Those who live with chronic pain are always looking for a way to find relief. They are often open to new ideas and willing to try promising products. According to the research, one thing they may want to get on their radar is CBD and hemp oil. These products may provide those who have chronic pain with one more tool to add to their chest of options that may help relieve the pain.
A study published in the July 2024 issue of the Journal of Addictive Diseases examined whether cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp oil were effective at helping people with chronic pain [1]. The study included 218 veterans over the age of 18 who were receiving treatment from a pain clinic in North Dakota. Of the participants, 81% were males, and just over half were between the ages of 60 and 80.
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The study participants participated in a survey. The survey showed that nearly 10% used CBD oil for pain relief. They also found that when the participants used CBD oil for their pain, there was a significant reduction in pain. Their study found that CBD oil does help with self-reported pain and that, increasingly, people who have chronic pain are turning to this type of therapy as it becomes legal in more states. Despite more states legalizing it, it is still considered illegal on a federal level.
In another study published in the July 2022 issue of the journal Cureus, researchers evaluated CBD’s efficacy, safety, and regulation on chronic pain [2]. They looked through the five most used medical databases and found nearly 2300 articles on the topic. After applying their inclusion criteria, they used 12 of the publications in their review.
They conclude that CBD is an excellent alternative to an opioid in chronic pain because CBD is non-intoxicating. The report states that CBD oils provide pain relief for various conditions, and they do so without intoxication. Their research shows that CBD and hemp oils have positive potential benefits in managing chronic pain.
Those who have chronic pain and are interested in trying CBD and hemp oil to see if it brings relief will want first to check to see if it is legal in their state. If it is, seek out a quality product that undergoes third-party testing and check its expiration date. Choose a brand with a good reputation, which can be done by asking friends, family, and healthcare practitioners.
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This article was originally published on Confronting Chronic Pain by Dr. Steven Richeimer, Director Pain Medicine and Pain Science Certificates.
Source:
- Journal of Addictive Diseases. Cannabidiol (CBD) and hemp oil use in veterans in VA Pain Clinic: a cross-sectional survey study. July 2024.
- Cureus. Efficacy, Safety, and Regulation of Cannabidiol on Chronic Pain: A Systemic Review. July 2022.
