CBD’s role in easing pain and discomfort for homecare patients highlights the potential advantages of CBD oil, derived from cannabis. Many users report that it helps with pain, anxiety, depression, and sleep issues. However, solid proof from human studies is sparse due to restrictions on cannabis research. As legalization expands, research on CBD’s therapeutic benefits is growing, showing promising potential in alleviating chronic pain.
CBD, unlike its intoxicating cousin THC, offers several health benefits without causing a high. Cannabinoids such as CBD interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, influencing functions like emotional responses, motor control, and energy balance.
In recent decades, researchers have been studying CBD’s potential as a painkiller, or analgesic, with promising initial findings. While investigations continue, here’s what we currently understand about using CBD oil to alleviate pain.
CBD has shown promise in managing chronic pain, often when paired with THC, according to recent studies. For example, clinical trials have highlighted the effectiveness of Sativex, a spray combining equal amounts of CBD and THC, in relieving cancer-related pain. Approved for use in Canada and undergoing trials in the U.S., Sativex is proving valuable in treating severe chronic pain stemming from various sources, including nociceptive, neuropathic, and mixed types. Earlier research also suggests CBD’s potential in alleviating conditions like multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury, though studies involved smaller groups.
CBD is among over 100 compounds, called cannabinoids, found in cannabis plants. While many plants contain cannabinoids, cannabis is most commonly associated with them.
Unlike THC, another cannabinoid, CBD does not cause a euphoric “high.” This is because CBD does not interact with the same receptors in the body as THC does.
Our bodies have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that interprets signals from cannabinoids. It also produces its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids. The ECS helps regulate functions like sleep, immune responses, and pain.
When THC is consumed, it affects the brain’s endocannabinoid receptors, leading to a sensation of being high. This process activates the brain’s reward system, triggering the release of pleasure chemicals like dopamine.
CBD is being explored for its ability to reduce inflammation, particularly in treating arthritis and related joint conditions. While CBD has shown pain-relieving effects in other conditions, its specific role in arthritis treatment is backed by animal and early-stage trials. Ongoing clinical research is still needed to fully understand CBD’s effectiveness for arthritis. A significant trial in 2006 focused on rheumatoid arthritis patients found that Sativex, compared to a placebo, significantly improved pain during movement, pain at rest, and sleep quality. Participants reported mild to moderate side effects, and no issues were noted upon stopping treatment.
Neuropathic pain, characterized by sensations like tingling, numbness, and sharp, burning pain, can result from various nerve-related conditions and injuries.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) often causes neuropathic pain by damaging the myelin, a protective coating around nerve cells. Sativex, approved globally for MS treatment, is administered as a mouth spray. Studies recommend an average of eight sprays daily, providing approximately 20 milligrams of CBD and 21.6 milligrams of THC, although individual doses may vary.
In a 2020 study, topical CBD oil was tested as a treatment for peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Compared to a placebo, the topical CBD oil significantly reduced severe pain, sharp pain, and sensations like coldness and itching in patients.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition affecting the nerves and brain, impacting the entire body.
Muscle spasms are a prevalent symptom of MS and can cause persistent pain due to their intensity.
According to a report, short-term use of CBD oil has shown promise in reducing muscle spasms experienced by individuals with MS. While the effects observed were modest, many participants reported a decrease in symptoms. Further human studies are necessary to confirm these findings.
CBD oil holds promise for pain relief based on studies, but more research involving human subjects over the long term is crucial.
Despite the need for further investigation, CBD oil appears to be a viable option for managing pain. Both scientific research and personal experiences indicate it could be beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic pain in various settings.
CBD oil is appealing because it doesn’t cause intoxication and might have fewer side effects than other pain medications, making it potentially beneficial for individuals in respite homecare.
