“At least ten randomized, controlled trials on over one thousand patients have demonstrated the efficacy of cannabinoids for neuropathic pain. Other studies have demonstrated that cannabinoids can reduce the amount of opioid medication needed, lessen the buildup of tolerance, and reduce the severity of withdrawals.”
from: CBD A Patients Guide to Medical Cannabis
What is Neuropathy?
It’s described as a stabbing, burning, or tingling sensation by most. Having sciatica pain is another example of neuropathic pain. It’s no joke to experience any kind of pain be it chronic or acute and neuropathy is another painful example.
Neuropathy is a blockage of one or more peripheral nerves which causes numbness or weakness to occur to be reflected in whichever muscle is in it’s nerve pathway. Oftentimes, it is experienced in the hands or feet.
CBD has also been shown to be a potent anti-inflammatory. Pain often results from inflammation. Decreasing one’s inflammation can decrease pain. See Testimonial on CBD and Shoulder Pain.
Traditionally and Medicinally
Conventional treatments depend on the cause of the condition. Leg pain from a back injury is usually addressed with chiropractic care, physical therapy, NSAID drugs, steroid injections, pain killers, exercise, cold laser therapy, or the finally surgery.
Terrains (the body’s chemistry) of individuals, dictate paths to be taken for a more of a laser focus of methods for more specific benefits.
Terrains:
- Autoimmune Disease (rheumatoid arthritis or MS) will take the path of steroids, immunotherapy, and gabapentin.
- Endocrine Disease (diabetes, decreasing blood sugar levels) may improve the neuropathy symptoms.
- Virus Infection may simply over time improve their neuropathy.
There is no cure for those suffering from chronic neuropathy.
CBD & CBD2 Receptors
Topically:
For those suffering from chronic neuropathy, topical application of CBD may be beneficial. The skin has a very high concentration of CB2 receptors. This makes topical application of CBD beneficial in many cases.
Orally:
When consumed orally, CBD works by reducing the perception of pain. CBD “quiets” the pain signal sent from the injured nerve to the brain.
CBD May Indirectly Improve Neuropathy
As stated above, there are many causes of neuropathic pain. CBD may indirectly benefit some of the above causes of pain. For example, if one is suffering neuropathy due to a vial/ immune system dysfunction.
CBD has been shown to help support a healthy immune response. A well-regulated immune system may, in turn, decrease neuropathic symptoms.
Diabetes is a disease of inflammation and is a common cause of neuropathy. By supporting a healthy inflammatory response, could CBD improve neuropathy? Dr. Frank Michalski says “It’s not that far-fetched of an idea!”
CBD has been shown to help improve sleep. Your body recovers from injuries during periods of rest. Many people who suffer from neuropathic pain also have insomnia. Improved sleep may result in decreased pain.
Learn more about CBD and Neuropathy here