CBD for Knee Pain (The Ultimate Guide)

• Studies suggested that cannabidiol (CBD) may help manage acute arthritic conditions by reducing inflammatory immune responses and lessening pain responses.
• Researchers have not fully confirmed CBD’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties in humans.
• The Arthritis Foundation recommends that individuals consult a doctor before taking CBD with any medication for arthritis, as CBD may interact with these drugs.

Individuals with knee pain arthritis may experience swollen and tender joints that can cause individuals to feel joint pain and stiffness, especially in the knee. These symptoms may worsen as individuals age.

With these conditions in mind, individuals may consider looking for alternative remedies to help manage this disease to alleviate its symptoms.

Health Report Live explores the purported therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) and how this cannabis-based substance may help individuals with arthritis.

This article also discusses the research behind CBD’s purported benefits, the compound’s pros and cons, the different CBD product types, and some CBD brands and that may help with knee and joint pain.

CBD for Chronic Knee Pain: What to Expect

Numerous research and clinical data suggest that cannabidiol (CBD), a compound derived from the cannabis plant, has potential benefits for various medical conditions.

Additionally, animal studies mentioned that CBD may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, suggesting it may work for arthritis. Arthritis is one of the causes of knee pain.

However, these studies are inconclusive and thus, do not prove that CBD has therapeutic effects. Additionally, the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has not approved CBD oil as a treatment for chronic knee pain.

Can CBD Help With Knee Pain?

There are no high-quality human studies supporting CBD use to help alleviate knee pain.

However, animal studies suggested that cannabidiol (CBD) may help manage joint diseases, such as acute arthritic conditions, by reducing pro-inflammatory immune responses and decreasing endogenous pain responses.

Thus, individuals considering using CBD for arthritis or knee pain management should first consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

CBD Oil and Knee Pain Relief

Researchers have not conducted extensive human clinical trials to determine the effects and benefits of CBD on knee pain.

However, a prescription medication containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD in a one-to-one ratio may help with certain types of pain, specifically neuropathic pain associated with multiple sclerosis (MS) and cancer pain that is unresponsive to opioid therapy.

Opioids are pain-relieving drugs that interact with the body’s opioid receptors to control pain perception and boost feelings of pleasure.

Meanwhile, THC is a cannabis plant-derived substance known for producing psychoactive effects or a feeling of “high” linked to marijuana use.

Neuropathic pain is injury or damage to the nerves that transfer information between the spinal cord and brain. MS is a condition wherein the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to nerve damage and causing individuals to lose their ability to walk.

On the other hand, cancer is a disease wherein some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other body parts. 

Can CBD Oil Help With Arthritis?

According to one survey conducted by the Arthritis Foundation, three out of four respondents mentioned that CBD may be effective in relieving symptoms associated with arthritis.

Among the respondents, 64% claimed to have improved physical function, over 30% had relief from morning stiffness, 71% claimed to have sleep improvements, and more than 30% experienced relief from fatigue symptoms.

Medical Marijuana, CBD Oil, and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Researchers have not thoroughly examined how CBD oil or medical marijuana helps manage rheumatoid arthritis. However, studies showed that CBD may help control chronic pain associated with arthritis.

One of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is painful swelling in the joints. CBD’s potential pain-relieving benefits may help manage pain caused by RA.

CBD Oil and Arthritis Pain Relief

One study showed that topical CBD application may have a therapeutic potential in relieving inflammation and pain of arthritis.

Results showed that transdermal CBD may help decrease joint swelling significantly.

However, these studies were performed on animals. Researchers have not validated CBD’s pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties in humans. Thus, scientists cannot fully confirm whether CBD is good for arthritis.

Researchers should conduct extensive and high-quality human clinical studies to determine how effective and safe CBD helps with arthritis.

Benefits for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Studies have not thoroughly determined whether or not CBD is beneficial for RA.

However, one study mentioned that CBD that is applied transdermally may help alleviate inflammation and decrease pro-inflammatory molecule secretions to help manage symptoms of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

Protect Yourself From Chronic Inflammation Damage

Chronic inflammation can lead to various life-threatening diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease characterized by high sugar levels in the bloodstream and can lead to circulatory, nervous, and immune disorders.

Individuals with conditions indicative of chronic inflammation should immediately see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

CBD Oil and Chronic Pain

Several studies suggest CBD may be a promising pharmaceutical agent to help manage pain, inflammation, anxiety, and seizures.

However, while animal studies suggested that CBD may be a potential drug for pain relief, there is a considerable lack of studies to confirm CBD’s effectiveness in humans.

How to Use CBD for Joint Pain

When using any CBD product, you should always follow the instructions on the product label and observe any side effects that manifest when using CBD and discontinue use if they become troublesome.

Is CBD Cream or Oil Better for Joint Pain?

Some CBD companies claim creams may be better for targeted joint pain relief. However, individuals who prefer an overall effect may consider orally administered CBD oils.

Effectiveness of CBD for Knee Pain

Despite inconclusive findings, past research suggested that CBD may help with knee or joint pain, such as pain caused by inflammatory arthritis.

In a 2020 study, researchers stated that CBD may have anti-arthritic potential and help manage symptoms by targeting the cells that cause inflammation.

Another study mentioned that CBD helped improve markers of inflammation, pain, and nerve damage in an animal model of osteoarthritis.

Furthermore, one animal study stated that CBD may reduce pain and inflammation in a rat model of arthritis.

What Evidence Shows That CBD Is Effective for Chronic Arthritis and Knee Pain?

Animal studies and laboratory trials have only explored CBD’s potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. However, well designed studies demonstrating compelling evidence that CBD is effective and safe for chronic arthritis pain in humans do not exist.

Most studies investigating the effectiveness of CBD for knee pain or arthritis have been inconclusive, and more extensive research may help researchers gather more substantial information to confirm CBD’s effects on these conditions.

One review examining the effects of cannabis mentioned that there may be substantial evidence that cannabis may work for chronic pain in adults. However, the study made no specific conclusion regarding CBD.

Pros and Cons of Using CBD for Knee and Joint Pain

The benefits and downsides of using CBD for knee and joint pain are as follows:

Side Effects and Risks of CBD for Knee Pain

Researchers have not extensively investigated CBD’s side effects when used for knee pain specifically.

However, the side effects of CBD generally include drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, reduced appetite, and diarrhea.

Risks and Considerations

CBD may inhibit the cytochrome P450 enzymes’ activities. This enzyme group comprises more than 50 enzymes, of which six metabolize 90% of drugs.

At high enough doses, CBD may block these liver enzymes’ activities and affect the effectiveness of the metabolized drugs.

CBD Creams for Arthritis and Osteoarthritis

Some CBD brands claim that CBD creams may help individuals with arthritis as the product may provide relief by reducing inflammation. Inflammation and swelling of the joint linings typically cause arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

CBD brands also market CBD creams as a preventive product and not only for relieving pain. These brands suggest using CBD creams regularly to help strengthen the immune system and increase joint health.

Is CBD Right for You?

If you have an existing medical disorder or are taking prescription medication, consult with your doctor before purchasing and taking CBD products.

Consider taking a low dosage if you use a CBD product for the first time. If you believe CBD works for your needs, you may consider gradually increasing the dosage.

Should You Give CBD a Try?

Despite various claims regarding CBD’s benefits, there is a lack of quality clinical studies regarding CBD and arthritis. Thus, you should consider the following points before taking CBD:

• CBD is not a prescription medication and should not be used as a substitute for disease-modifying treatment for inflammatory arthritis.
• Arthritis patients, especially older adults interested in trying CBD, should talk to their healthcare provider before trying the product.

Healthcare providers can review existing studies or past medical information about CBD use to know how to do a trial run or when a patient should return for a follow-up visit to evaluate the results.

Taking the First Step

If you are taking CBD for the first time, one consideration is to determine your preferred CBD product type and administration method, as mentioned below:

What Type of Product Should You Consider?

Depending on your preferred administration method, CBD products can be taken orally, inhaled, or applied to the skin.

By Mouth

CBD products administered through the mouth are typically swallowed, whether in capsule form or as food or liquid. Onset time is typically around 30 to 90 minutes, and effects may last six to eight hours.

Oral CBD products include edibles such as gummies, chews, candies, or cookies.

On the Skin

CBD topicals have a wide product selection to cater to numerous individual preferences. These products include CBD creams, lotions, balms, salves, and ointments.

Inhaled

CBD can be inhaled through vaporizing using a vape pen. However, inhalation of vapor oils and chemical byproducts carries unknown risks, particularly for people with inflammatory arthritis.

Moreover, individuals are advised against using vapes as these products can cause health risks linked to lung disease. Before smoking or vaping CBD, consumers must exercise caution and be wary of these risks.

CBD Guidance for Adults With Arthritis

The Arthritis Foundation provides the following guidelines for using CBD among adults:

• When taking CBD in liquid form, be aware that it contains a carrier oil. Thus, CBD in this form has two measures: the amount or dose of the liquid to take and the amount of CBD per dose.
• To take CBD, you should start with a few milligrams of the product in the sublingual form twice a day. If relief is insufficient after a week, consider increasing the dose by that same amount.

You may also consider going up in small increments over several weeks. When you find relief, maintain that dose twice daily to keep the CBD level in the blood stable.

• If CBD alone does not work and you live in a state with legal medical or recreational marijuana, ask your doctor about taking a CBD product with a low-dose THC.

However, THC may get you “high” even at low levels and create cognitive, motor, and balance issues. To minimize the risk of unwanted effects, consider taking THC-containing products at home or at night.

• If you still do not attain the desired results with CBD alone or with a CBD-THC combination after several weeks, CBD may not be suitable for you.
• If you encounter unwanted side effects while using a CBD product, discontinue use immediately and inform your doctor.

CBD Overview

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a phytocannabinoid (plant-based cannabinoid) derived from the cannabis plant. CBD extracts typically come from hemp, a cannabis variety containing a high amount of CBD and about 0.3% THC.

CBD has been the focus of various research regarding the substance’s therapeutic potential to address various health issues.

For example, studies showed that CBD may help manage chronic pain, addiction, insomnia, and epilepsy.

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD is a cannabinoid, a substance found in cannabis plants. Marijuana and hemp harvested from various cannabis strains such as Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa usually contain CBD.

Cannabinoids are chemical messengers interacting with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).

The ECS is a vast network of cannabinoid receptors and chemical signals within your brain and body. The ECS regulates and controls many critical body functions, such as the following:

• Immune and inflammatory responses
• Pain control
• Sleep
• Temperature control
• Memory and learning
• Emotional processing

CBD is a plant-based substance typically marketed as a supplement or alternative medicine rather than a drug that underwent rigorous pharmaceutical research and development.

How Can CBD Help?

Studies suggest that the health benefits of CBD may include anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, antioxidant, anxiolytic (antianxiety), and analgesic (pain-relieving) effects.

Furthermore, animal studies and human research suggest that CBD works by helping manage anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and addiction.

Using CBD Oil

Individuals may choose a CBD product depending on their preferred method of administering CBD to help manage various medical issues. These methods include:

• Ingestion: In this method, individuals take CBD through the oral route. The drug goes through the body’s digestive system and is absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Sublingual administration: This method involves placing one or more drops of CBD oil under the tongue. This method allows the substance to bypass the digestive system and get absorbed into the bloodstream directly.

Sublingual CBD products include tinctures, oromucosal sprays, and high-potency oils. Tinctures are sublingual CBD products administered using a calibrated dropper for accurate dosing.

CBD oil may have an earthy or grassy taste. Some consumers may prefer mixing CBD oil tinctures with food or drinks.

• Topical application: The topical route involves applying CBD products directly to the skin. In this method, CBD topicals do not get absorbed into the bloodstream. However, they may provide pain relief to the area the product is applied.
• Inhalation: This delivery route provides a quick way to administer cannabis, making inhalation appropriate for problems such as nausea or acute pain.

Inhalation allows CBD to affect the lungs, heart, and brain before spreading the drug in the body.

Researchers do not fully understand how vaping affects overall health. However, there may be ample evidence that vaping is not 95% less harmful than smoking, as some individuals claim.

Before taking any CBD products, individuals with existing medical conditions must consult a doctor, preferably one well versed in CBD or cannabis use.

Is CBD Oil Safe?

The World Health Organization (WHO) mentioned in a committee report that CBD does not exhibit effects that may indicate a potential for abuse and the compound may have a good safety profile.

Is It Safe for Older Adults?

Some U.S. states have legalized medical marijuana, thus, doctors in these states can prescribe to older adults. Marijuana contains CBD and THC.

Individuals averse to THC or its psychoactive effects may take CBD oil products containing less than 0.3% THC. However, additional research is required to determine the safety of using CBD for older adults or seniors.

What Are CBD Creams?

CBD creams are topical products that brands claim may help with skin conditions and muscle, joint, and nerve pain when applied directly to the skin.

Some brands also claim to formulate their CBD creams to be suitable for knee pain or market these products as applicable for reducing inflammation, relieving pain, strengthening joint health and the immune system, and reducing depression and anxiety.

What Ingredients Are in CBD Creams?

The ingredients in CBD creams vary depending on the specific product. For example, some CBD creams contain the following ingredients:

• Vitamin E: This substance has antioxidant properties and is vital for the health of your brain, blood, and skin.
• Jojoba oil: This oil may produce antioxidant effects and may have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-acne benefits.
• Aloe vera extract: This extract may help in managing burns, healing wounds, and helping with gastrointestinal disorders.

What Are CBD Creams Used for?

Some brands claim that CBD creams may be used to manage various kinds of pain, such as those associated with inflammation, arthritis, and fibromyalgia.

Some customers also claim that CBD cream may help with physical aches and discomfort in the knee area, including the joints. 

However, researchers must conduct further studies to prove these claims.

Is CBD Cream Safe to Use?

Despite insufficient studies, some individuals use CBD creams as an alternative natural remedy for chronic knee discomfort and other arthritis or inflammation pain.

However, you must exercise caution when using products that you put on your body to ensure you do not experience adverse effects, such as allergies. Consider testing the cream on a small skin patch before covering a larger area.

When in doubt about CBD’s effects, consult a doctor for assistance before using the product.

Benefits of CBD Creams for Knee and Joint Pain

CBD creams are convenient to apply as you simply rub them onto the skin where you are experiencing pain. If unsure how to apply the product, check the label or packaging for instructions first.

CBD brands may formulate their CBD cream products with other ingredients that may help hydrate and nourish the skin or address other health conditions.

Are There Downsides to CBD Treatment?

Topical CBD applied to the skin may relieve a local area and has zero bioavailability, meaning the product is not absorbed into your bloodstream.

While this factor may pose a lower risk of side effects and drug interactions associated with ingested products, the effects of CBD topicals may only be limited to the area where you applied the product.

Additionally, prices of CBD products vary widely and, depending on the dose, frequency, formulation, and seller’s discretion, the cost to purchase such products can be significantly high.

What Are the Side Effects of CBD Creams?

CBD creams are topical products applied to the skin. One disadvantage of topical administration is that drugs applied this way may have low skin penetration.

However, researchers have not thoroughly explored the adverse effects of CBD when applied topically. Thus, individuals should exercise caution when applying CBD products to the skin.

What You Can Expect From Treatment

Aside from the FDA-approved Epidiolex containing pure CBD, the FDA does not endorse any CBD product as a treatment for any medical condition.

Thus, until proven that CBD is an effective treatment for specific ailments, individuals should not use CBD immediately for treating any disease.

Unproven Therapy

Most of CBD’s benefits come from inconclusive scientific data, anecdotal reports from consumers, or claims from CBD manufacturers. However, most of these pieces of information are unproven until more extensive, well designed research is conducted.

Additionally, doctors need more proof before confidently recommending cannabis products to treat rheumatic diseases.

How to Use CBD Cream and Oil for Knee Pain: Step by Step Guide

Before applying CBD cream to your skin, you should check the ingredients listed on the product label or review the product’s COA. This step ensures that the product does not contain any harsh chemicals that are unsafe or may irritate your skin.

Some individuals may have allergic reactions to specific ingredients such as menthol, peppermint oil, or wintergreen oil.

Thus, before putting CBD cream on your skin, apply a small amount of CBD cream to the back of your wrist. After several minutes, check if you have an allergic reaction.

Some CBD brands include instructions on the label on how to apply the product. For example, you should rub the CBD cream onto your knee area for 30 seconds and wait at least 60 minutes before changing clothes to ensure the product has enough time to take effect.

How Much CBD Should You Use?

The FDA has not approved any standard CBD dosing guides for knee pain.

Additionally, scientists have not conducted extensive studies determining a suitable dose of CBD to administer to individuals with knee pain or arthritis.

Furthermore, CBD dosage may vary from one individual to another because of differences in diet, stress levels, exercise, genetics, and health conditions.

Dosage

One recommendation is to take CBD, beginning with a low dose and slowly increasing the dosage.

For example, individuals using CBD-rich products for the first time may start with a 10mg dose of CBD daily.

Before deciding on a specific CBD dose, individuals should consult a doctor, preferably one well versed in CBD or cannabis use, to determine a CBD dosage appropriate for the individual’s needs.

Are There Guidelines About Using CBD for Knee Pain?

The FDA has not endorsed any guidelines for using CBD for knee pain. However, some CBD brands include instructions on the label or packaging to help individuals administer the product.

Additionally, here are some guidelines to consider when using a CBD product for knee pain:

• You should consider a CBD product independently tested for purity, potency, and safety or one that has received a “Good Manufacturing Practices” (GMP) certification.
• CBD should be part of an overall pain management plan and not taken as the only remedy for a particular condition.
• You should set initial treatment goals that you can accomplish within a realistic period. For example, one objective is moderate knee pain reduction, allowing you to walk around the block two weeks after starting treatment.

How to Know if You Have an Allergic Reaction?

To test if you are allergic to CBD creams, apply a small amount on the back of your wrist and wait for a few minutes. If a reaction such as redness, swelling, or itchiness occurs, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

How Long Will CBD Creams for Knee Pain Last?

CBD creams have an onset time of 15 to 30 minutes and may last two to four hours, depending on the product and how much you apply.

Some CBD brands may suggest applying a thin layer of CBD cream and waiting for 60 minutes before dressing up. This method may help your CBD cream last longer.

How to Store CBD Creams for Knee Pain

To preserve the effectiveness and potency of CBD creams, store the product in a cool, dark place.

One study mentioned that air oxidation and exposure to light (not direct sunlight) may be significant factors in the loss of cannabinoids in the solution.

Thus, storing the cream in a well lit place may cause the CBD to degrade over time.

A Quick Glimpse at Some of the Best CBD Products for Joint and Knee Pain

No single factor determines what CBD product is considered the best or most effective for knee or joint pain. What some consumers believe is the best brand or product for their needs may differ from others.

However, individuals may consider looking into specific brands and products reputed to have a good record of safety and trust. These considerations should help customers select a high-quality CBD product for their needs.

List of Best CBD Products

Individuals interested in purchasing the best CBD oil products to help with knee pain or arthritis may consider looking into the following brands and products:

CBD Oil

Charlotte’s Web 60mg Oil

According to the CBD brand’s product page, Charlotte’s Web’s Max Strength 60mg/1ml CBD Oil contains 60 milligrams (mg) of CBD per milliliter (ml) of full-spectrum hemp extract.

Available flavors are mint chocolate, orange blossom, and lemon twist. The product is priced at $119.99 for a 30ml bottle and $274.99 for 100ml. However, customers can subscribe to the company’s website for a 20% discount on products.

Green Roads 50mg CBD Oil

Green Roads sells various CBD oil products, including its full-spectrum CBD oil claimed to be formulated with 1,500mg of CBD per 30ml bottle (50mg of CBD per ml).

The company claims this product to be pharmacist-formulated and tested by independent labs. The product has a natural sweet taste and is vegan and gluten-free with no artificial colors or flavors.

As of June 2022, Green Roads Full Spectrum CBD Oil (30ml) 1,500mg has a retail price of $109.99. Consumers who subscribe to the brand’s website can purchase the product for $87.99.

Gummies

Joy Organics CBD Gummies 300mg

Joy Organics claims that this product helps individuals de-stress, relax, and unwind. One 300mg pack of CBD gummies contains 30 gummies containing 10mg of CBD per gummy. This product comes in strawberry lemonade and green apple flavors.

A one-time purchase of this product costs $39.95. Customers who subscribe can get a 20% discount ($31.96). Orders above $50 have free shipping.

Cream

Green Roads Pain Relief CBD Cream – 750mg

Green Roads considers its Pain Relief CBD Cream – 750mg product one of its bestsellers and claims that the product has high-rating reviews from customers.

This product contains CBD, menthol, and methyl salicylate, which the company claims may help users deal with arthritis, backaches, muscle pain, sprains, or strains.

Additionally, this cream has vitamin E, avocado oil, and cucumber extract, which the company claims to be beneficial to the skin.

Green Roads suggests applying this product to an affected area no more than three to four times daily.

Each bottle contains 750mg of CBD and costs $39.99. Customers subscribed to the company’s website can purchase this product for $31.99.

Joy Organics 250mg CBD Cream

This product contains 250mg of CBD and is claimed to help nourish dry, cracked skin and revitalize joints and muscles.

One bottle of Joy Organics 250mg CBD Cream costs $32.95. However, customers can get a 20% discount upon subscription to the website. Individuals who place orders worth $50 or more are entitled to free shipping.

How to Choose the Best Products

Individuals may look into the extraction method manufacturers use when choosing the best CBD products. These extraction processes include the following:

• CO2 extraction: This method uses liquefied and highly pressurized carbon dioxide for deriving the CBD extract. Many manufacturers consider this CO2 extraction the safest method to obtain CBD.
• Hydrocarbon extraction: This method uses hydrocarbon solvents such as butane or propane to obtain CBD from the hemp plant.

Hydrocarbons are flammable and neurotoxic. Insufficiently removed solvents may be accidentally ingested and cause a health risk.

• Ethanol extraction: This method uses ethanol for extracting CBD from cannabis. Different cultures have used ethanol extraction for centuries to derive medicinal compounds from cannabis plants.

How to Shop for CBD Oil for Knee Pain

You should consider the following tips to help you look for the appropriate CBD oil product to help with arthritis or knee pain:

Find the Right CBD Product for You: Pick the CBD Formulation You Want to Use

To find the right CBD product, you should consider choosing a CBD formulation that fits your needs or preferences.

CBD products come in various forms and have different onset times depending on the administration method.

CBD Type

There are three forms of CBD: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, and isolate.

• Full-spectrum CBD oil: This product typically contains all beneficial cannabis plant compounds and cannabinoids, including THC, flavonoids, and terpenes.

Flavonoids are plant substances that may have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Meanwhile, terpenes are essential oil components that produce a distinct aroma.

Combining these compounds in a full-spectrum CBD oil product may produce an “entourage effect.” This effect occurs when the active cannabis compounds synergize to produce better therapeutic results.

• Broad-spectrum CBD oil: This product contains most of the compounds and cannabinoids in full-spectrum CBD products. However, broad-spectrum CBD products have no THC.
• CBD isolates: These products comprise of pure CBD only. CBD isolates have no THC and contain no other cannabinoids or compounds.

Individuals averse to THC or its psychoactive effects may consider using CBD isolates or broad-spectrum CBD oil.

On the other hand, consumers who prefer the full benefits of the entourage effect may purchase full-spectrum CBD oil products.

Ingredients

CBD oil tinctures often contain carrier oils to help dilute the CBD concentrate. Manufacturers may use olive oil, medium-chain triglyceride oil (MCT oil), or coconut oil as carrier oils.

Look for Signs of High-Quality CBD

One indicator of a high-quality CBD product is its certificate of analysis (COA), meaning the product has undergone third-party testing and has been deemed free from contaminants.

Third-Party Testing

Transparent and reputable CBD brands typically send product samples to third-party labs for analysis to determine the actual cannabinoid content of these products.

The results of third-party testing are recorded in a COA, which helps ensure that the product contains what the CBD brand claims to possess.

Third-party analysis and testing are industry-standard procedures to reduce the concerns surrounding falsely labeled products.

Available COA

Reputable and transparent CBD companies should provide COAs for their CBD products.

COAs should also show whether the product has harmful contaminants, such as solvents, pesticides, or heavy metals, that can cause a health hazard to consumers.

When looking for high-quality products, consider purchasing from CBD brands that upload complete and updated COAs on their websites. You can compare the COAs to the information on the product label to ensure consistency.

Pick the Right Dose

The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) has not endorsed a CBD dosage guide specific to arthritis.

Individuals using CBD products for the first time may consider starting with a low dose and gradually increasing the dosage.

For example, one dosing suggestion in administering CBD is to start with a 10 milligram (mg) daily dose.

Individual dosage may vary depending on the consumer’s diet, stress levels, exercise, genetics, and overall health conditions.

Where to Get CBD Products

Individuals interested in buying and using CBD products may purchase them through online stores or dispensaries that sell these products.

Some online stores offer subscriptions, discounts, and free shipping, which may attract potential customers to purchase the company’s CBD products. 

However, you should also check the products’ lab test results, usually available on the product page, to ensure you are getting a safe and potent product.

How to Discuss CBD With Your Doctor

Individuals with knee or arthritis should converse with their doctor before taking CBD or any other supplement. Doing so allows them to inform you if CBD will potentially worsen a chronic condition or interact with any medications you take.

Most studies on CBD and knee pain are limited or inconclusive. Thus, your doctor may have limited knowledge regarding CBD. Additionally, there is insufficient research about the CBD’s benefits, recommended dosages, or formulations.

Alternatives Products for Knee and Joint Pain

One approach to treating joint pain due to arthritis involves taking over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil)

Some individuals and marketers claim that the following natural products may also help with inflammation and pain:

• Turmeric
• Boswellia
• Ginger
• Capsaicin
• Cat’s claw

What Causes Knee Pain?

The following health conditions may cause you to experience pain in the knees:

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes tenderness and swelling in one or more joints. An individual with arthritis typically experiences joint pain and stiffness that can worsen with age. Other arthritis symptoms include redness and decreased range of motion.

Two common arthritis types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune inflammatory disorder wherein your immune system attacks your body’s tissues. This condition affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can result in joint deformation and bone erosion.

Meanwhile, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage (connective tissues within the body) breaks down and causes the underlying bone to change. Osteoarthritis symptoms include stiffness, pain, and swelling.

A Word About Arthritis Pain

There are over 100 types of arthritis. Although pain is common in these conditions, they do not act the same.

Additionally, a treatment that works for one arthritis type may not work for another.

Although treatment for all arthritis types aims to maintain function and reduce pain and stiffness, certain conditions like rheumatoid arthritis require conventional prescription medications to help minimize or prevent permanent joint damage that may result in worsening disability.

Knee Injuries

Trauma to one or more knee joint tissues, such as the cartilage, ligaments, tendons, muscles, or bones, can cause knee injuries. Incidents such as falling, forceful knee twisting, or getting hit by a motor vehicle can cause these injuries.

Common knee injuries include dislocations, fractures, sprains, and tears.

Runner’s Knee or Patellar Knee Tracking Disorder

Patellar tracking disorder is a condition wherein the kneecap (patella) shifts out of place whenever the leg straightens or bends. The kneecap can shift too far forward or toward the inside.

Causes of patellar tracking disorder include the following:

• Weak thigh muscles
• Structural problems with the knee bones’ alignment
• Too weak or too loose leg tendons, muscles, or ligaments
• Repeated actions such as twisting that cause knee stress
• Traumatic knee injury, such as a blow that pushes the kneecap outward

Symptoms of patellar tracking disorder include pain in front of the knee, a popping, grinding, or sliding feeling in the kneecap, or a buckling sensation in the knee.

Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome

The iliotibial band is a tendon running along the outside of the leg from the top of the pelvic bone to the knee. 

Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when this tendon gets swollen or irritated from the friction due to rubbing against the hip or knee bones.

Symptoms of this condition include hip and knee pain, redness, warmth, and clicking sensations outside the knee.

CBD Glossary

• Cannabidiol (CBD): A phytocannabinoid (plant-based cannabinoid) derived from the cannabis plant. 
• Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC): A cannabis plant-derived substance that produces psychoactive effects or a feeling of “high.”
• Full-spectrum CBD: A CBD product containing all the cannabinoids and compounds from the cannabis plant.
• Broad-spectrum CBD: A form of CBD extract containing most of the cannabis plant compounds except for THC.
• CBD isolate: A CBD product containing pure CBD only.

Visit HealthReportLive.com for more information about chronic pain or other types of pain that may affect you as you grow older. HRL also provides exercise and diet tips to help elderly individuals manage pain effectively.

FAQs

Are CBD products legal?

The legality of using CBD oil or medical cannabis varies from one state to another. Before purchasing CBD products, consumers must understand their state’s laws regarding cannabis or CBD use.

Under U.S. federal law, CBD products with more than 0.3% THC are considered illegal.

The 2018 Farm Bill exempted hemp and hemp-based CBD products, whose THC content does not exceed 0.3%, from the definition of “marijuana” under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The law also sets up a regulatory framework for hemp production in the United States.

In June 2018, the FDA approved Epidiolex, an oral solution containing purified CBD used as a medication to treat seizures associated with epilepsy and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Some U.S. states with regulated cannabis programs as of February 2022 include Arizona, California, Nevada, Colorado, and New York.

The FDA states that labeling CBD as a dietary supplement or marketing them as food additives is illegal. The agency has limited information about CBD’s safety and advises that real risks must be considered before using the substance.

Will CBD help with knee pain, and will it be better than the currently available drugs?

Studies on the effects of CBD on knee pain are inconclusive and do not provide conclusive evidence that the substance is better than currently available drugs.

If you are experiencing knee pain, you must consult your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment before taking CBD.

How long does CBD oil take to work for knee pain?

Researchers have not conclusively determined CBD’s onset times or the time before the drug starts working in the body, specifically for joint pain relief in humans.

However, CBD’s onset times, in general, may vary based on the chosen delivery route, such as the following:

• Topical application: 15 to 30 minutes
• Transdermal application: 15 to 30 minutes
• Sublingual administration: 15 to 30 minutes
• Oral ingestion: 30 to 90 minutes
• Inhalation: 2 to 15 minutes

What type of CBD is best for knee and joint pain?

There is no evidence that any particular CBD type works best for knee and joint pain.

However, orally taken drugs typically spread throughout the bloodstream and thus, may affect the entire body. 

On the other hand, topical products affect a specific area where you apply the product.

Thus, individuals who prefer to have CBD’s effects focus on the knee area may opt for a topical CBD product. Alternatively, individuals who want to experience CBD’s effects throughout the body may use oral products instead.

Is CBD good for inflammation?

Various studies suggest that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. However, these findings do not serve as concrete evidence and researchers must conduct further studies to confirm CBD’s anti-inflammatory benefits.