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Cannabidiol (CBD) is one compound in the cannabis plant. Some research suggests that the compound may have an anti-inflammatory effect, which could make CBD useful for joint pain.
Many people consider CBD products to ease joint pain. This is because CBD can have
Read on to learn more about CBD products, which ones might help alleviate joint pain, and what alternative joint pain treatments are available.
Is CBD legal?The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC federally legal. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the FDA has not approved nonprescription CBD products, and some products may be inaccurately labeled.
- Best CBD cream: CBDfx Muscle and Joint Cream: Cooling Formula | Skip to Review
- Best CBD roll-on: +Plus CBD Roll-On | Skip to Review
- Best CBD gummies: cbdMD Tropical CBD Gummies | Skip to Review
- Best CBD oil: Nuleaf Naturals Full-Spectrum Hemp CBD Oil | Skip to Review
- Best CBD tincture: CBDistillery Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture | Skip to Review
- Best CBD sports cream: Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream | Skip to Review
- Best CBD salve: FABCBD Body Salve | Skip to Review
- Best CBD capsules: Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Liquid Capsules | Skip to Review
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| CBD | A compound within the C. sativa plant that does not create the high sensation individuals commonly associate with cannabis use. |
| THC | A compound in the C. sativa plant. It is the psychoactive compound that creates the high sensation from cannabis use. |
| Full spectrum | A full-spectrum product will contain all of the natural compounds in the cannabis plant, including THC. However, THC levels must be no more than 0.3% to comply with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation on full-spectrum CBD products. |
| Broad spectrum | Broad-spectrum products contain natural compounds of the cannabis plant. However, while manufacturers remove all or most of the THC in broad-spectrum CBD, it may still be present in trace amounts. |
| CBD isolate | This is the purest form of CBD and should contain 0% THC. |
| Cannabinoids | The compounds within the cannabis plant, of which there are |
| Terpenes | Another compound of the C. sativa plant, terpenes typically give plants their specific aromas. Some terpenes, such as limonene, may have specific health benefits. |
| Certificate of analysis (COA) | Reputable manufacturers of CBD products should ensure a COA is available for inspection. A COA provides information on the third-party testing that independent labs conduct on a particular product. Sometimes, products will have a scannable smartphone code that directs people to the COA online. |
Medical News Today’s methodology
Medical News Today chooses CBD products that meet the following criteria:
- Ingredients: MNT chooses products containing safe and high quality, clearly labeled ingredients. They should also confirm they are free from pesticides, heavy metals, and mold.
- Dosage: MNT chooses products that must clearly state the CBD dosage and THC content.
- Serving size: MNT selects products in which manufacturers recommend a dosage and how to take it.
- Third-party labs: MNT chooses products that undergo third-party testing for contaminants by an ISO 17025-compliant laboratory.
- Available certificate of analysis: MNT chooses companies that demonstrate transparency and share a product’s certificate of analysis (COA) after receiving its third-party lab results.
CBD will not treat the underlying cause of a person’s pain. However, it may help numb or alleviate pain. A person should not rely on CBD to treat their pain. They should consider seeing a medical professional who can assess the cause of their joint pain.
Below are some third-party tested CBD products that a person may wish to try for joint pain.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Best CBD cream: CBDfx CBD Muscle and Joint Cream: Cooling Formula
- Type of CBD: broad-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: available in strengths of 1,000 and 3,000 mg of CBD per 50-milliliter (ml) bottle
- Price: $79.99–129.99
This broad-spectrum cream contains menthol to provide a cooling effect for sore muscles and joints. It also contains white willow bark and caffeine, which may reduce inflammation.
The product is suitable for vegans, and the company grows its hemp in the United States.
People can find the COA for this product online.
A person can choose between two strengths: 1,000 or 3,000 mg. All bottles contain 50 milliliters of cream.
The product is best for those who like to control the amount of the product they use and who want fast-acting targeted relief for their joint pain. It is also suitable for people who do not want to ingest CBD.
Learn more about the CBDfx brand.
Use code “MNT20″ for 20% off.
Pros
- the product is vegan and may reduce inflammation
- it is easy to apply
- it provides a cooling sensation
- it offers targeted pain relief
Cons
- some customers note that the symptom relief is brief
- it may be difficult to accurately measure doses with a roll-on product
- people may have to reapply up to four times a day for the best effect
Best CBD roll-on: +Plus CBD Roll-On
- Type of CBD: full-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: available in strengths of 200 mg or 500 mg of CBD per 1.13 ounce (oz) bottle
- Price: $27.99–54.99 for a one-time purchase, with discounts available for subscriptions
This product is available in two strengths, each containing 200 mg or 500 mg of CBD per 1 oz bottle. The roll-on allows a person to apply topical CBD directly to painful joints.
In addition to full-spectrum CBD, the product contains other plant compounds that may help alleviate joint pain. These include:
The product is best for those who want fast-acting targeted relief for joint pain without ingesting CBD.
People can find the COA for this product online.
Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.
Pros
- people can apply the product directly to areas of pain
- some may prefer to use topical CBD over ingesting it
- includes a range of potentially pain-relieving ingredients
Cons
- with a roll-on, determining the correct CBD dosage can be difficult
- likely to be unsuitable for broken or irritated skin
- may be too strong for sensitive skin
Best CBD gummies: cbdMD Tropical CBD Gummies
- Type of CBD: broad-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: available in strengths of 50, 100, and 200 mg of CBD per gummy
- Price: $89.99–189.99 for a one-time purchase, with discounts available for subscriptions
CBD gummies are a simple way to consume CBD. In this CBD product, each gummy provides 10 mg of CBD, and the company states they do not contain THC.
The product is available in the following product sizes and CBD strengths:
- 1,500 mg, containing 50 mg of CBD per gummy
- 3,000 mg, containing 100 mg per gummy
- 6,000 mg, containing 200 mg per gummy
According to the company, the gummies are vegan, gluten-free, and contain natural flavors like orange, strawberry, raspberry, and tropical fruit.
People can find the COA for this product online.
These CBD gummies are best for those who want fast-acting relief from an oral product with a unique flavor.
Learn more about the cbdMD brand.
Pros
- some customers say that these gummies ease arthritis and back pain
- they are reportedly fast to act
- there is a range of strengths available
- they are vegan and gluten-free
Cons
- some buyers did not find the gummies effective for pain
- only the 50 mg option is NSF Certified for Sport
- the 6000 mg gummies may have a bitter taste
Best CBD oil: Nuleaf Naturals Full-Spectrum Hemp CBD oil
- Type of CBD: full-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: 30 milligrams (mg) of CBD per serving
- Price: $19–249, for a one-time purchase, with discounts available for subscriptions
This product delivers 30 mg of full-spectrum CBD in each serving. The only other ingredient is organic virgin hemp seed oil.
This CBD oil is best for people who want the fast-acting relief of an oral product that is also pure and natural. However, some people may not like the flavor of hemp.
NuLeaf offers a 60-day guarantee.
The bottle is available in various sizes, containing 10, 30, 60, 100, or 200 servings.
People can find the COA for this product online.
Pros
- some found it effective for joint pain relief
- uses organic hemp
- uses CO2 extraction
- smaller volumes are affordable
Cons
- some people may dislike the hemp flavor
- larger volumes are very expensive
- full-spectrum CBD can produce positive drug test results
Best CBD tincture: CBDistillery Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture
- Type of CBD: full-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: 17 mg of CBD per serving
- Price: $35–240 for a one-time purchase, with discounts available for subscriptions
This oil tincture contains 500 mg of CBD and delivers 17 mg per serving. The company claims that the CBD derives from hemp flowers, stalks, and stems. It states that its CBD does not derive from hemp seeds, as the seeds are not a legitimate source of CBD.
As a full-spectrum product, this tincture contains all the compounds found in cannabis, including THC at levels lower than 0.3%.
The product also contains fractionated medium-chain triglyceride coconut oil.
The product is third-party tested for quality and consistent dosing. It contains U.S. Hemp Authority-certified non-genetically modified (non-GMO) industrial hemp grown in the United States of America (USA).
People can find the COAs for this product online.
The tincture is best for people who want fast-acting relief from a high-potency oral product. Some people who use this product claim they like the taste.
Learn more about the CBDistillery brand.
Use code “MNT20” for 20% off.
Pros
- uses U.S. Hemp Authority-certified hemp
- the higher dose may provide faster or stronger effects
- simple to take
Cons
- higher volumes are very expensive
- it contains fat
- unsuitable for people with a coconut allergy
Best CBD sports cream: Joy Organics CBD Sports Cream
- Type of CBD: broad-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: 1,000 mg of CBD per 4 fluid ounce (fl oz) bottle.
- Price: $49.95 for a one-time purchase and $39.96 with a subscription
Each pump bottle of this cream contains 1,000 mg of CBD. It also contains menthol and camphor, which aim to relieve aches and pains associated with minor sports injuries.
People can find the COA for this product online.
The product is best for athletes who want targeted relief from joint pain while being able to control the amount of product they apply.
People who purchase the product via a subscription can choose from delivery intervals of 2, 4, 6, 8, or 12 weeks.
Learn more about the Joy Organics brand.
Use code “healthcbd” for 20% off.
Pros
- some customers report relief from aches and pains
- Joy Organics offers a 90-day trial with full refunds for returns in this period
- more affordable than some topical CBD products
Cons
- some customers find the fragrance overwhelming
- may be difficult to measure the dose
- one strength available
Best CBD salve: FABCBD Body Salve
- Type of CBD: full-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: 1,000 mg of CBD per 1 oz tube, or 3,000 mg of CBD per 2.5 oz tube
- Price: $79–159 for a one-time purchase, with discounts available for subscriptions
FABCBD Body Salve comes in a roll-on bottle. The product is available in strengths of 1,000 mg and 3,000 mg of CBD per tube. Other ingredients include organic beeswax, menthol, and camphor essential oils to help relieve aches and pains.
People can find this product’s COA online.
This CBD salve is best for those who want targeted relief for their joint and muscle pain from a product that offers heating and cooling effects. The company recommends this product to active people and those who type regularly for work.
The company offers a subscription discount of up to 20% with deliveries every 2–10 weeks.
Pros
- some customers say that the product helps loosen stiff muscles
- it is easy to apply
- it can provide targeted pain relief
- contains a range of organic and natural ingredients
Cons
- some customers say that some of the product remains in the bottle, resulting in product wastage
- it may be difficult to measure the dose
- unsuitable for vegans due to the beeswax content
- contains sunflower oil, which is an allergen for some people
Best CBD capsules: Charlotte’s Web CBD Oil Liquid Capsules
- Type of CBD: full-spectrum CBD
- CBD strength: 25 mg of CBD per capsule
- Price: $74.99–119.99 for a one-time purchase
The product is available in bottles of 30 or 60 capsules. Each capsule contains 25 mg of CBD and organic extra virgin olive oil.
The company claims that these capsules can promote recovery from exercise-induced inflammation.
Charlotte’s Web liquid CBD capsules are suitable for vegans. The company states that the product is also gluten-free, allergen-free, and kosher.
People can find the COA for this product online.
These CBD capsules may suit people who want fast-acting relief from post-exercise inflammation.
Learn more about the Charlotte’s Web brand.
Pros
- the product is suitable for anyone with a coconut allergy or sensitivity
- gluten-free and vegan
- uses CO2 extraction
Cons
- some customers report that the capsules can leak and feel sticky
- unsuitable for people who find swallowing tablets difficult
- full-spectrum CBD can produce positive drug test results
The following table compares the above CBD products for type, strength, and price.
| Product | CBD type | Topical or oral | CBD strength | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBDFx cream | broad-spectrum | topical | 500–3,000 mg per bottle | $79.99–129.99 |
| +Plus CBD roll-on | full-spectrum | topical | 200–500 mg per bottle | $27.99–54.99 |
| cbdMD gummies | broad-spectrum | oral | 50 or 100 mg per serving | $89.99–189.99 |
| Nuleaf Naturals oil | full-spectrum | oral | 30 mg per serving | $19–249 |
| CBDistillery tincture | full-spectrum | oral | 17 mg per serving | $35–240 |
| Joy Organics cream | broad-spectrum | topical | 1,000 mg per bottle | $49.95 |
| FABCBD salve | full-spectrum | topical | 1,000–3,000 mg per tube | $79–159 |
| Charlotte’s Web capsules | full-spectrum | oral | 25 mg per serving | $74.99–169.99 |
Below are some potential advantages and disadvantages of using CBD.
Pros
- CBD can potentially treat a variety of conditions.
- Most people can tolerate CBD well.
- Research has shown CBD can be effective for pain reduction.
- CBD may have numerous additional health benefits.
- Both oral and topical CBD products are available.
Cons
- There is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of CBD products, except Epidiolex for certain seizures.
- People may experience side effects.
- CBD may interact with certain medications.
- Some people may find that CBD tastes unpleasant.
- CBD products may be costly.
- Research into the safety and effectiveness of CBD is still ongoing.
Both oral and topical CBD may be useful for pain management, and the delivery method may come down to personal preference. Topical CBD, such as CBD cream, passes directly into the skin, whereas oral CBD, such as a spray or gummies, mainly passes through the digestive system and into the body.
A person should always follow the usage instructions on the product label, as each product will vary. They should also stop using the product if they experience side effects.
A person should talk with a doctor before using CBD to reduce the risk of possible drug interactions.
Early research supports the idea that CBD may help with joint pain in some cases, such as joint pain due to inflammatory arthritis. Below, we look at some recent research in detail.
A
They found that RASFs promoted joint inflammation because they release inflammatory proteins. CBD reduced the amount of RASF cells and how much they divided, thereby reducing inflammation. The research also suggests CBD can specifically target RASF cells when inflammation occurs.
Older
A 2022 study also found that CBD may reduce pain and improve physical function and sleep quality in people with arthritis. The authors used a questionnaire to assess how effective individuals thought CBD was for their arthritis symptoms. The results showed that, out of the 428 participants:
- 83% said CBD improved their pain
- 66% said CBD improved their physical functioning
- 66% said CBD improved their sleep quality
Additionally, a 2018 review article found that cannabinoids, such as CBD, show promise for chronic pain management and that most people tolerate them well.
While this provides early evidence to support using CBD for joint pain, further high quality evidence in humans can help support the claim.
Anecdotal evidence supports the idea that CBD may help with markers of joint pain. A recent poll from The Arthritis Foundation asked over 2,600 people with arthritis about their experience using CBD.
According to the poll, 94% of those who use CBD say they use it to relieve pain. Additionally, 67% of the participants reported improved overall physical functioning from taking CBD.
Learn more about CBD and arthritis pain.
For more information and resources on CBD and CBD products, please visit our dedicated hub.
Most people tolerate CBD well at the correct dosage. However,
- drowsiness
- lightheadedness
- digestive upset
- diarrhea
- changes in appetite
People sensitive to CBD or taking a higher dose than necessary may experience more significant side effects.
Some people may also have an allergic reaction to the compound or product. Anyone noticing undesirable effects after taking CBD should stop using it and talk with a doctor.
Additionally, it is possible to test positive for THC after using full- and broad-spectrum CBD. People who regularly take urine or drug tests should opt for CBD without THC.
People should also be aware of potential drug interactions with CBD. A
- immunosuppressants
- antidepressants
- statins
- calcium channel blockers
- benzodiazepines
- opioids
- antipsychotics
- protease inhibitors
- proton pump inhibitors
- anticoagulants, such as warfarin
Always speak with a doctor before taking CBD to check for any interactions.
The federal government does not regulate natural products such as CBD. This means there are no standards regarding dosing, label accuracy, or potential contamination.
Therefore, people must ensure that their product has undergone third-party lab testing. These lab results will state the amount of CBD in the products and levels of any potential contaminants.
People should also be aware of any potentially misleading information on the labels of CBD products.
If a person is on prescription medication or has a medical condition, they should speak with a doctor before purchasing CBD products.
A person’s location within the United States may also determine whether they can use CBD products. Some states have restrictions on CBD products.
People should try a lower dosage of CBD when they begin using a CBD product. They can gradually increase the dosage if they find the product works for them.
People should consider the following factors when shopping for a CBD product:
- Form: People should consider what form they want to take CBD in. Some CBD products are available in topical forms for external use, oil to drop under their tongue, or as gummies to eat.
- Types: The three types of CBD are isolate, full-spectrum, and broad-spectrum. Some people may prefer CBD isolate, as it contains no THC. However, full-spectrum may have more potent effects.
- Third-party testing: A person should purchase CBD products from a company that uses third-party testing. The company should also publically display the COA.
- Dosage: Companies should always state the CBD dose within the product. They should also clearly list all other ingredients.
The standard approach for treating joint pain involves drug therapy, including opioids and over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen (Advil) to help reduce inflammation and pain.
Several natural products on the market may help with markers of inflammation and pain in some people, such as:
However, scientific research is limited regarding the benefits of many natural remedies. A person should always speak with a doctor before trying alternative treatments for joint pain.
A person should speak with a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- joint stiffness
- joint swelling
- joint pain or tenderness
- warmth or redness of the skin surrounding the joint
A doctor can run tests to determine the cause of the symptoms and can provide an appropriate treatment plan.
A person should always consult a healthcare professional before trying CBD products to treat any medical issue. Some supplements can aggravate underlying health conditions or interact with other medications or supplements a person is taking.
Below are some of the most common questions and answers about CBD for joint pain.
How long does it take for CBD oil to work for joint pain?
The Arthritis Foundation states that if a person ingests CBD oil by dropping some under their tongue, the effects may occur within 15–45 minutes.
The time it takes for CBD creams to work varies between individuals. For some, relief can be immediate. However, for some people, it may take up to an hour to feel any effects.
Is CBD oil or cream better for joint pain?
Creams may be best for targeted joint pain relief. However, an oral oil may be more suitable if a person would like more all-over relief. Additionally, CBD creams may contain other ingredients that could irritate the skin, so they may not be suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Is CBD good for inflammation?
An
Is CBD good for joint pain?
CBD can be an effective treatment for joint pain, although scientific research into this use is limited. Some studies have shown that CBD can reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
A person should always speak with a doctor before trying CBD for a medical condition.
What strength of CBD oil is best for joint pain?
CBD oils come in strengths from as little as 10 mg per serving to more potent doses of 250 mg per serving. The FDA does not regulate CBD as a treatment for health conditions, so there are no set guidelines on appropriate dosages.
A person should always speak with a doctor before using CBD for the first time and start at a low dose. They may then increase the dosage slowly until they get their desired effect.
Learn more about CBD oil for pain management.
Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain?
CBD
CBD may help with joint pain, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects and benefits. Anecdotal reports suggest that many people use CBD products for joint pain, and some find relief.
It is essential to choose products that have undergone third-party testing, check the labels carefully, and take CBD as the manufacturer directs.
People should always consult a doctor before trying CBD to treat joint pain.