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Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient in cannabis. However, it is not the compound that creates the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. Research into the benefits of CBD for back spasms is limited, although many CBD products are available, which supporters claim can relieve back pain and soreness.
This article discusses the research around using CBD for back spasms, product options to consider, and alternative remedies.
Is CBD legal? Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are legal federally but still illegal under some state laws. Cannabis-derived CBD products, on the other hand, are illegal federally but legal under some state laws. Check local legislation, especially when traveling. Also, keep in mind that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved nonprescription CBD products, which may be inaccurately labeled.
Back spasms are painful, uncontrollable, and frequently sudden contractions of the back muscles.
There is widespread interest in finding nonaddictive and safe treatments to relieve back spasms. Although there is no conclusive evidence that CBD can cure this health issue, research indicates potential benefits.
Learn more about the potential benefits of CBD here.
One of the concerns some experts have about using CBD for back spasms and pain management is that some products may not contain as much CBD as companies claim, or that they may carry harmful ingredients. Therefore, people need to exercise caution when taking them.
No CBD products are proven to treat back spasms specifically, although many supporters claim they offer pain-relieving benefits.
People may experience greater back spasm relief with topical CBD products, such as oils, creams, balms, and lotions. Individuals can rub these gently into the affected area as they would a moisturizer.
Below is a list of CBD products that may help those with back spasms.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.
CBDfx Muscle & Joint – Cooling Formula
This topical product is available in three CBD potencies: 500 milligrams (mg), 1,000 mg, or 3,000 mg. This cream contains menthol, white willow bark, and caffeine.
CBDfx says this product may help relieve muscle aches and joint pain. Users can rub a small amount of the cream into the affected area.
The company uses organic hemp and states that its products are cruelty-free, solvent-free, and made in the United States. Products include a traceable QR code that people can scan to check the lab reports.
CBDfx states that its CO2 extraction process produces potent and high-quality CBD. CBDfx also sells edibles, tinctures, creams, and topicals, with several other products for specific use as pain relievers.
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CBDistillery CBD Warming Cream
CBDistillery states that people can use this topical cream for targeted pain relief. It contains camphor for its warming properties and does not leave a lasting fragrance. It is gluten-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free.
This company’s products use non-genetically-modified industrial hemp. It also sells CBD oils, soft gels, gummies, topical lotions, and powders.
CBDistillery products undergo testing by a third party for quality and consistency. People can review the test results online or by scanning the QR code on the product.
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MedTerra Pain Relief Cream
This product is a registered over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for joint pain. MedTerra also claims it is suitable for relieving sore backs and stiff necks. It is available in 500 mg or 1,000 mg strengths.
Ingredients include menthol, arnica, jojoba oil, and aloe vera. Users apply a small amount of the cream topically to affected areas.
This company’s CBD comes from industrial hemp using CO2 instead of solvents. MedTerra says it grows and extracts hemp under the Kentucky Department of Agricultural Industrial Hemp Pilot Program guidelines.
The company’s products undergo third-party testing for heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria, mycotoxins, and microbes, the results of which are available on MedTerra’s website. The company also has certification with the U.S. Hemp Authority.
Other MedTerra products include gummies, tinctures, and capsules.
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NuLeaf Naturals CBD Balm
This balm contains just two ingredients: shea butter and full spectrum hemp extract. NuLeaf Naturals claims this balm can help relieve discomfort after topical use.
The company uses independent labs to certify that its products contain an appropriate amount of CBD and are free from pesticides, herbicides, and other contaminants. Customers can scan their product’s QR code to check the results of a product’s third-party lab tests.
NuLeaf Naturals also sells CBD oils, soft gels, topicals, and products designed for pets. The company’s products contain whole plant CBD extract from organic hemp.
PlusCBD Plus Softgel Capsules
PlusCBD claims that people can take these full-spectrum soft gels orally to manage back spasms. The company recommends individuals who are new to full-strength CBD products start with a lower dose and gradually increase the amount.
All of the brand’s products comprise hemp and undergo testing from independent labs.
The company says its sprays, balms, roll-ons, and gels can be helpful for athletes and people with aches and pains, as well as for skin. Their PlusCBD Oil Gold Formula is its most concentrated CBD oil.
Common approaches to managing back spasms include:
- stretching the affected area
- massaging the affected area
- gentle exercise, including walking and yoga
- applying ice packs or heating the affected area with a heating pad or hot bath
- using OTC nonsteroidal painkillers, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen
- taking supplements such as vitamin B-12
People who find that their back spasms interfere with their daily lives can see a doctor for treatment. Individuals should also see a healthcare professional if they:
- experience any swelling or numbness
- notice unusual changes in their skin
- notice fluid abnormalities, such as excessive water retention
- experience disturbed sleep because of back spasms
A doctor can also offer advice on CBD products or alternative remedies for relieving pain or treating any underlying conditions.
Although back spasms are a common and frequently debilitating health problem, many people find relief with conservative self-care.
Although there is little scientific evidence for the effectiveness of using CBD to treat back spasms, some initial studies suggest it may offer some benefits.
People using CBD for this health issue should ensure products contain what they claim and are free from contaminants. Researching a range of brands and products, including looking through customer reviews and independent test reports, may help.