CBD Oil for Back Pain: Can It Help?

For anyone who has dealt with the persistent throb of back pain, finding long-lasting relief can sometimes feel out of reach. The discomfort, occasionally dull and nagging, other times sharp and debilitating, can make even the simplest tasks difficult.

Many people are turning to CBD oil for pain relief. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural component of the hemp plant that's been extensively studied for its wide-ranging benefits, including supporting healthy inflammation and addressing discomfort [1].

The tricky thing is that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) hasn't approved hemp-derived CBD oil products to treat or mitigate pain because of the lack of in-depth clinical trials. However, that hasn't stopped many people from finding use of CBD oil and other hemp products to address chronic pain like back and nerve pain.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at how CBD oil for lower back pain might help, and the top recommended CBD oils out there people seem to have the best luck with.

We want to highlight that we're not saying that these products can completely eliminate your back pain, but they may complement other treatments and lifestyle changes that help with pain relief.

If you're suffering from back pain caused by a traumatic injury or nerve damage, you must discuss your options with a healthcare professional who can provide you with tailored advice and can make sure that CBD oil can be an appropriate option for you.

Does CBD Help Back Pain?

Although not FDA-approved for treating back pain, many treat pain with hemp-derived CBD products, such as high-potency CBD oils.

CBD is believed to alleviate pain by supporting endocannabinoid system function, which is involved in many physiological processes from mood, sleep, pain perception, and inflammation [2].

There are even some studies that have found CBD to work on vanilloid pain receptors, which adds another layer through which CBD may help to treat pain, but again, this isn't a clear-cut approach [3].

Addressing pain requires a multi-modal approach, including consultation with healthcare professionals and various lifestyle changes like exercise and reducing stress since pain is such a complex response.

With that said, we wanted to highlight various CBD products that many people enjoy using as part of a holistic approach to addressing discomfort.

The Best CBD Oil for Back Pain

1. Neurogan High Potency CBD Oil
2. FOCL CBD Drops
3. MedTerra CBD Isolate Oil
4. Cornbread CBD Oil
5. Lazarus Natural CBD Oil

Neurogan High Potency CBD Oil

One of the frustrating things we found in the CBD space is a lack of heavy duty CBD oils that some people may need to support persisting discomfort, and our 12,000 MG full spectrum CBD oil became our answer.

We use Autopilot hemp strain, grown on the West Coast, that's rich in natural terpenes such as caryophellene and myrcene, which have also been found to support healthy inflammation and complements the potential benefits of CBD [3].

Understanding that not everyone wants to use THC products in high potency CBD oils, we also created the THC-free broad spectrum CBD option, which still takes advantage of the hemps complimentary cannabinoids like CBN, CBG, and CBC alongside its terpenes for the entourage effect. These options deliver a CBD oil that's much more potent for those who need that extra support.

• Total CBD Content: 500 MG, 1000 MG, 2000 MG, 3000 MG, 4000 MG, 5000 MG, 8000, 12,000 MG
• Price: $30–$200
• Size: 1 oz (30 ml) | 2 oz (60 ml)
• Cost per mg CBD: $0.02-$0.05 (the strongest potency offers the best cost per mg price)
• Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD, Broad Spectrum CBD
• Carrier Oil: MCT Oil
• Flavoring: Unflavored CBD Oil, Citrus, Cinnamon

FOCL CBD Drops

While slightly on the pricier side, FOCL's 1000 mg and 3000 mg full spectrum CBD drops contain clean ingredients and are favored by many for back pain management.

Typically, those looking to use CBD oil for back pain want a potency that's stronger, which is why we'd lean towards the 3000 mg option over the 1000 mg bottle.

MedTerra CBD Isolate Oil

For those interested in a pure CBD experience, MedTerra's CBD Isolate Oil comes in strengths of 500mg, 1000mg, and 3000mg.

While it may lack the entourage effect of full spectrum products, its high concentration options are considered by some as effective for managing back pain.

Because this is a CBD isolate extract, you might notice that it doesn't feel as strong as full spectrum CBD or broad spectrum CBD, this is just something you should keep in mind when it comes to dosing your CBD oil, as 50 mg of CBD isolate will feel weaker than 50 mg of full spectrum.

• Total CBD Content: 500 MG, 1000 MG, 3000 MG
• Price: $39.99–$132.99
• Size: 1 oz (30 ml)
• Cost per mg CBD: $0.06
• Extract Type: CBD Isoalte Oil
• Carrier Oil: Organic MCT Oil
• Flavoring: Citrus

Cornbread CBD Oil

Cornbread CBD Oil has a unique approach when it comes to their hemp extraction. It uses whole hemp flower rather than using the whole plant (with the stems, leaves, and stalks), this creates a richer terpene profile.

With no flavor options, this product appeals to purists who appreciate hemp's natural taste. The 1500 mg strength, offering 50 mg of CBD and 2 mg THC per serving, is particularly popular for addressing chronic aches and pains.

• Total CBD Content: 375 MG, 750 MG, 1500 MG
• Price: $34.99 – $74.99
• Size: 1 oz (30 ml)
• Cost per mg CBD: $0.05- $0.09 (the strongest potency offers the best cost per mg price)
• Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD Oil
• Carrier Oil: MCT Oil
• Flavoring: Natural Hemp Flower

Lazarus Natural CBD Oil

Lazarus Naturals has a long-standing reputation as a trusted and affordable brand in the CBD space. And its organic, full spectrum CBD oil in the 6000 mg option is a favorite among users withchronic pain.

Although its concentration per serving isn't as high as the Neurogan 6000 mg option, high due to the larger bottle size (120 mL), it provides a cost-effective, longer-lasting supply for back pain management, maintaining its status as a trusted brand.

• Total CBD Content: 1500 MG, 6000 MG
• Price: $40 –$120
• Size: 1 oz (30 ml), 4 oz (120 ml)
• Cost per mg CBD: $0.05- $0.06 (the strongest potency offers the best cost per mg price)
• Extract Type: Full Spectrum CBD Oil, Broad Spectrum CBD Oil
• Carrier Oil: Organic MCT Oil
• Flavoring: Mango Pineapple, Strawberry Lemonade, Natural Classic (unflavored), Chocolate Mint

How We Score the Best Oils for Back Pain

Our expertise in producing top-rated CBD products since 2016 informs our decision to choose the top-rated CBD oils among many CBD brands out there.

This curated list reflects user experiences, formulations, company values, customer service, and the critical role of third-party testing in identifying the best CBD oils for back pain. While we recognize that there are no CBD products out there approved to treat or mitigate diseases, it's difficult to ignore the many customer testimonials associated with these products in helping to relieve pain.

When it comes to looking at what CBD oils will work for discomfort, we focus on these key aspects:

• Potency: We're looking for a heavy-duty CBD oil, delivering at least 45 mg of CBD per serving, to support the endocannabinoid system's role in healthy inflammation and pain perception. When a CBD oil content is too weak, it just might not provide the same level of benefits. However, it can be useful for other aspects of wellness, such as stress, relaxation, and general well-being.
• Quality of Hemp: Not all hemp plants are the same. Hemp is incredibly susceptive to its growing environment, which means hemp grown with poor nutrients or contaminated soil will reflect in the final product. The only way to check for its quality is to reference the product's third-party testing to ensure it's free from nasty chemicals, mold, and solvents.
• Brand Ethos: Brands prioritizing sustainability, ethical sourcing, and consumer education tend to stand out for us. A reputable brand understands the significance of making accurate and responsible claims about its products. They avoid making dangerous health claims that could mislead consumers about CBD. A strong brand reputation is built on honesty, transparency, and adherence to regulations, ensuring that they communicate the potential benefits of their products without overstepping scientific evidence or legal boundaries.
• Customer Reviews: Ultimately, the real test of a CBD oil's effectiveness comes from those who have used it for chronic pain management. Customer reviews and testimonials offer invaluable insights into a product's performance in real-world scenarios.

CBD Oil and Back Pain

CBD oil is not recognized as a cure for back pain or any other medical condition. However, many individuals find relief by incorporating it into their wellness routines. Let's take a closer look into why CBD oil might offer benefits and why some people consider it a supportive compound.

Stress Reduction for the Mind and Body

One of the notable aspects of CBD oil is its potential to reduce stress in both the mind and body. Chronic pain, including back pain, is not just a physical experience — it's often intertwined with psychological stress, creating a vicious cycle where pain exacerbates stress and vice versa.

CBD oil is thought to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates stress and mood. By promoting a more balanced state, CBD oil may help break this cycle, helping to foster a sense of calm and relaxation that could indirectly support the management of pain.

Supporting Healthy Inflammation

Inflammation is often present in many types of back pain, especially in conditions like degenerative disc disease or when injury is involved.

While research is ongoing, early studies suggest CBD may help reduce inflammation, offering a soothing effect that could relieve pain [2]. This potential makes CBD oil a compelling option for those seeking natural ways to support their body's response to inflammation alongside other recommended treatments.

Versatility of CBD Oil

The versatility of CBD oils — available in various potencies and formulations — allows users to tailor their use to their specific preferences, exploring different administration methods and dosages.

This personalized approach, coupled with the anecdotal evidence from a broad user base, highlights why many view CBD oil as a valuable component of their pain management strategy.

While CBD oil is not a panacea for back pain and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment, its potential as a supportive tool offers hope to many.

How to Use CBD Oil for Back Pain

The best way to use CBD oil for back pain involves starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it until you find relief. Most people recommend a higher potency of CBD oil to reach CBD's potential pain relieving properties, but if you're new to CBD, it's always best to work up to these doses, which is why CBD oils in dropper format are so convenient — you can adjust your dose drop by drop.

This could mean starting with a few milligrams twice a day. The goal is to gently introduce your body to CBD without overwhelming it, allowing you to monitor the effects and adjust accordingly.

Pay close attention to how your body responds to the initial doses. Some individuals might notice a slight improvement in their pain levels or overall sense of well-being, while others may not feel much difference.

This response can guide you in deciding when it's appropriate to increase the dosage.

How To Use CBD Oil for Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain, a common complaint among adults, often results from strain, tension, or injury. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may be acute or chronic.

Using CBD oil for lower back pain involves:

• Starting with a Low Dose: Begin with a small dose of CBD oil, gradually increasing until you find relief without side effects.
• Application Method: For localized lower back pain, consider using a CBD topical in addition to or instead of systemic forms like tinctures. Applying CBD directly to the affected area can provide targeted relief.
• Consistency: Consistency helps maintain a stable level of CBD in the endocannabinoid, which helps with the body's natural processes for addressing pain.

How To Use the Best CBD Oil for Spinal Stenosis

Spinal stenosis involves the narrowing of spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

Because this is a complex condition, it's important that you approach pain management with a healthcare professional, but there is promising research to show that CBD has helped to improve the pain scores of patients with spinal stenosis [4]. Here's how adding CBD oil might fit into a broader strategy for relief:

• Opt for Full Spectrum CBD Oil: Full spectrum CBD oil, which contains a range of cannabinoids and terpenes, might offer broader benefits due to the entourage effect.
• Consider Potency and Dosage Carefully: Given the chronic nature of spinal stenosis, starting with a moderate potency (25 mg+) might be a better place to start, with adjustments made based on your comfort levels.
• Method of Administration: A combination of ingestion and topical application could be advantageous. Oral ingestion of CBD oil can provide systemic relief, while topical application directly to areas of discomfort may offer localized relief. This dual approach can be tailored based on the areas most affected by spinal stenosis and the intensity of your discomfort.
• Lifestyle Adjustments and Rehabilitation: Incorporating CBD oil use with other management strategies, such as physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments will be a more holistic approach to dealing with spinal stenosis. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance on complementary therapies and interventions.

How To Use the Best CBD Oil for Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain persists for 12 weeks or longer, even after an initial injury or underlying cause of acute pain has been treated. Here's how CBD oil is often used when addressing chronic back pain:

• Personalized Dosage: Chronic back pain varies greatly among individuals, so finding your personalized dosage by starting low and going slow is key.
• Daily Routine: Adding CBD oil into your daily routine, either in the morning or evening, can help with ongoing discomfort. You can adjust the timing based on when your pain is most pronounced.
• Combination Approaches: Consider combining oral CBD oil with topicals to target any persistent aches.

How to Use the Best CBD Oil for Herniated Disc Pain

A herniated disc is when one of the rubbery cushions (discs) between the vertebrae of the spine ruptures or bulges out, causing nerve irritation, intense pain, and sometimes numbness or weakness in an arm or leg.

While CBD oil, gummies & other products have been explored for its potential to alleviate discomfort associated with a variety of pain conditions, including herniated disc pain, CBD alone isn't a fix for such a complex spinal issue.

Here’s how CBD oil might be used in conjunction with advice from a healthcare professional:

• High-Potency CBD: A higher potency may be beneficial for the acute pain associated with a herniated disc, providing significant relief. Though you may be temped to start with a high potency, always work your way up to 50 mg doses from 15-25 mg, especially if you're new to CBD.
• Method of Administration: Just like the other forms of back pain, you may want to consider adding other methods such as topical CBD products alongside ingestible forms to give yourself another layer of comfort.
• Lifestyle Adjustments and Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, exercise, lifestyle adjustments, and surgery may be recommended by your healthcare provider. CBD oil should be seen as only one component to a holistic care plan, and not the only answer.

FAQs on CBD for Back Pain

When is the best time of the day to take CBD oil for back pain?

The best time to take CBD oil for back pain varies from person to person, as it depends on the nature of your pain and your lifestyle. Some users find relief when they take CBD oil in the morning, others prefer to take it at night to help reduce pain that may interfere with sleep. 

What's the best way to use CBD oil for back pain?

The best way to use CBD oil for back pain is typically via sublingual administration. This involves placing a few drops of the oil under your tongue and holding it there for about 30 to 60 seconds before swallowing. This method allows the CBD to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes, leading to faster effects.

Can I take CBD oil for back pain along with my regular medication?

It's crucial to consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including CBD oil. While CBD is generally well-tolerated, it can interact with some medications, altering their efficacy.

How long does it take for CBD oil to work on back pain?

For CBD to work for back pain, the effect will tend to appear in 15-45 minutes. Topical application can have an even quicker impact on localized areas of pain. However, most people find that consistent use over a few weeks is often necessary to notice significant improvements.

Can CBD oil make my back pain worse?

While most people tolerate CBD oil well, everyone's body responds differently. Some people may experience side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or diarrhea. If you notice that your symptoms are getting worse after using CBD oil, you may be taking too much or using a poor-quality product.

Resources:

1. Rapin, L., Gamaoun, R., El Hage, C., Arboleda, M. F., & Prosk, E. (2021). Cannabidiol use and effectiveness: real-world evidence from a Canadian medical cannabis clinic. Journal of cannabis research, 3(1), 19.
2. Russo, E. B. (2008). Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain. Therapeutics and clinical risk management, 4(1), 245-259.
3. Costa, B., Giagnoni, G., Franke, C., Trovato, A. E., & Colleoni, M. (2004). Vanilloid TRPV1 receptor mediates the antihyperalgesic effect of the nonpsychoactive cannabinoid, cannabidiol, in a rat model of acute inflammation. British journal of pharmacology, 143(2), 247-250.