More than ever, individuals are turning to CBD to help with arthritis. A recent poll by The Arthritis Foundation showed that over 80% of respondents had tried CBD to manage stiff or sore joints, and that the majority of these individuals continued to use CBD regularly to alleviate stiffness on an everyday basis. Similarly, another clinical survey has shown that over 60% of patients who have used CBD for joint relief found it effective, and “reported a reduction or cessation of other medications due to CBD use (60.5%).” 

Here at Proleve, customers with joint issues typically gravitate towards CBD topicals, gummies and oils to soothe joints and enhance mobility.

But you may be wondering: how exactly does CBD help arthritis, and what does science on the issue have to say about its efficacy? 

In this article, we answer all of your questions about CBD for arthritis, taking a look at the latest and most groundbreaking research to summarize the science behind CBD’s impact on stiff, sore, and inflamed joints. 

How Does CBD Help Arthritis? 

CBD is believed to help with arthritis by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that spreads throughout the body and brain, and CBD is said to bind with these receptors to regulate bodily processes such as pain, inflammation, and much more.

CBD and Inflammation: Soothing Stiff Joints

Arthritis is typically characterized by inflammation in the joints, tissues, and cartilage, which causes stiff and sore joints, while limiting overall mobility. In a study published in the European Journal of Pain, researchers applied CBD cream to joints affected by arthritis, and found that CBD topicals helped significantly. Researchers also found that unlike standard arthritis treatments, CBD topicals did not produce any undesirable side effects. 

This is why many Proleve customers with arthritis find using CBD topical lotions, creams, and salves helpful.

CBD & The Immune System: Stopping Inflammation at the Source

Inflammation is an immune system response, which is why CBD’s interaction with CB2 receptors on immune cells is key to its impact on arthritic joints. While all types of arthritis are characterized by inflammation, certain types of arthritis are caused by the immune system attacking healthy joint issues. CBD, however, is thought to modulate the immune system, which could curb this type of inflammation from escalating in the first place. According to studies, CBD regulates the immune system curbing the release of pro-inflammatory molecules. 

Pain Management

Inflammation in the joints is associated with pain, and often, those with arthritis experience soreness in the affected areas. A 2016 study demonstrated that in addition to managing arthritic inflammation, CBD topical creams helped to dull the pain caused by inflamed joints. 

Enhancing Joint Mobility

Due to pain and inflammation, people with arthritis typically experience limited joint mobility and stiffness in affected areas. However, CBD users report improved overall joint mobility, easing the types of stiffness commonly seen in arthritis.

Using CBD for Stiff or Sore Joints

Typically, customers who use CBD for arthritis report using an ingestible product--such as gummies or oils--together with a CBD cream, lotion, or salve that can be applied directly to the skin. While tinctures and gummies are ingested orally, and provide long-lasting effects to target the source of arthritis, topicals can be directly applied to stiff or sore joints for localized, fast-acting relief.

CBD Ingestibles for Arthritis: Tinctures & Gummies for Long-Lasting Relief 

Ingestible CBD products, such as tinctures or gummies, have a long half life, which makes them a great option for inviting relief from pain and stiffness.

Here at Proleve, we offer long-lasting CBD gummies and tinctures in various flavors, which are a convenient, low maintenance way to keep soreness and stiffness under control. 

CBD Topicals for Arthritis: On-the-Spot Relief, Wherever You Need It Most

Whereas long-lasting ingestibles such as gummies and tinctures work to soothe the underlying causes of joint stiffness, users of CBD topicals report they offer faster-acting, localized symptom reduction. 

This is why many customers turn to topicals for relief from stiffness, soreness, and swelling. Our salves, roll-ons, and lotions are applied directly to the skin, and offer relief within minutes. To use CBD lotions, simply rub the desired amount onto the problem area, and prepare to experience fast-acting ease.

Take Your Anti-Arthritis Routine to the Next Level: Consider Adding CBG for Joint Health

Some customers choose to take their joint health routine even further by adding Proleve’s CBG Gummies. CBG is a minor cannabinoid, and works in its own unique, slightly different way. By combining CBD with CBG, many customers report enhanced results from this more holistic, comprehensive approach to joint health and mobility.