Cannabidiol (more commonly known as CBD oil) is an extract of Cannabis indica and Cannabis sativa, the same plants used to make marijuana. From oils and nasal sprays to sweets and soft drinks, CBD is becoming increasingly popular in the UK for treating and helping to relieve various conditions.
CBD is said to provide relief for anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, as well as pain relief, and there are said to be some key benefits that CBD oil may have when incorporated it into your daily life.
CBD and pain relief for CRPS
Formerly known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is caused by an injury to the sympathetic nerves resulting in severe pain. The definition of CRPS has changed regularly through the years and there are now two separate recognised types:
- Type I – often known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy and shows no evidence of nerve lesions
- Type II – often known as causalgia and has clear evidence of nerve lesions and damage
CRPS is a chronic condition that is typically triggered by a traumatic injury to a limb, but the pain does not subside as would usually happen during a usual recovery. Those suffering from CRPS tend to experience pain that is greatly amplified and disproportionate to the severity of the injury itself and it can be catastrophic for many.
Cannabis has been used to treat pain for thousands of years, and in more recent history, scientists and researchers have uncovered that there are specific components of the marijuana plant, including CBD that are responsible for the pain-relieving effect that CBD can have.
Many people use CBD to relieve pain. CBD works in three main ways:
- reducing inflammation by decreasing the production of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines;
- by binding to and blocking receptors in the central nervous system that are associated with pain; and
- reducing anxiety associated with pain by binding to serotonin receptors and giving a natural anti-depressant.
There are few studies that have specifically explored the relationship between CBD and CRPS itself, however there have been a number of promising studies that have looked into cannabis and its ability to provide pain relief to sufferers of CRPS.
CRPS is a poorly understood condition and therefore difficult to treat. There is no known cure for CRPS, however, a combination of physical treatments, medication and psychological support can help to manage symptoms.
Is CBD legal?
CBD is legal in the UK, however the law states that the product has to meet certain criteria to be lawfully available for human consumption. Primarily CBD oil must not contain any trace of THC to be legally sold in the UK (it’s the THC that’s present in the cannabis plant that gets you high). Many CBD products on the high street aren’t always properly authorised, therefore it’s best to buy them from trusted websites, pharmacies or stores and to speak to your doctor before taking CBD products.
To be legal in the UK CBD products must have no THC, so that they’re not psychoactive and won’t get you high. They are becoming increasingly popular for those suffering from various medical conditions, however with all supplements there are possible side effects which could affect you. Our understanding of the role of CBD in pain management continues to evolve and it is important to read the product information and packaging so you’re aware of what could happen and to speak to your doctor before starting to take CBD products to help relieve CRPS symptoms.
If you are suffering from fibromyalgia, CRPS, or any chronic pain condition as a result of an accident that was not your fault, and even if you have an existing claim, get in touch with Brian Barr Solicitors to see if we can assist. It is simple and hassle free to move your claim to Brian Barr Solicitors who are experts in dealing with chronic pain litigation. Call us today on 0161 737 9248 or visit our website (www.brianbarr.co.uk) to find out more.
We do not endorse any research, studies or sources mentioned within our blogs and comments. The blog is for information purposes only as we are not medical professionals, and it should not be relied upon as legal advice as cases may vary depending on the specific facts. We do not endorse any medical advice provided and would strongly recommend anyone seeking medical advice to contact their local healthcare provider before any changes to treatment and / or management of your condition is undertaken. Please note that local laws vary regarding CBD products.
