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Can CBD help back pain?

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It is well documented that CBD is an effective pain reliever

Back pain is one of the most common health conditions in the world. An estimated 15-20% of adults experience back pain every year.

Severity of the discomfort can range from a light twinge to chronic pain that can be debilitating in some cases.

Most patients suffering from acute or short-term back pain will be prescribed NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), such as ibuprofen. This can be an effective treatment for acute back pain, however if taken over extended periods, NSAIDs can cause nasty side effects such as stomach ulcers, high blood pressure and dizziness.

Since its rise in popularity in recent years, CBD has become a popular alternative to painkillers, offering consumers pain relief without any of the major side effects associated with NSAIDs.

CBD is a one of the major chemical compounds found in cannabis and is extracted from the plant to produce a variety of different products, from beverages to creams.

CBD is derived from industrial cannabis, known as hemp, which contains only trace quantities of CBD’s psychoactive cousin, THC. This means the CBD that is extracted doesn’t create the ‘high’ which is often associated with cannabis.

CBD for back pain remains an understudied area of research, however early studies and anecdotal evidence shows that the compound has a promising future for treating the common ailment.

Research has shown that CBD helps with back pain by reducing inflammation, improving sleep quality and managing anxiety; a common issue associated with chronic back pain.

The analgesic (pain relieving) properties of CBD is thought to come from the interaction between CBD and the body’s endocannabinoid system. This interaction boosts the signalling of anandamide, a neurotransmitter named after the Sanskrit word for “bliss” or “joy”. In short, it is the body’s natural mood enhancer which also regulates pain.

CBD is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties. In an interview with NetDoctor, medical nutritionist and health author, Dr Sarah Brewer said: “CBD oil is one of the most helpful supplements to become available in a long time. It is highly antioxidant so has anti-inflammatory effects on joints, to improve pain and stiffness. CBD also has an analgesic effect to reduce pain perception in the brain.”

CBD products come in all shapes and sizes with different methods of application. Most people will be familiar with CBD oil which can be consumed orally, vaporised or mixed into food and drinks. CBD oil can also be bought in capsule form, making it easier to accurately calculate dosage.

In addition, CBD can be taken sublingually by placing a CBD lozenge or oil beneath the tongue. As the CBD is absorbed through the tissue in the mouth, it bypasses the digestive system leading to a quicker onset.

For more targeted relief, many people suffering with back pain apply a topical or transdermal product to a specific area of the body. These may come as a cream, ointment or patch and are an excellent option for relieving pain in a localised area such as the back.

Unfortunately, not all CBD products are created equal. As the cannabis market grows, the number of brands available grows with it. The number of companies and products to choose from can be daunting for people who are new CBD. It is also important to understand that CBD products remain unregulated, so it is worth putting some time into researching the market. An easy way to check for quality is to look at the product label or company website for third-party testing.

CBD is generally considered to be safe, even at high doses, however some side effects may occur. Reported side effects include dizziness, dry mouth, low blood pressure and drowsiness. As with most natural supplements, CBD may cause adverse reactions when combined with other medications such as blood thinners.

If you are thinking of trying CBD for managing back pain, you should first consult with a doctor, especially if you are considering changing your treatment plan.

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