Cannabidiol (CBD) has numerous potential benefits, and researchers are increasingly studying its use as a treatment for sciatica pain. Here, we discuss our top picks and where to buy.
Shopping for CBD can be confusing as so many products are available, and people may not be familiar with much of the terminology around CBD.
Manufacturers tend to use three main types of CBD in their products. These are:
- Full-spectrum CBD: This contains all cannabinoids of the cannabis plant, including CBD and up to 0.3% THC.
- Broad-spectrum CBD: This contains a mixture of cannabinoids. It does not usually contain THC but may have trace amounts.
- CBD isolate: This is pure, isolated CBD without other cannabinoids.
Some research indicates that full-spectrum CBD may work best due to its “entourage effect.” This is where the various other cannabinoids and compounds in the cannabis plant work together with CBD to heighten its beneficial effects.
However, this does not mean that full-spectrum CBD is the best option for everyone. Each person needs to find what works best for them and their symptoms.
CBD products are available in many different forms, including:
- gummies
- tinctures
- oils, which a person takes orally
- balms, creams, and massage oils, which a person applies topically
Each type of product has benefits and drawbacks. For example, a person does not have to worry about determining the dosage with gummies, as each will contain a specific amount of CBD.
However, it can be difficult to know exactly how much CBD a person is applying to the body with topical products.
As CBD products are not currently regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), it can be difficult to know what a person is getting when purchasing a CBD product. All the products in this article have passed our screening process.
Many studies demonstrate links between CBD use and reduced symptoms of various ailments, including anxiety, nausea associated with chemotherapy, some forms of epilepsy, and pain. This means that CBD could also help with sciatica pain.
Using cannabis to treat pain is not a new phenomenon. Many groups have noted their use of cannabis for many ailments, from joint pain and muscle spasms to conditions such as gout and malaria.
However, the scientific proof backing many of these potential benefits remains unclear.
Researchers have suggested that CBD may be beneficial for a range of clinical conditions, including:
- pain
- inflammation
- epilepsy
- sleep disorders
- multiple sclerosis
- anorexia
- schizophrenia
- depression and anxiety disorders
Again, more research is necessary before researchers can definitively say that CBD can help relieve pain. However, there is a lot of evidence to suggest that it might.
How To Use CBD Products For Sciatica
To get the most out of using CBD for sciatica pain, determine the specific goals for its use:
- Easing pain in a sore spot: Individuals experiencing sciatic flare-ups in a specific location may find a topical product that best suits their needs, such as a CBD salve.
- Providing quick relief: CBD oil or tinctures may work quicker than other CBD products.
- Maintaining a consistent level of CBD: CBD capsules or gummies give people a more accurate idea of how much CBD they are taking and offer a convenient way to manage CBD use.
There is limited scientific evidence to support the use of CBD for sciatica pain in particular. One 2020 study found that treating chronic pain with CBD for 7 days or more was helpful.
However, further research into using CBD for pain is needed, and a person should speak with a doctor before using any CBD products.
As with anything a person ingests, especially for medicinal purposes, CBD can cause side effects.
In studies, the most common side effects associated with CBD products include:
- fatigue
- changes to appetite and weight
- diarrhea
It is also very important for a person to ensure they discuss the use of CBD products with a healthcare professional, as CBD can interact with several different medications.
If a person takes any medications or supplements that warn of interactions with grapefruit, they need to be careful using CBD. This is because they both interfere with drug-metabolizing enzymes known as cytochrome P450 enzymes.
One study in mice suggests that, in large quantities, CBD may cause liver toxicity. However, it is important to note that the researchers fed these mice vast quantities of CBD-rich cannabis extracts.
Below are some of the most common questions and answers about using CBD for sciatica pain:
Does Using CBD For Sciatica Pain Work?
Research is ongoing, as current studies do not provide conclusive evidence that supports the use of CBD to ease sciatica pain.
However, a 2019 study in mice has shown promising results for treating chronic pain, such as sciatica, with CBD.
Researchers have also found that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce pain.
Besides Using CBD, What Self-Care Practices Can People Try for Sciatica Pain?
Ice packs or ice massages may provide some relief in the first week after an injury or development of sciatica. After a week or so, heat can help promote blood flow and relax muscles.
Movement and stretching can also support blood flow, promote healing, and reduce pain.
A person should consult a doctor to determine which treatments may work best.
Does Using CBD For Sciatica Pain Make You High?
CBD does not cause people to feel “high.”
THC is a psychoactive compound found in cannabis and may cause a high feeling.
Can CBD Alleviate Nerve Pain?
A 2021 study has found that CBD can help alleviate nerve pain, although analgesic effects can vary depending on the dosage.
Further research is necessary to determine the effectiveness of CBD in treating nerve pain.
A person should seek a doctor’s advice before using CBD products.
Research to date, anecdotal claims, and historical evidence suggest that CBD may ease symptoms of a variety of health conditions, including pain.
A variety of oral and topical CBD products are available in numerous strengths. However, anyone wishing to try CBD should speak with a healthcare professional first, as it may interact with certain medications.
Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in Richmond Hill – Queens, and New Hyde Park – Long Island. Call the Queens office at (718) 215-1888 or (516) 419-4480 for the Long Island office to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialists, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko or Dr. Sonny Ahluwalia.
