Will CBD Oil Help Sciatica?

Cannabidiol or CBD as it is commonly referred to- is known to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. For many, this prompts the question, “will CBD oil help sciatica?”. In today’s blog, we look at how cannabidiol may potentially help with relieving sciatic pain.

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Will CBD oil help sciatica? What is sciatica?

Sciatica is the term that is used to describe the nerve pain that occurs at the buttocks and down the legs, that is caused by irritation and/or compression of the sciatic nerve. It is not a medical diagnosis, but rather a term used to describe the symptoms caused by an underlying medical condition.

Typically, sciatica originates in the lower back, runs deep, down the back of the buttocks and then travels down the leg. The symptoms of sciatica are usually felt along the path of the sciatic nerve, and include:

  • Pain: usually a constant burning or shooting pain that begins in the lower back and radiates down the leg
  • Numbness: sometimes numbness, tingling and/or weakness may also be present
  • One-sided symptoms: usually only one side of the body is affected by sciatica
  • Posture-induced symptoms: sometimes symptoms are worse in certain positions or when performing certain movements.

Sciatica may be caused by a number of underlying conditions, including:

  • Herniated lumbar disc
  • Lumbar spinal stenosis
  • Lumbar degenerative disc disease
  • Spondylolisthesis
  • Muscular spams
  • Sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Will CBD oil help sciatica? A chronic pain issue.

Sciatica is typically a chronic pain issue that affects sufferers in their everyday life. Prescription painkillers and over the counter medications often come with various unwanted side effects, so it is only natural that those who suffer with this chronic pain may question will CBD oil help sciatica.

It is worth noting that there are two types of pain caused by sciatica: neuropathic (caused by inflammation, irritation, neural tissue compression) and nociceptive (triggered as the body reacts to painful stimuli). Research indicates that CBD can alleviate both of these types of pain.

There is a substantial body of evidence that already describes CBD as a powerful anti-inflammatory, but also, specific research indicates that CBD can treat neuropathic pain- a key component of sciatic pain.

Whilst there is no specific human research that indicates CBD can treat sciatica, there is lots of anecdotal evidence, as well as numerous studies that provide ample suggestive evidence indicating that CBD oil can help people suffering with sciatica.

Will CBD oil help sciatica? Can it cure the problem?

While CBD won’t cure sciatica, will CBD help sciatica? Yes, it can potentially provide relief from some of the most troublesome symptoms, being pain and inflammation. CBD will not treat the underlying cause of the sciatica, however it is still a useful remedy, a natural alternative to using potentially harmful painkillers. Research shows that CBD has a very high safety profile and is generally well-tolerated, even at very high doses.

Will CBD oil help sciatica? How much should I take?

It is always best to speak with your doctor prior to commencing a CD regimen, especially if you are already taking prescription medications. Generally, it is best to start at the lower end of the dosing scale, and increase periodically if you need to.

Disclaimer

The information that is provided in the post above, “Will CBD Oil Help Sciatica?”, is intended for educational purposes only. Transcending Organics wishes to advise that this blog is not intended to diagnose or treat any type of illness or medical condition, and the information contained should not be taken as general or medical advice. Transcending Organics always recommends that you seek the advice of your trusted health or medical professional for an accurate diagnosis of any medical condition.

References

Costa, B., Trovato, A. E., Comelli, F., Giagnoni, G., Colleoni, M., (2007), The non-psychoactive cannabis constituent cannabidiol is an orally effective therapeutic agent in rat chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain, European Journal of Pharmacology,[https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S001429990601257X], accessed 11/26/2021.

Vuckovic, S., Srebro, D., Savic Vujovic, K., Vucetic, C., Prostran, M., (2018), Cannabinoids and Pain: New Insights From Old Molecules, Frontiers in Pharmacology,https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2018.01259], accessed 11/26/2021.