Advantage

CBD for Pain Management: Can It Help Chronic Pain Sufferers?

Exploring the use of CBD as a natural alternative to painkillers.

By Justine Amodeo November 22, 2024

The topic of this story was provided by our review partner, Originated Media; SagaCity Media has editorial oversight over specific content.

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, and in Seattle, a city known for its innovative approaches to health and wellness, many residents are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) for pain relief. In recent years, CBD has emerged as a popular natural alternative to prescription painkillers —which can be addictive and have significant side effects — offering a plant-based option that may provide relief without the risks associated with opioids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

A study published in the Journal of Pain Research reviewed various studies and concluded that CBD could help alleviate pain, particularly in conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. The majority of participants responded that these products helped their pain and allowed them to reduce their pain medications, including opioids.

What Is CBD?

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce the “high” associated with marijuana. Instead, it is celebrated for its potential health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is crucial for regulating various physiological processes, including pain perception, immune response, and mood. The ECS consists of receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids, and enzymes. When CBD is introduced into the body, it interacts with these receptors, helping to modulate pain signaling pathways. This interaction may lead to reduced inflammation and altered pain perception, making CBD a compelling option for those suffering from chronic pain as it is generally well-tolerated, with fewer reported side effects than many traditional pain medications.

Advantages of CBD Over Traditional Painkillers

Many individuals with conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and migraine headaches report experiencing relief from CBD. Its potential to reduce inflammation and interact with receptors in the brain that process pain makes it a viable option for those who do not want to take traditional painkillers.

While the opioid crisis increases, CBD's role in pain management is unveiled as animal studies show promising evidence. Further investigation and trials into CBD's therapeutic value are ongoing due to its natural source, numerous usages, lower risk of addiction or dependency, and relative safety.

The Science Behind CBD for Pain Management

CBD is an alternative to an opioid in chronic pain because CBD is non-intoxicating in its pure form. Emerging research suggests that CBD can reduce pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia and arthritis by targeting inflammation and pain pathways.

In a recent study exploring the potential anti-inflammatory effects of CBD, conditions characterized by inflammation, such as arthritis, may benefit from CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties. CBD is an anti-inflammatory agent in many disease states, the study stated, using as examples, collagen-induced arthritis, neuroinflammation, and acute lung injury. The research indicates that CBD can help lower inflammation markers, leading to decreased pain levels.

Alleviating Neuropathic Pain

CBD has also shown promise in alleviating neuropathic pain, which is often difficult to treat with conventional medications. Its ability to interact with the ECS may help reduce sensations of pain stemming from nerve damage.

According to a study published in Neurotherapeutics, CBD influences many other receptor systems in our body and will influence the ECS in combination with other cannabinoids. For example, CBD can increase the body’s levels of anandamide, a compound associated with regulating pain, which can reduce pain perception and improve mood.

Other studies show the topical application of CBD oil can achieve significant improvement in pain and other disturbing sensations in patients with peripheral neuropathy. “The treatment product was well tolerated and may provide a more effective alternative compared to other current therapies in the treatment of peripheral neuropathy,” the study reported.

Legal Framework and Usage

In Seattle, CBD is legal and readily available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, and topical creams, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. Seattle's local businesses often prioritize high-quality, lab-tested products, which is essential for ensuring safety and efficacy.

CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by the liver, so consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals on other medications.

Seattle Met