Is CBD right for me?

If you’ve been living with chronic pain for a while, CBD is most probably on your radar. It’s fast becoming a popular addition to chronic pain management strategies and some who have tried it report a boost in overall well-being and improvements in chronic pain symptoms. 

But trying any new chronic pain treatment can feel daunting, especially if you’ve had limited success with other treatments in the past. 

So, you may be thinking, ‘Is CBD the right choice for me?’ 

While chronic pain is a unique, individual experience, it helps to be open to trying different treatments until you find the one that works for you. 

To help you make an informed decision about whether CBD could work for your condition, I’ve rounded up the benefits and considerations of using CBD for chronic pain management. Let’s explore. 

First things first, what on earth is CBD? 

I’ll spare you the scientific stuff and keep things simple for now so, put simply, CBD(cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring component in the cannabis sativa plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system in your body – a system that aids overall health and well-being.

Unlike its counterpart, THC, CBD does not produce a ‘high’ and has very few reported side effects. 

That’s great, you may be thinking, but what’s that got to do with chronic pain? 

While research into CBD and its benefits is ongoing, there are plenty of studies that report several benefits when it comes to the improvement of chronic pain symptoms. These benefits are said to include: 

• Reduced inflammation – CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, potentially improving symptoms of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. 
• Improved sleep – conditions like fibromyalgia often negatively impact sleep. CBD may improve sleep quality and could, in turn, improve symptoms of certain chronic pain conditions. 
• Mood improvements – CBD is reported to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, two common concerns seen in those suffering from chronic pain conditions. 

While these benefits sound fantastic, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering adding CBD to your chronic pain management strategy: 

• Quality – CBD products can differ greatly in quality. Ensure you’re choosing high-quality, reputable products that adhere to guidelines. 
• Interaction with other medications – CBD may interact with medications you are already taking. Check this with your GP before taking CBD of any kind. 

I wish I could give you a definitive answer! But in all honesty, chronic pain management is incredibly personal. What works for someone else may not work for you, and vice versa. 

The best thing you can do if you’re considering using CBD is to weigh up the pros and cons. Speak to your healthcare provider, keep an open mind and give it a try if you feel ready and fully informed. 

For me, CBD has become an integral part of my chronic pain management strategy and I wouldn’t be without it. But that’s me. 

Chronic pain management is about doing what’s best for you. 

For more information on using CBD for chronic pain or for some support in managing your condition, please do not hesitate to get in touch.