If you suffer from chronic arthritis pain, you may have contemplated trying one of those CBD products everyone is raving about. You might have even tried it already, and we don’t blame you. According to a 2020 Gallup poll, about 14% of Americans have admitted using CBD products. The number one reason is for pain relief.

Furthermore, the Arthritis Foundation conducted its own poll and discovered that almost 30% reported current use of the compound. And nearly 80% of responders were either using it, used it in the past, or considered it. Most of those using it revealed improvement in physical and mental functions, sleep, and mood. There are different products for each disorder. For instance, you can use CBD sleep gummies for insomnia or CBD hemp flower for calming anxiety. 3D illustration of Palm pain – skeleton x-ray, medical concept.

Truth Behind Arthritis Pain

It’s worth highlighting that there are many types of arthritis, actually more than 100 types. While chronic pain is a notable feature of all of them, these conditions are somewhat different. And whatever therapy works for one may not have the same effect on the other.

Before the rise of CBD products, conventional prescription medications were used to alleviate pain and stiffness associated with specific conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, because they help prevent lasting joint degeneration and worsening disability. Furthermore, individuals experience pain and respond to medications differently. As a result, it’s improbable that a single CBD product works for all people with different kinds of arthritis.

Any Downsides to CBD Treatment for Arthritis Pain?

As many arthritis patients start to recognize the potential benefits of CBD, concerns regarding the side effects and downsides are beginning to emerge. CBD is generally deemed safe; however, as with any treatment, there can be downsides. Some users have reported feeling lightheaded and drowsy. Others have claimed to have a dry mouth and suffered from loss of appetite, some kind of allergy to CBD.

Some pain experts are worried that CBD may invert the body’s natural way of regulating pain in patients with arthritis, leading to an unfavorable tolerance. However, the potential for unhealthy dependence is generally considered to be low.

The other downside is the cost. Prices vary broadly, but why is CBD so expensive? Depending on concentration and formulation, the cost can be high. So, if you are an arthritic patient thinking of committing to a CBD regimen, it might be pricey- if you don’t know where to get these therapeutic products.

CBD for Arthritis

Unfortunately, little direction is available for people suffering from arthritis pain interested in CBD treatment. Patients and doctors are usually prone to deciding on their own whether CBD is the right option for them in their specific case.

While most doctors will not recommend using Extra Strength CBD oil for arthritis, some guidelines have been issued for people who have decided to move forward with a CBD treatment. Here’s one set of guidelines for people seeking treatment with CBD (based on recommendations from the Arthritis Foundation and a recent commentary published in the medical journal Arthritis Care & Research):

CBD for Arthritis Dos:

• If on the hunt for a reliable CBD product, opt for one that has been lab-tested for purity, potency, and safety. For instance, look for one that has received a “Best Products” (GMP) certification.
• If serious about your condition, CBD should be one piece of an overall pain management plan that includes non-medication options (such as exercise) and psychological support.
• Opt for an oral or topical treatment (rather than edible products) and start with a low dose taken in the evening.
• Set primary goals with a realistic timeframe.
• Keep your doctor(s) in the loop about your current CBD treatment or your interest in starting one. Monitor your discomfort and adjust prescribed medications with your medical providers rather than non-medical practitioners.

CBD for Arthritis Don’t Dos:

• You shouldn’t make CBD your first option for arthritis pain relief; only consider it if other treatments have not worked in the past.
• Don’t trust non-medical practitioners handling your chronic pain. Pain management should be between you and your healthcare people.
• People who have rheumatoid arthritis or related conditions should not start a CBD treatment and stop taking their prescribed medications that may be shielding their joints from future damage.

Recommendation

If you’re contemplating starting a CBD treatment for chronic arthritis pain, make sure you check out the pros, downsides, and latest news with your doctor before you decide. Chances are there might be a more reasonable treatment plan for you out there. Depending on the type of arthritis you have and the severity of the condition, it may be useful to continue taking your prescribed medications even if you commit to additional relief with CBD products. We may not have all the data we’d like yet, but if CBD can harmlessly reduce your painful symptoms, it may be worth a try.