CBD for Muscle Pain: Benefits and Effectiveness

Written by: Daniel Fayad, Subject Matter Expert and Website President
Published: March 15, 2024; Last updated: April 6, 2024

Are you struggling with muscle pain and looking for relief? You’re likely curious about whether CBD could offer you some respite. This article dives into the potential of CBD for muscle pain, examining its effectiveness and how it can be integrated into your pain management routine. With a focus on both science and practical advice, we’ll explore the various ways to apply CBD, ensuring you’re well-equipped to decide if it’s the right choice for your pain.

Key Takeaways

• CBD (cannabidiol) has shown potential for muscle pain relief due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, and its effectiveness can vary depending on dosage and type of pain.

• Topical CBD products like creams and patches are used for localized muscle pain, while oral CBD products are absorbed into the bloodstream for systemic relief from muscle aches and joint pain.

• Further research, including placebo-controlled trials and systematic reviews, is essential to determine the efficacy, safety, and optimal dosage of CBD for muscle pain management conclusively.

Understanding Muscle Pain and Its Causes

Understanding the causes of muscle pain is a necessary precursor to discussing the role of CBD in pain relief. Muscle discomfort, often called myalgia, can stem from various sources. Some common causes of muscle pain include:

• Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its tissues, leading to muscle pain

• Infections, both bacterial and viral, which can trigger muscle aches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and nausea

• Overuse or strain of the muscles, such as from exercise or repetitive movements

• Injuries, such as sprains or strains, which can cause muscle pain and inflammation

• Certain medications or medical treatments which can cause muscle pain as a side effect

By understanding the underlying causes of muscle pain, you can better determine if CBD may be a suitable option for pain relief.

Neuromuscular disorders, which affect both muscles and the nerves controlling them, can result in muscle weakness and pain. Even certain medications have side effects that can induce muscle pain. For instance, cancer treatments, blood pressure medications, and cholesterol-lowering drugs can all potentially lead to muscle discomfort. Furthermore, injuries or overuse of muscle groups during activities like work or exercise often result in muscle pain, a sign of exercise-induced muscle damage.

Chronic muscle pain goes beyond mere discomfort. It can significantly affect daily activities and overall well-being by impairing mobility, causing discomfort, and reducing the ability to perform tasks. Therefore, exploring effective pain management strategies, such as:

• CBD

• Physical therapy

• Heat or cold therapy

• Massage

• Stretching exercises

• Acupuncture

Becomes essential.

CBD’s Role in Pain Relief

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant. It’s been identified as having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially relieving pain. CBD shows more antioxidant activity than α-tocopherol or vitamin C and possesses anti-inflammatory effects that reduce immune cell migration, adhesion, and proliferation.¹

Clinical evidence suggests that CBD provides therapeutic benefits in certain forms of epilepsy¹ and imparts analgesia in specific conditions, which may contribute to an improved quality of life. Studies have revealed varying levels of effectiveness of CBD in the treatment of chronic pain, ranging from placebo-equivalent to highly effective, and it has been shown to significantly reduce pain in conditions such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and limb amputation.

How CBD interacts with the Endocannabinoid system

To understand how CBD potentially provides pain relief, one must first understand the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This complex cell-signaling system regulates various functions, including sleep, immune system responses, and pain. CBD modulates the activity of the ECS by increasing levels of anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid that binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors.

While CBD can activate, antagonize, or inhibit the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, it is known to be a weak agonist of CB1 receptors and possibly exhibit inverse agonism of the CB2 receptors. However, CBD’s interaction is not limited to the ECS. It also interacts with other receptor systems, including transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, which affect redox balance and inflammation.

CBD’s analgesic effects are linked to its interaction with various systems, including the vanilloid receptor type one (VR1) and the regulation of nociceptive responses by modulating neuronal activity. Its anti-inflammatory actions are supported by PPARγ receptor activation and elevation of endocannabinoid levels, resulting in decreased release of neurotransmitters and suppression of electrical activity associated with pain.

CBD’s impact on inflammation and pain perception

Inflammation plays a significant role in causing pain, and this is where CBD’s anti-inflammatory activity comes into play. CBD can indirectly improve anti-inflammatory effects by reducing levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating immune cell functions.

Moreover, CBD affects the redox balance indirectly by influencing components of the redox system and directly by interacting with molecular targets associated with redox system components. Its antioxidant effects include reducing lipid and protein modifications, thus helping to protect cells against oxidative stress.

Several factors, including treatment dose and the type of pain involved, influence the effectiveness of CBD’s analgesic properties. This emphasizes the importance of determining a therapeutic dose for pain relief.

Topical CBD for Muscle Soreness and Pain

Having established CBD’s role in pain relief, we can now examine its application for muscle pain relief. One commonly used form is topical CBD, which includes creams, lotions, balms, and patches. These are often used for minor discomfort in muscles and joints and to revitalize skin in distressed areas.

Topical CBD has been observed to be effective in treating chronic pain conditions in specific patient populations, demonstrating anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic effects in preclinical studies. For targeted muscle pain relief, CBD skin creams can be applied directly to the area of discomfort, with consistent daily use potentially enhancing their effectiveness.

Application and dosage

Applying topical CBD creams involves massaging them into the skin, focusing on the areas in pain. Performing a spot test before using new CBD topical products is advisable to prevent any adverse reactions.

If you’re new to CBD, start with a lower potency product, typically ranging from 3 to 8 mg per application, to gauge individual responsiveness. Strict adherence to the product label’s dosage instructions is critical to avoiding excessive use and potential side effects.

To determine the most effective and safe dosage, maintain a log of the effects when starting or adjusting the dosage of CBD products, noting both positive and adverse effects.

Potential side effects and precautions

Despite being generally well-tolerated, CBD topicals can potentially cause side effects such as:

• Tiredness

• Diarrhea

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Skin irritation, including itching, redness, or a rash at the application site.

Before using CBD cream, performing a patch test on the epidermal and dermal skin for potential irritation and consulting with a healthcare professional to address any concerns is advisable.

Choosing products from reputable brands with confirmed amounts of CBD per dose is essential. Care should be taken only to apply topicals externally, avoiding ingestion and open skin and starting with small quantities to gauge the effect.

Oral CBD for Chronic Muscle Pain and Systemic Relief

While topical CBD provides localized relief, oral CBD offers a different mode of action. Oral CBD products like oils and capsules are absorbed into the bloodstream and reach cannabinoid receptors throughout the body, potentially relieving muscle aches and joint pain.

In clinical settings, CBD has been observed to decrease pain by more than 30%² in fibromyalgia patients significantly more than placebo. Additionally, CBD demonstrated analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in mouse models of diabetic neuropathy and chemotherapy-induced pain, suggesting its potential use in chronic muscle pain relief.

Dosage and administration

When it comes to oral CBD, dosage is critical. An initial CBD dosage recommendation is approximately 0.2 mg of CBD per pound of body weight. However, lower doses of about 5 mg per day may be sufficient for mild muscle discomfort, and higher doses of up to 600 mg per day could be necessary for severe conditions, per medical guidance.

For better absorption, sublingual administration of oral CBD is recommended. This method enhances bioavailability by allowing more CBD to enter the bloodstream, bypassing initial metabolism by the liver.

As with topical CBD, it’s advised to begin with a lower CBD dosage, such as 5 to 10 mg per day, and to carefully escalate the dose, under a physician’s oversight, until the desired effects are achieved.

For precise dosing with CBD oil, utilize the dropper to calculate the amount of CBD per drop, determining the necessary number of drops for the intended dosage.

Safety and Potential Side Effects of CBD

Despite CBD’s potential benefits, it’s essential to be aware of its effects, which include possible side effects. While CBD is generally well-tolerated with daily doses of up to 1,500 milligrams, potential side effects can include:

• dry mouth

• diarrhea

• reduced appetite

• drowsiness

• fatigue

When considering the safety and side effects of a substance, it’s important to note that excessive amounts pose a risk of more severe side effects like liver damage.

CBD can interact with a range of medications, mainly:

• Blood thinners

• Heart rhythm drugs

• Thyroid medications

• Seizure medications

Therefore, a consultation with healthcare providers before starting CBD is critical.

Due to the lack of FDA regulation over most CBD products, there is no standardized dosing, highlighting the need for medical guidance to determine safe and effective dosages.

Comparing Topical and Oral CBD for Muscle Pain Relief

Choosing between topical and oral CBD should determine whether an individual needs targeted relief for a specific area or systemic relief for overall muscle discomfort. Topical CBD offers immediate, localized effects by being absorbed through the skin and directly targeting the area of discomfort. On the other hand, oral CBD provides systemic relief by entering the bloodstream and potentially aiding multiple areas of pain.

The effects from ingested oral CBD products generally last longer than topical applications, although the bioavailability is lower due to first-pass metabolism by digestive enzymes. This means that a higher dose may be required when using oral CBD compared to topical CBD to achieve the same level of relief.

Compared to isolates, full-spectrum CBD creams, enriched with a variety of other cannabinoids, may offer more benefits for pain relief. This is due to the “entourage effect,” where the various hemp plant components work together to enhance the therapeutic effects.

In contrast, oral CBD is often preferred for chronic conditions affecting the entire body, providing systemic relief. However, the choice between topical and oral CBD ultimately depends on individual needs and the type of pain experienced.

Alternative Methods for Muscle Pain Relief

While CBD offers promising potential for muscle pain relief, it’s also worthwhile to explore alternative methods to relieve pain. Commonly used over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen can help reduce muscle pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy, including massage, heat treatment, and manual therapies like osteopathy, can significantly aid in alleviating muscle pain and tension. Exercise therapy and mind-body techniques such as yoga also play a role in rehabilitation and pain management in muscle injuries and hip and knee osteoarthritis.

Alternative methods like herbal supplements, acupuncture, Reiki, and chiropractic adjustments can help treat pain, mitigate sore muscles, and enhance overall health. Heat therapy using hot cloths, heating pads, ultrasound, TENS, and biofeedback are effective methods for muscle pain relief.

A comprehensive approach to pain reduction includes regular exercise, adequate hydration, and a plant-based diet to diminish inflammation. This holistic approach, combined with CBD, can provide a powerful strategy for managing muscle pain.

Research and Future Developments in CBD for Muscle Pain

Recent studies indicate that CBD can modulate hyperalgesia, showcasing its effectiveness in both inflammatory and chronic neuropathic pain conditions. This demonstrates complex mechanisms for analgesic support in chronic pain management. However, the existing CBD research is often constrained by small cohort sizes, varied disease states, and a scarcity of clinical trials focusing on pure CBD.

There is an imperative need for future CBD research to include placebo-controlled trials and more explicit regulatory guidelines, as well as a systematic review, to establish its efficacy, safety, and optimal usage in clinical populations and for pain management.

CBD is gaining attention as a potential non-intoxicating alternative to opioids for chronic pain management, with a lower risk of addiction or dependency. However, conclusive evidence and clinical validation are required.

As exploring CBD’s potential for muscle pain relief continues, keeping abreast of the latest research and developments in the field becomes essential. By doing so, we can make informed decisions about our health and well-being.

Summary

In conclusion, CBD holds significant promise as a potential remedy for muscle pain. Whether used topically or orally, CBD interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system, potentially relieving pain and reducing inflammation. However, as with any treatment, it’s essential to consider potential side effects and consult a healthcare professional. With ongoing research and an increasing understanding of CBD’s therapeutic potential, the future of CBD as a pain management tool remains bright and encouraging.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain?

CBD has been found to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties in animal studies, and some users with arthritis report experiencing pain relief and inflammation reduction when using CBD.

Is CBD better than ibuprofen?

CBD may be a better option than ibuprofen due to its fewer side effects and reduced potential for creating contraindications with other medications.

What is the best CBD product for muscle pain?

CBD oils formulated explicitly for pain relief are the best products for muscle pain. For topical application, CBD creams are a practical choice.

What are the cons of CBD for pain?

CBD oil can cause side effects such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. It can also interact with other medications and may have issues with purity and dosage.

Is it better to take CBD before or after a workout?

Taking CBD before and after a workout is better for improved performance, reduced inflammation, and better recovery. CBD can help with stress reduction, oxygen delivery, inflammation, and muscle recovery.

References

Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I., & Skrzydlewska, E. (2019). Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 9(1), 21. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9010021

Argueta, D. A., Ventura, C. M., Kiven, S., Sagi, V., & Gupta, K. (2020). A Balanced Approach for Cannabidiol Use in Chronic Pain. Frontiers in pharmacology, 11, 561. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.00561

Hall, N., James, B., Bhuiyan, M. A. N., Crane, E., Falgout, C., & Murnane, K. S. (2023). Topical cannabidiol is well tolerated in individuals with a history of elite physical performance and chronic lower extremity pain. Journal of cannabis research, 5(1), 11. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-023-00179-8

professional, C. C. medical. (n.d.). Muscle pain: Causes, symptoms, treatment, prevention. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17669-muscle-pain

Written by Daniel Fayad - Subject Matter Expert and Website President

Dan Fayad is a results-driven healthcare administration expert and content writer. With a Master of Health Administration from the University of Southern California, he’s carved a niche for himself in the dynamic world of healthcare and business development. Dan uses his experience to educate and empower people on their wellness journeys.