The Uses of CBD Oil to Aid with Different Pain Management

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a type of cannabinoid chemical found naturally in marijuana plants. CBD is a nonintoxicating compound known for its wide range of properties. It can interact with the receptors found in the endocannabinoid system, which signal various bodily functions, including pain management. Preliminary research reports indicate that CBD is an efficient analgesic or painkiller. So, how can you use CBD oil to aid with pain management?  

What is CBD Oil?

CBD Oil is a cannabidiol extract mixed with a carrier oil such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil to enhance its bioavailability. A proper CBD oil can be made using complex yet very efficient extraction methods, depending on the type and quality of product the manufacturer requires. This includes solvent extraction using butane or propane, CO2 extraction, steam distillation, etc. After extracting CBD, the compound generally mixed with carrier oils such as MCT or hemp seed oils. More essential oils or various ingredients can be added to make an effective CBD oil for pain management.

Types of CBD Oil

You can find CBD oil products in many types with varying strength levels. Currently, there are three main types of CBD oil; isolate, broad-spectrum, and full-spectrum CBD. Their ingredients determine their effectiveness in managing different health conditions.

• CBD isolate: It’s the purest form of CBD oil with over 99% of CBD content. CBD isolate is generally ideal for those who want to avoid the psychoactive properties of THC content completely. It can be ideal for treating mild everyday conditions such as headaches.
• Full-spectrum CBD: It contains CBD and other cannabis plant compounds, including terpenes, essential oils, and trace amounts of THC content. CBD and THC in this product normally produce a potent effect, making full-spectrum CBD ideal for pain management.
• Broad-spectrum CBD: It’s similar to full-spectrum CBD in terms of ingredients, only that it doesn’t contain trace THC content. Broad-spectrum contains various compounds and cannabinoids, including CBD and terpenes such as pinene, limonene, and myrcene. 

Uses of CBD Oil for Pain Management

Preliminary reports indicate that CBD oil can significantly help reduce pain. Evidence suggests that safe and effective dosages of CBD oil can produce therapeutic effects for conditions such as:

• Arthritis pain
• Neuropathic pain
• Chronic pain
• Cancer treatment relief
• Back pain treatment

Arthritis Pain

CBD compound has anti-inflammatory properties that make it effective for easing arthritis inflammation. The application of CBD topically can result in a significant drop in the severity of joint inflammation signs of pain without any extra side effects. However, there is still a need for more studies to confirm the effectiveness of CBD for arthritis pain management, especially when it comes to dosage.

Neuropathic pain

CBD oil for pain can help ease neuropathic issues that usually occur due to nerve damage. It should be noted that neuropathic pain is commonly found alongside ailments such as multiple sclerosis, infections such as shingles, and injuries like herniated discs.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is a long-standing pain that usually persists beyond the expected recovery period. Besides that, it may be the type of pain alongside other chronic health issues such as arthritis. It should be noted that this type of pain may be continuous or on/off.

Generally, chronic pain conditions usually affect day to day activities of the patient. In some instances, it may make it difficult for them to take part in physical activities or enjoy life. CBD’s therapeutic effects can be helpful to people dealing with chronic pain. It doesn’t lead to a buildup of tolerance, regardless of how long you use it. Additionally, it doesn’t lead to dependence.

Cancer treatment relief

The side effects of chemotherapy treatment are mostly extensive, causing pain to cancer patients. Besides that, it can result in loss of appetite or lead to the feeling of nausea or vomiting. However, CBD oil’s analgesic properties make it ideal for cancer treatment. It also has anti-emetic effects that help to manage nausea.

Back pain treatment

Conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis can result in back pain. Besides that, you might experience this type of pain due to muscle or ligament strains and ruptured disks. However, you can use CBD oil to manage your back discomfort.

Research shows that CBD can reduce back pain in three ways – reducing inflammation, improving the overall physical state of relaxation, and combating anxiety. It should be noted that anxiety has long been associated with chronic back pain. Additionally, some studies indicate CBD normally affects how an individual tends to perceive pain. But by managing the symptoms of anxiety or inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, CBD oil can significantly improve your back pain symptoms.

CBD Oil Dosage 

CBD oil dosage for pain varies, depending on many factors. This includes your age, weight, chemical balance, the severity of pain, and others. There is no universal dosage recommendation for CBD oil dosage currently, and most brands usually recommend dosage based on weight and pain level.

Table 1: Overview of CBD Oil Dosage Based on Pain Level and Weight

Pain Level/ Weight	Less than 25 lbs.	26-45 lbs.	46-85 lbs.	85-150 lbs.	151-240 lbs.	More than 240 lbs.
Mild	1.5 mg	6 mg	9 mg	12 mg	18 mg	22.5 mg
Medium	6 mg	9 mg	12 mg	15 mg	22.5 mg	30 mg
Severe	9 mg	12 mg	15 mg	18 mg	27 mg	45 mg

Potential Side Effects of CBD

CBD has a good safety profile, so most people tolerate it well. However, this doesn’t eliminate its potential to result in unwanted side effects completely. According to a 2017 review,  CBD can result in:

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in weight

Besides that, it can interact with certain medications such as blood thinners, inhibiting their usual efficiency.  If you notice unusual changes while using CBD oil for pain, discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.

Conclusion

CBD’s analgesic profile makes it effective in reducing certain pain symptoms. You can use CBD oil to manage acute conditions such as joint pain or post-workout injuries. In addition to that, you can use CBD to manage symptoms of chronic health conditions such as multiple sclerosis, and neuropathic pain. The goal is to find the dosage that works for you based on the type of pain and the severity. Generally, start with a lower dosage and then gradually increase your intake until you find what works for you.