How does CBD help those with Arthritis?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is an active component in cannabis. Unlike THC, cannabidiol is not intoxicating.
The CBD used in most products is extracted from hemp and has a different effect on the brain to THC. CBD is non-impairing and has been claimed to help people with a number of mental and physical health related issues such as anxiety, insomnia and arthritis.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis
Arthritis is a word used to cover the description of pain, swelling and stiffness in one or multiple joints. Contrary to popular belief, arthritis is not a single condition and there are several different types. It can be hard to pinpoint the cause of arthritis.
The health issue can be inherited, but it can occur at any age as a result of injury or associated with other joint related conditions. Arthritis can make life difficult for people who suffer with it.
The health condition can cause a lot of pain and make it harder to get about. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK and affects nearly 9 million people. The condition initially affects the smooth cartilage lining of the joint making it more difficult than usual to move.
This often leads to pain and stiffness which can cause swelling and discomfort. Those who suffer from osteoarthritis often develop the condition in their mid 40s or older although it can occur at any age as a result of injury or other joint related conditions.
The most commonly affected joints are those in the hands, spine, knees and hips. Osteoarthritis is more common in women and people who have a family history of the condition.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis affects more than 400,000 people in the UK.
Those who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis tend to develop the condition between the ages of 40 and 50. This particular type of arthritis tends to affect women 3 times more often than men.
Rheumatoid arthritis tends to cause the body’s immune system to target affected joints thus causing pain and swelling. This can spread across the joint causing more swelling and a change in the joint’s shape which can result in the bone and cartilage breaking down.
For more information on arthritis, please visit: https://www.versusarthritis.org/
Taking CBD for Arthritis
Research into CBD and its effects suggests that CBD has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Many of the studies that back this up were done on animals meaning that these effects have not been validated in quality studies in humans. Although some people with arthritis have tried CBD, not all reported noticeable pain relief, sleep improvement and/or anxiety reduction.
Without quality clinical studies in CBD and arthritis, doctors have not been able to say who may benefit from CBD, what doses should be used and who should avoid it, however there is confirmation on several points.
Before trying CBD, please familiarise yourself with these points
- CBD is not to be used as a substitute for disease-modifying treatment for inflammatory arthritis
- Patients interested in trying CBD should consult their doctor before trying so.
- Quality CBD products can be expensive. Make sure that the product you are using is truly having a positive effect on symptoms.
CBD Frequently Asked Questions
What are symptoms of Arthritis?
The symptoms of arthritis can vary from week to week, and sometimes from day to day. The symptoms of arthritis will also vary depending on the type of arthritis you have.
This is why it is important to talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms.
- Joint pain, tenderness and stiffness
- Inflammation in and around the joints
- Restricted movement of the joints
- Warm red skin over the affected joint
- Weakness and muscle wasting
Common ways of treating arthritis
There is no cure for arthritis however, there are many treatments that can help slow it down. This includes changes to your lifestyle, different medicines, and physiotherapy.
An alternative method of treatment for arthritis is use of CBD.
Is CBD safe for me?
CBD is generally safe and low-risk for most of the population, but as you would for any new product please check with your doctor or medical practitioner before you start taking CBD products. Different people react in different ways so you should always seek medical guidance before taking CBD products.
Does CBD help with Arthritic conditions?
Taking CBD if you have Arthritis
Always check before you take CBD for your arthritis but if you are looking to try a CBD based product then our hemp oil extract may be suitable for you. Many of users feel the CBD oil is of a much better quality than they would expect and we have countless happy repeat customers.
