You may have met individuals with chronic pain. Excruciating at times and life-altering in most cases. Many people who suffer from pain issues cope by adopting this motto…“I’ve learned to live with it.” One can’t help but wonder if they have tried to suppress the pain utilizing ALL the knowledge and medicine that science has given us. Believe it or not, some still do not know about the medicinal properties of CBD. If they knew of an option that may produce better results than the traditional painkillers, would they use it?
According to CDC.gov, 20.4% of adults had chronic pain, and 7.4% of that population experienced chronic pain that limited life and work in the past three months. The CDC states that untreated chronic pain and also life-altering pain only get worse with age.
Let’s discuss some of the implications of chronic pain and, more importantly, how CBD has been causing significant changes to the quality of life for those affected by chronic pain.
The Effects of Unrelieved Pain
Studies show that chronic pain impacts quality of life. Is it safe to say that the effects of chronic pain can also impact the family? The psychological impact of chronic pain ripples through the family nucleus and causes high levels of stress, anxiety, and fear.
The frightening reality is that as the number of those suffering grows substantially from year to year, opioid dependence is very much on the rise. Many of those who are suffering become dependent on pain medication or self-medicating. As a result, the use (or abuse) of these drugs dramatically affects their quality of life.
We agree that chronic pain has mood-altering effects. As stated by Ann-Marie D’arcy-Sharpe of pathways, “pain for prolonged periods can take a toll on the mind and body.”
Receiving a diagnosis of ongoing pain can have detrimental effects on the patient’s mind, and mood disorders can begin to rear their ugly head.
In January 2021, the CDC reported that the percent of adults aged 18 and over with consistent feelings of worry, nervousness, or anxiety is estimated at 11.2%. Routine feelings of depression were 4.7%, and emergency room visits due to mental disorders as a primary diagnosis a staggering 4.9 million.
Cultural norms and faith can impact the method used to medicate and, at times, a history of substance abuse can cause an issue regarding treating the pain. But, does CBD have the potential to replace opioids?
Can CBD Help?
Well, CBD may help. We should keep in mind that the effects of CBD come down to amounts consumed, type, and frequency of use. However, we may find some concrete answers if we look within the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
A Very Brief ECS History
In 1973 scientists discovered the opiate receptor in the mammalian brain. In 1988 at the St. Louis University School of Medicine, Allyn Howlett and William Devane discovered that our brain has receptor sites that respond to compounds within cannabis. Interestingly these receptors were the most abundant type of neurotransmitter receptor in our brains. While researching scientist discovered an unknown molecular signaling system which regulated a broad range of biological functions. This system was named the endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS was found to accomplish various tasks, with its primary function being to maintain a stable environment within the body. It creates our body’s homeostasis.
According to healthline.com, researchers believe that CBD interacts with the ECS. Your brain’s receptors receive information from stimuli and block signals for inflammation, thereby relieving pain associated with various ailments. As such, chronic pain may suffer a diminishing effect in individuals taking CBD. At this time, CBD research is moving at an exciting pace. CBD is currently being used to treat various chronic pain (or chronic pain derived) issues and providing relief for countless individuals.
Summing it Up
CBD is being used to treat various types of diseases related to pain, mood disorders, and cancers. It is undoubtedly bringing relief to many globally. Here in the U.S., 14% of adults use CBD products, but even with its substantial impact within the healthcare industry, 35% of adults lack familiarity, while 50% stated that they have heard of CBD but do not use it.
It may take some time for people to find the benefits of CBD. As we know, CBD can produce some incredible results. Unfortunately, for some, time is running out as they grow weaker, emotionally affected, and ultimately crippled by chronic pain. How can we help? Let’s do our part in educating those who are unfamiliar with the benefits of CBD.
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