a drug test?
Yes, CBD may show up on a drug test. That’s because many CBD products contain trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is what drug tests actively seek out. If you expect to be tested soon, consume CBD cautiously to not affect your employment or other areas of your life.
How long does CBD take to work for back pain?
While you may feel some slight effects with your first or second doses, CBD is much more effective once it has adequate time to build up in your system. Users who experience the most lower back pain relief often consume CBD at regular intervals to allow their bodies to adjust to the new levels of cannabinoids; doing so will usually produce results within one to three weeks. It’s also important to consume the correct doses so that you feel the effects.
Related: CBD Dosage: How Much Should I Take?
Consider CBD For Pain Relief
As CBD becomes more popular and legalized, Americans seek CBD products to reduce their chronic back pain, among other pesky ailments. Though much of the research is in its infancy, preliminary studies are promising, showing how regular CBD consumption has links with significant pain reduction. For those who suffer from chronic back pain, CBD is a common sense daily supplement that may make a significant difference in your day-to-day life.