CBD has been shown to be effective in treating pain and inflammation, making it a great option for alleviating discomfort from sports-related injuries. However, with the many CBD products on the market today— choosing the right product can be overwhelming.
We've got you covered with this blog post! Read on to find out which products are best for different types of injuries and where you should look when shopping for CBD products.
What is CBD and how does it work
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in the hemp plant. It offers therapeutic benefits without the psychoactive effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which means it's legal to buy and use CBD for pain relief. When applied topically, CBD can relieve muscle tension and swelling, which is great for treating sports injuries.
CBD works by activating your endocannabinoid system, which is a network of neurotransmitters and receptors in the brain that controls everything from sleep to digestion. When the cannabinoid receptors throughout the endocannabinoid system are activated, they promote homeostasis (balance) of all the systems in the body.
What products should I buy for my injury?
You'll find a wide variety of CBD products on the market, but here are some general guidelines to follow.
First off, it's important to determine what type of pain you're experiencing and if topical treatment is your best option. If the issue is injury-related muscle tension or swelling (especially from sports injuries), then applying a topical CBD product will be your best starting point.
Topical CBD absorbs through the skin to activate the cannabinoid receptors throughout the body. Once activated, your brain perceives pain signals as less intense, and your body can then heal more easily.
Oral products, like capsules and tinctures, are a good option for individuals dealing with chronic pain due to inflammation or neuropathic issues, like arthritis. Oral CBD is processed differently than topical products, so it doesn't activate the receptors in the same way.
How to use CBD for Sports Injuries
If you're experiencing inflammation or pain from a sports injury, start with topical CBD application. Depending on the severity of your discomfort, try applying twice daily for up to four days before reassessing. You can apply the product up to four times daily, but it’s best to start slowly.
Here’s the best way to apply topical CBD for sports injuries:
- Make sure the area you are applying the topical to is clean and moisture-free
- Apply the topical to the affected area
- Use up to 4 times daily, as needed
- Apply before activity that may cause symptoms to worsen
As with any new supplement, it's a good idea to consult with your doctor before starting. Remember that CBD is not a cure-all and may interact with other medications you're taking.
Benefits of using CBD for Sports Injuries
There are several benefits to using CBD topicals for sports injuries. Some of the most popular benefits include:
- Topical CBD products directly target the area of pain to alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling
- Can be applied before and after activity to prevent injuries or treat/speed up recovery post-activity
- Natural relief with no side effects
- No risk for addiction, like with many oral pain medications
Where can I find a reputable company that sells quality CBD products
One of the biggest concerns CBD users should have is in finding trustworthy products that are sourced with premium ingredients.
There are many ways you can find a reputable and trustworthy company.
Here are a few things you should look for when choosing a company to purchase from:
- Is the company transparent about their ingredients and sourcing?
- Is there a third-party lab test verifying that what's on the label is actually in the product?
- Does it have an appropriate expiration date?
FAQs on using CBD cream for sports injuries
If you're new to using CBD for sports injuries, you may have some questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we often hear from patients searching for pain relief using CBD products.
Is CBD addictive?
No, CBD isn’t addictive. There is no risk for addiction because there’s no high from CBD compared to THC (which can be addictive).
Is it legal in all 50 states?
Hemp-derived CBD is legal at the federal level because it does not have THC. But, every state has its own set of laws and you may need to look into how that affects what products are available for sale within your state
Can I use CBD before exercise?
Yes, CBD makes a wonderful addition to your pre-workout routine.
How often should I apply CBD for a sports injury?
For best results, you should apply it up to 4 times a day. Rub the product in liberally. Make sure to wash your hands after application.