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Osteoarthritis (OA) now affects over 30 million people in the United States and occurs as a result of mechanical wear and tear on the joints. Those who suffer from OA often report painful or achy joints, swelling, stiffness and decreased flexibility. While most people with OA develop it with age, other factors such as genetics, obesity, overuse, injury and gender (women over the age of 50 are more likely than men to develop OA) can also contribute to OA.1
In 2014, researchers discovered that our endocannabinoid system (ECS) may play a role in the development of OA.2 Despite the involvement of our ECS and research that demonstrates CBD is a powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic3, it is not commonly offered as a treatment for symptom management in OA.
When pain, inflammation and joint stiffness become more chronic symptoms of OA, people often resort to over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as acetaminophen and/or ibuprofen which while helpful for short-term symptom relief, can lead to liver, kidney, heart and stomach issues over the longer-term. And when OTC’s are no longer effective, prescription medications such as opioids may be offered for pain control.
No surprise then that many American’s are looking for an alternative to OTC and prescription medications.
With so much attention on CBD for pain relief, how can it be utilized for OA?
Start with a topical. Topical CBD is great for local relief with little chance of experiencing any side effects. Relief can start within minutes and last for several hours. Using a topical is simple and can provide a reduction in pain and swelling associated with OA.
At Circle Labs, all of our topical preparations utilize the now famous Circle Labs 3x strength Hemp Flower infused Olive Oil. It all starts with sustainably farmed, sun-grown hemp flowers infused into Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This powerful base is then combined with organic jojoba oil, organic beeswax and cold pressed essential oils. As with all our products, our topical preparations are third-party lab tested and pesticide, heavy metal and mold free.
Check out our new Pain Stick. This works great for sports pain and injuries with our easy on-the-go applicator that means no oily hands after applications, and a soothing icy-hot effect from the addition of menthol, Helichrysum flower oil, organic beeswax and other cold pressed essential oils.