CBD For Ankylosing Spondylitis-CBD Use For Inflammatory Arthritis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that mostly affects the spine. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that tackle ankylosing spondylitis. This blog discusses the meaning of ankylosing spondylitis, CBD and ankylosing spondylitis relief, how to use CBD for ankylosing spondylitis, and tips for using CBD for ankylosing spondylitis relief.

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the over one hundred chemical compounds(cannabinoids) in the cannabis plant. This compound is mostly derived from the hemp plant since it is rich in CBD and low on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Unlike its famous cousin, THC, CBD is non-psychotropic. It has gained traction in the health and wellness industry for all good reasons. CBD has numerous properties, providing the body with numerous benefits, such as relieving anxiety, reducing pain and inflammation,and improving sleep. CBD is infused into multiple products, including but not limited to oils, tinctures, edibles, and vapes.

An Overview Of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Van der Linden et al. (2022) noted that ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that mostly affects the spine. Left untreated may lead to spinal flexibility loss and a distinct hunched position. It may affect the rib cage, causing breathing problems. This condition mostly affects men more than ladies. Rumiancteva et al. (2021) stated that some symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis include inflammation, pain, fatigue, and stiffness in various body parts, such as the hips and lower back. It also affects other regions where the ligaments and tendons are bound to the bones. However, various treatments have been proven to help manage its symptoms.

CBD And Ankylosing Spondylitis Relief

CBD products have been proven to be an effective alternative treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. One of the major symptoms of AS is chronic pain and inflammation. Costiniuk et al. (2020) suggested that CBD is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, and it helps reduce pain and inflammation linked to the condition.

Cannabidiol possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and as a result of its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, it inhibits cell proliferation. Causing the production and division of cells are responsible for excessive no-tissue build-up. CBD suppresses the release of cytokine. Cytokine is the hormone responsible for immune response. Excessive production of cytokine causes a response to the inflamed region.

CBD also increases the production of the T-regulatory cells hence tackling the negative results of an affected immune system.

Ankylosing spondylitis starts at the cellular level. Hence the reason CBD is most helpful. CBD soothes the immune response and, as a result, reduces pain and inflammation linked to AS.

The body consists of a complex signaling system known as the endocannabinoid system. It is responsible for various body functions, such as regulating pain and inflammation. It is made up of specific cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2, and the former is found in the brain, while the latter at the peripheral system. Since the ECS heals inflamed tissue, its interaction with CBD reduces pain and inflammation.

CBD's anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative qualities help alleviate chronic pain. CBD interactions with the CB1 receptor help reduce pain since it blocks pain signals from reaching the brain. Since CBD is an agonist, its interaction with the CB2 receptors results in less pain and inflammation experienced since it is anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties affect individual pain perception.

Hendricks et al. (2019) commented that CBD helps improve inflammation linked to ankylosing spondylitis by improving sleep quantity and quality. Inadequate sleep results in pain. Proper sleep improves pain management efficacy and also the mood responsible for improving pain perception.

How To Use Cannabidiol for Ankylosing Spondylitis

There are various ways to use CBD for ankylosing spondylitis. They include:

Smoking

Smoking CBD requires a pipe, cigarette, or other inhalation product. Ambrose et al. (2019) showed that smoking CBD might be dangerous since it increases the chances of developing cancer, especially lung cancer. Learn more about can cbd help in heat disease treatment?

Vaping

Vaping CBD requires a vaping device such as a vape pen and CBD e-juice. This method involves vaporizing CBD so that an individual can inhale it. Vaping is like smoking. However, it is a safer and healthier option. Its long-term effects are still unfamiliar to experts since it is new in the industry.

Edibles

Individuals who dislike the grassy and earthy taste prefer taking it through edibles. It involves various formulations such as sweets, gummies, CBD-infused drinks, and foods. CBD edibles do not cause any high effects since they contain insignificant amounts of THC. However, if you want long-lasting effects, you should choose CBD edibles.

Tips For Using CBD for Ankylosing Spondylitis

No scientific evidence has confirmed whether CBD is safe for ankylosing spondylitis. So, if you want to try it, proceed with much caution. You may incur some risks. Learn more about how does cbd affect exercise?

Below are tips that make trying CBD safer:

Seeking Medical Advice

Before using CBD for ankylosing spondylitis, it is important to talk to a medical professional who is fully aware of medical CBD. They help you decide the safest and best way to use it. Learn more about is cbd beneficial for athletes?

Avoid Combining CBD And Medications.

It is prohibited to use CBD while under any other medications. Its interaction with these drugs may elevate some side effects, such as changes in appetite and weight, dry mouth, nausea,and fatigue. Talking to a medical doctor about any other prescription drugs would be safer.

Choose a Safer Method.

Various CBD methods offer varying risks. Most individuals prefer taking edibles to smoking and vaping since it's safer. Vaping and smoking may increase the chances of lung cancer. However, it is vital to note that, with edibles, there is a possibility of food poisoning.

Titration

Regarding dosage, the best and most efficient way is to begin slow and low. The trial-and-error method helps an individual find the right dosage. You may gradually work up if you do not find your desired relief.

Bottom Line

Since long ago, CBD and other cannabinoids have been an effective treatment for chronic pain. However, insufficient scientific evidence proves CBD is an effective treatment for ankylosing spondylitis. Various AS patients have reported experiencing positive effects after CBD use. A point worth noting is anecdotal evidence is unreliable. So, if you want to use CBD for AS, proceed with caution.

Talking to a doctor highly helps. There are various ways to use CBD for AS, such as; smoking, vaping, and through edibles. It is best to start with a lower amount and gradually increase the dosage.

References

Costiniuk, C. T., & Jenabian, M. A. (2020). Acute inflammation and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection: Cannabidiol as a potential anti-inflammatory treatment? Cytokine & growth factor reviews, 53, 63.

Hendricks, O., Andersen, T. E., Christiansen, A. A., Primdahl, J., Hauge, E. M., Ellingsen, T., ... & Petersen, K. H. (2019). Efficacy and safety of cannabidiol followed by an open-label add-on of tetrahydrocannabinol for treatingchronic pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis: protocol for a multicentre, randomized, placebo-controlled study. BMJ open, 9(6), e028197.

Rumiantceva, D. G., Urumova, M. M., & Erdes, S. F. (2021). A new coronavirus infection, COVID-19, triggers the development of symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Case report. Terapevticheskii arkhiv, 93(5), 609-612.

Van der Linden, S., Van Tubergen, A., & Hidding, A. (2002). Physiotherapy in ankylosing spondylitis: what is the evidence? Clinical and experimental rheumatology, 20(6; SUPP/28), S60-S.