How to Use CBD Oil for Arthritis: All You Need to Know

People of all ages can suffer from arthritis, making even the simplest tasks difficult. Many people take prescription medication to manage this painful condition, as they must attend work to put food on the table and shelter their families. Unfortunately, arthritis can have a negative impact on a person’s life. Many try applying for governmental disability assistance, but find that it’s extremely difficult to qualify.

Topical ointments and creams may work for a time but are often smelly and sticky. If you’re suffering, you no longer need to—CBD oil has been proven to not only provide pain relief to the arthritis sufferer but to actually decrease the inflammation that can result from this condition.

 

What is Arthritis? Does CBD Oil for Arthritis Works

 

The word “arthritis” means “inflammation of the joints”. It’s a catch-all term for a variety of different ailments, including osteoarthritis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis. It’s an autoimmune disorder that commonly affects the hands and the feet, but can also affect the hips and knees too.

While some people are born with it, its most common form is a degenerative type of disease that is common for people over the age of 40 years old. It’s estimated that over 4% of the population is afflicted with one form or another. Arthritis can even be a symptom of a more serious illness, such as Lyme disease, hepatitis, psoriasis, Celiac, and many more.

Many people suffer in silence, thinking there is nothing they can do. If your grandparents suffered in silence last century, the good news is that you don’t have to, in this century.

 

What is CBD Oil for Arthritis?

 

The word “CBD” is also short for “cannabidiol”. This is a medicinal product that is obtained from hemp and marijuana, of the cannabis family. There are many different chemicals in marijuana and hemp  Some of these are called cannabidiols.

There can be a negative stigma associated with cannabis-related products. The good news is that CBD from hemp does not contain THC, which is the compound that makes people high. For this reason, CBD oil is sold in many of the states with a simple prescription. CBD is sold in an oil form that can be either ingested or rubbed directly onto the painful spots of your body.

 

How CBD Oil Can Help Arthritis Sufferers

 

CBD oil is being extensively studied for its benefits. It’s particularly beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis. Perhaps the first trials to test the oil occurred back in 2006. After test subjects gave it a try for five weeks, it was discovered that they experienced less pain and less inflammation. These trials were done with a product called Sativex. People who participated in the study also discovered that their sleep greatly improved and that the drug had few side effects, unlike taking prescription pain medication.

Another study done in 2008 had the same conclusion and without any side effects. Many arthritis sufferers end up taking expensive prescription opioids which lead to addiction and other bad side effects. Many patients can now get off the opioids and take CBD oil instead. It’s also a more affordable way to manage a painful health condition.

 

How Does CBD Oil Help Arthritis Sufferers?

 

While CBD does affect brain activity, it doesn’t do it the way that THC does. Inside the brain, the CB1 and CB2 pain receptors can turn on when a person is in pain. The CBD oil has a way to turn down these receptors and to also reduce inflammation in the body.

When a person has RA, their immune system attacks the tissue in their joints. The CBD oil can help reduce this process and even prevent permanent damage in the joints over the longterm. It can also have a beneficial effect on other symptoms, included reducing fatigue and even fever.

 

How Can You Use CBD Oil for Arthritis?

 

There are two main ways to take oil. One is to ingest it, and the other is to rub the oil into your skin. The CBD can be in the form of capsules to make them easier to swallow. There are also edibles, such as candy and cake to make it easier to take.

The oil can be applied directly to the skin to help with sore or achy joints. It may be also be made into an ointment or lotion format. Many compounding pharmacies can make it into a format that you can easily tolerate.

 

What Are the Usual Dosages?

 

You’ll need to work with your doctor to find the best dosage. Many products suggest a dosage of 2.5 milligrams (mg). There are also ones that suggest a dosage of 1000 mg for more serious health issues. It’s important to start out small, as it can be difficult to predict how your body will react. If you don’t notice any side effects, and you feel you need a bit more of the oil to manage your pain, you can slowly increase the dosage on the advice of your physician.

 

Are There CBD Oil Side Effects?

 

It’s important to buy your CBD oil from a trusted supplier. It should include FDA approvals and a full list of ingredients. There shouldn’t be any serious side effects when using CBD oil for arthritis, but it is possible there could be some minor side effects when you first start using it. The four more common ones are nausea, fatigue, diarrhea, and appetite changes. Side effects are lessened if you use it topically rather than orally.

 

Are You Ready to Try CBD Oil for Arthritis?

 

If you’ve been suffering from arthritis for some time you may have discovered that it doesn’t get better. But you can experience relief and a reduction in the inflammation from trying CBD oil for arthritis. If you’re tired of having a foggy brain from prescription pain relievers or using pharmacy-brand pain relievers that upset your stomach, you may also be a good candidate for trying CBD oil for arthritis. If you find that your current doctor is resistant to providing a prescription, check around and find another clinic who is willing to help you to feel better and help you to resume a normal life again.