It is widely believed that CBD can help manage the symptoms of conditions that cause physical pain. A common complaint is back pain, and when this is severe and ongoing, it can be referred to as chronic back pain, a condition which can have a serious impact on quality of life.
We take a look at the current research on CBD for chronic back pain, some examples of notable figures who use CBD for chronic pain, and the different products you might consider for this condition.
What is chronic back pain?
Chronic back pain is usually defined as back pain that has continued for a period of three months or longer, after the initial injury or cause has been treated. It can develop after injury or even after spinal surgery. However, it does not always have an easily definable cause and medical experts may find it hard to pinpoint what is causing the ongoing pain.
Fibromyalgia is another condition associated with chronic back pain, as it is a long-term condition that can cause pain all over the body.
Can you use CBD for chronic back pain?
CBD is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and pain relieving effects, which is the central reason why it may be able to help with the management of chronic back pain.
Your endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in regulating your body’s functions and processes by releasing molecules named endocannabinoids. Many believe that cannabinoids such as CBD interact with the ECS to prolong the availability of these molecules in the body. This is why it is thought to help with pain relief, by promoting increased regulation in the body.
The research in this area is promising. A 2008 study looking at the use of cannabinoids in the management of ‘difficult to treat’ or chronic pain explored how CBD and other cannabinoids can help with pain relief and concluded that ‘the future for cannabinoid therapeutics appears very bright’.
A 2018 study which looked at the potential treatment of patients with failed back surgery syndrome (another cause of chronic pain) found that THC and CBD can have ‘remarkable’ pain relieving properties.
Who uses CBD for chronic back pain?
Many people are trying CBD in the management of their chronic pain, including some famous athletes who no longer want to rely on pharmaceutical painkillers. One example of such an athlete is Rob Gronkowski, an NFL player who has suffered from chronic pain from his career in American football. He has campaigned for CBD to be allowed in the NFL and other sports.
How should you use CBD for chronic back pain?
There are a range of different CBD product types, so it can be worth testing them out to see what works for you.
CBD oil is probably one of the most popular product types – this does not specifically target back pain but rather provides relief to the body as a whole, which may help you to manage symptoms of chronic pain.
Those suffering from chronic back pain might also consider something like a concentrated CBD balm which can be applied topically to areas of the back that are causing pain.
We hope you have found this guide to CBD for chronic back pain useful. If you are suffering from pain, you should always seek the advice of a medical professional who can advise on the best options for you.
If you are interested in trying CBD products, you can browse our online shop to get started.
