Many forms of cannabidiol (CBD) products are available and have potential for alleviating back pain. CBD is relatively new to the health and wellness industry. Some products may make claims not supported by scientific evidence or may not actually contain potent levels of CBD.

There are many types of CBD products available, including edibles, oils, tinctures, and creams. These products are available over-the-counter at stores and online.

Considerations When Choosing CBD Products

Because of the abundance of types and companies that produce them, there are certain testing and labeling elements a person should look for when considering CBD products.

Third-party testing. Look for products that have been tested by a company other than the one selling it. Third-party testers are concerned with the ingredients regardless of what the manufacturer says.
Clear and accurate labeling. Manufacturers should make testing results accessible and easy to understand on the label and online.
Continuous testing. Each “batch” of a product can vary in quality and content. Reliable manufacturers regularly test their products and will update the testing results on the labels and online.

CBD products are unregulated by the FDA. Because of this, it is important to read labels carefully and discuss any concerns with a health care provider.

See Medications for Back Pain and Neck Pain

Types of CBD Products Available

Currently, there are no CBD products available that specifically treat back pain. Some of the most common CBD products that may be used to treat back pain include:

Oils. CBD oil can be taken orally, vaporized, or mixed into beverages. Generally, oil is what is used in other CBD products, such as creams, and sprays, but can also be used alone. CBD oil-filled capsules are also available, which provide the ability to more accurately determine dosing (for example, taking 450 mg vs. 3000 mg).
Tinctures. A tincture is made by soaking cannabis flowers in alcohol for an extended period of time. This process will extract the CBD into a more concentrated form than found in most CBD oil products. Generally, tincture bottles are designed with a built-in dropper so a person can take one drop or several. Tinctures can be used on their own or mixed with food or beverage.
Edibles. CBD can be mixed into foods and drinks. They can also be made at home by mixing CBD oil or tinctures into food and drinks. Examples include baked goods, gummies, and chocolates.
Creams and gels. CBD-infused lotions are considered topical because they are applied to the skin. CBD-infused creams and gels are absorbed by the skin, which makes them a good solution to back or neck pain, and they have been shown to reduce inflammatory and neuropathic pain.

See Non-Surgical Treatments for Lower Back Pain

Choosing the correct CBD product to alleviate back pain symptoms may require trial and error in order to find the correct delivery method and dosing.

See Pain Management for Chronic Back Pain

Consumers of CBD are encouraged to stay informed about regulations surrounding products.

Dr. Rahul Khare is an emergency medicine physician and founder of Innovative Wellness. He has over 15 years of experience diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries.