With the frequent changes in modern medicine and more individuals seeking alternative methods for treatment, cannabis and by-design, CBD, has been a catalyst for many physical and mental afflictions.  THC-infused products and medical marijuana have already become a massive part of the alternative medicine culture, but what about the role of CBD?  As the compound surges in popularity, you might have come across several companies making outlandish claims that CBD can treat XYZ ailment.  How true is that though?

Using the backing of scientific evidence, we are out to figure out exactly what CBD can be used for; and one such condition is Bursitis.  This condition is known to cause inflammation on the bursae, which is the area that protects your bones, specifically near your joints.  Acting as a fluid-filled cushion, when the bursa is inflamed, it can be very painful and cause severe discomfort throughout the day.

understanding bursitis

Let's face it, we use our joints constantly and the overuse of anything can be a silent killer over time.  As mentioned above, Bursitis is a condition in which inflammation of the bursae causes immense, and often, debilitating pain.  Currently, there are four distinct types of Bursitis:

• Shoulder Bursitis (Rotator Cuff Tendonitis or Impingement Syndrome):Recognized as the most common of the four types, Shoulder Bursitis is caused by the range of motion in the shoulder to become exacerbated.

• Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis):Hip Bursitis is most commonly experienced as an aching pain that can be exacerbated by sleeping on the affected area of pain.
• Elbow Bursitis (Olecranon Bursitis):Elbow Bursitis is triggered through the over-extension and pressure on your elbows.  It is most commonly caused by rough sports play.
• Knee Bursitis (Prepatellar Bursitis):Knee Bursitis is caused by those who put pressure on the kneecap; making runners an easy target for the condition.

Studies show the causes and severity of Bursitis can vary and can affect a large demographic.  There are some preventive actions that can be taken to effectively manage the intensity of such pain and inflammation.  Such action include, but are not limited to: medication, draining the bursa, steroidal injections, surgical intervention, and given the solutions of each, the incorporation of cannabidiol.

CBD's effectiveness in managing bursitis - anti-inflammation

By design, CBD's chemical properties include that of an anti-inflammatory agent that may be beneficial on targeted pain issues, which does include Bursitis.  According to a 2016 study in which researchers analyzed CBD's ability to inhibit the spread of inflammation and pain-related behaviors through the consistent dosing of transdermal CBD.  Despite the study largely focusing on Arthritic pain, the same results can be bridged to apply to Bursitis-induced pain and inflammation.  The results of the study conclude that dose-dependent treatment of CBD leads to a significant reduction of inflammation, thus lowering the intensity of discomfort experienced.  The efficacy of relying on a CBD-alternative to an anti-inflammatory drug is in its relatively mild set of side effects.

The direct, traditional medical approach to anti-inflammation occurs in that of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), which are anti-inflammatory drugs.  The side effects of an NSAID typically include over-stressing the renal system and potentially opening up problems in that area in the later stages of life.

cbd's effectiveness in managing bursitis - pain management

Pain and stiffness around the hip and joint area is another major symptom of Bursitis.  Following CBD's analgesic properties as an efficient pain reliever, incorporating the compound in the form of an oil may prove to be effective way to manage pain.  According to a 2008 study in which recent research on cannabinoid analgesia via the endocannabinoid system and non-receptor mechanisms was measured against common ailments, CBD was shown to possess a significantly high amount of analgesic properties that would otherwise effectively manage pain.

The direct, traditional medical approach to analgesic properties occurs in both over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen, as well as prescription-grade medication such as Cox-2 inhibitors.  Similar to the side effects presented with NSAIDs, consuming these chronically spell disaster for a series of serious health problems; paving the way for a continued, vested interest in CBD's efficacy in doing the same with the least amount of harm generated.

cbd's effectiveness in managing bursitis - inducing sleep

The pain and discomfort often experienced from those that suffer from Hip Bursitis facilitates an increased difficulty in sleeping.  CBD possesses incredible sleep-inducing properties that will not only dull out pain and inflammation, but can return the body to a regular sleeping schedule, further encouraging the process of healing through rest.  In a 2019 study in which CBD was analyzed to encourage better sleep, the compound reacts to both our CB1 and 5-HT1A receptors, eliciting anxiolytic effects on the body.  Tying this back to using sleep to induce the body's healing process against Hip Bursitis, the ability to rest without exacerbating pain on the affected area speaks dividends to overall management of the condition.

There are several other treatment options for inducing sleep, such as over-the-counter and prescription drugs such as Ambien.  While most of these traditional medicines are effective, the running theme with using them points more towards the adverse side effects that ultimately makes or breaks the treatment experience.

the bottom line

Bursitis definitely puts its patients in an uncomfortable position.  Between living life to the fullest and dealing with constant, and often, excruciating pain, this game of balance can be achieved through a series of treatment options provided by your physician.  In addition to existing treatment plans, consider incorporating CBD into the mix as this natural alternative to inflammation and pain management may show improvements.  Check out our products and consult with your medical team if CBD is right for you.