CBD for Carpal Tunnel: A Complete Guide to Natural Pain Relief

The truth of the matter is that carpal tunnel syndrome can be a real pain — and we mean that quite literally — and can make it difficult to perform many of your every day tasks. People want to feel better without throwing a whole lot of pills at it. That’s where CBD comes in. You may have heard about all of it and, perhaps, you’re wondering if this all-natural alternative could actually ease that bothersome wrist pain. We’re taking a look at what CBD is, and what, if any, place it has in assisting with carpal tunnel troubles.

This article by Sisters of the Valley is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The information provided should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or replace professional medical consultation.

What Exactly Is CBD Anyway?

It’s Not What You Think

All right, so you’ve likely heard of CBD, but perhaps you’re not exactly sure what it is. This is not some wacky new thing, and you definitely will not get high from it. CBD stands for cannabidiol, a natural compound found in hemp plants. It’s becoming more popular because it may have health benefits, but some people don’t know what it really is (and what it is not). Think of it as THC’s cousin, but the cool chill responsible cousin.

Understanding the Endocannabinoid System

OK, it’s about to get nerdy up in here, but I promise I’ll make it easy to understand. Your body has this something called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). “It’s like a grand master network for keeping everything balanced — mood, sleep, pain, all the good stuff,” she said. CBD engages this system, making it more active and better able to carry out its job. Think of it as a little extra jolt into your body’s control center. Some experts even believe that the endocannabinoid system is a master orchestrator of physiology.

CBD Versus THC: The Lowdown

All right, for the record, CBD and THC are not the same thing. THC is the component of cannabis that gives you that feeling of being high. CBD, however, doesn’t produce those psychoactive effects. It can be as mixed up as coffee and tea — both are plant-based, but with very different effects. CBD products have very little THC (less than 0.3 percent) so you don’t have to worry about ending up higher than an astronaut. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• CBD: Non-psychoactive, and it might ease pain and anxiety
• THC: Psychoactive, may produce a high
• Legality: CBD is mostly legal, but THC edicts are dependent on your state of residence

CBD is a bit like a body support system. It contributes to balance without much of the high, making it potentially useful in managing things like carpal tunnel symptoms. It’s no magic bullet, but it may serve as a useful part of your general wellness routine.

Why CBD for Carpal Tunnel Is Trending

Tackling Inflammation Head-On

Carpal tunnel syndrome? It is frequently the result of inflammation in your wrist. That inflammation squeezes the median nerve, resulting in pain, tingling and numbness. CBD is receiving some attention because it might help reduce inflammation. Some research has suggested that CBD has anti-inflammatory effects on nerves, which could help to tame the squeeze on that nerve. It is not a magic bullet — and a reason people are experimenting with it.

Soothing Aches and Pains

Let’s face it – carpal tunnel can be a real pain. They are turning to CBD because they may find relief from certain aches and pains. CBD activates your body’s endocannabinoid system, which contributes to pain relief.

Think of it this way: The CBD could pulse the brakes on the signals that tell your brain you are hurting. It is not about covering the pain but might be about addressing the cause of discomfort.

Beyond Just Pain Relief

There may be more to CBD than pain relief. Some users say it’s effective for sleep — which can be very difficult when your hand is throbbing all night — as well. What’s more, if stress is exacerbating your carpal tunnel symptoms, CBD’s anxiolytic effects could be a bonus. It’s the sort of “killing several birds with one stone” that could make the powers that be weep with joy. Some are even turning to CBD for pets, as a way to help with anxiety. Here’s a short summary of possible benefits:

• Reduced inflammation
• Pain management
• Improved sleep
• Stress reduction

Finding the Right CBD Product for Your Hands

All right, so you’re considering CBD for your carpal tunnel? Awesome! But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right one for your hands? Let’s demystify it as best we can.

Topical Treatments: Rub It In

Topical CBD treatments are creams or lotions that you rub into the affected area. The wonderful thing about them is they can focus in the area where you have the problem. Consider this like slapping a Band-Aid directly onto the pain point.

Pros: Simple to use, targeted relief Cons: May not be potent enough for deep pain, needs reapplication frequently Good for: Mild-to-moderate pain, stiffness and inflammation

“What seems to help best with the nighttime aches is a cream that contains CBD used before bedtime. I slap that shit on and it doesn’t make me feel weird like some of the pain meds that I take.”

Oral Treatments: Think Outside the Box

Oral CBD products, like just some capsules, tinctures, or edibles, do their thing by entering your blood stream. That means that they can spread to your entire body, and not just to your hands. It is a more systemic way of treating pain.

Pros: Can make a difference in your over all pain, anxiety, last longer Cons: Takes longer to take effect, more difficult to determine your exact dose for your hands Good for: Anyone with anxiety or generalized pain or those in need of longer-lasting relief

Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, or Isolate: Which One Is Right For Me?

This is where it can get a bit tricky. Let’s simplify it:

• Full Spectrum: Everything you want and need, including trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%). Some people think you get the most benefits if all the compounds in the cannabis plant work together because of the “entourage effect”
• Broad Spectrum: Like full spectrum, but the THC is eliminated. Solid choice if you don’t want any THC
• Isolate: Just CBD, without any other compounds. It’s the most processed form

Which one is best? It really depends on you! Others swear by full spectrum, while still others shy totally away from THC. Joy Organics is good for mild pain so that might be the way to start. You will have to experiment, and find what is best for your body. If you need something stronger, we recommend Aspen Green for extra strength CBD cream needs.

How to Take CBD for Carpal Tunnel Pain

So you’re considering turning to CBD to aid in soothing your carpal tunnel? Awesome! But how do you use it, exactly? It’s not as simple as popping a pill; there are a couple of things you need to consider if you want to get the most from it. Let’s break it down.

Finding Your Perfect Dose

Well, this is where it gets a little sticky. But there is no one-size-fits-all dose of CBD. What does the trick for your friend may not work for you, and that’s perfectly O.K. Low and slow is the golden rule.

Here’s a general idea:

1. Begin with a small amount: Perhaps 5–10mg of CBD to start
2. Notice: Notice how you are feeling the next few hours
3. Tweak: If you feel no effect, the next day increase the dose slightly. Maybe go up to 15mg
4. Repeat: Continue to tinker until you hit a dose that delivers the relief you seek
5. Keep a diary: Document how much you take and how you feel. That will help you dial in the perfect amount

It may require a little testing, but you’ll hit that sweet spot. And don’t forget, you can always take more, but you can’t take less once you’ve already consumed it.

Consistency Is Key

CBD isn’t always a quick fix. It’s fast-acting for some people, but for others, it takes a little bit of time to begin to build in their system. Consistency is everything.

• Regular use of CBD: Don’t just get yourself some when the pain gets really bad. Strive to take it daily, even when you feel fine
• Be patient: It could be a week or two of steady use before you really start seeing results
• Don’t despair: If you don’t feel it in the beginning, don’t give up! Stick with it and, you may be surprised at the results

Consider it a vitamin. You don’t take a vitamin once and then all of a sudden become this superhero of health. You have to use it on a regular basis to get the benefits. CBD is kind of the same way.

When to Apply and How Often

This will vary based on what kind of CBD product you’re using.

• Topicals: If you’re using CBD cream or balm, apply to the affected area (your wrist and hand) whenever you experience pain or discomfort. If necessary, you can reapply it multiple times per day
• Oils/Tinctures: These are taken under the tongue. It can have effects that last hours, and you might only need to take it once or twice a day. Simply, read and follow the instructions on the product label
• Capsules/Edibles: These have a slower onset, as they must be digested first. The effects also last longer. You may only have to take one dose per day. And again, just follow the label

Trust your body and vary the amount and time of day to use the product accordingly. If you experience more pain at night, you may prefer to take CBD before bed. If it feels worse during the day, the morning or in the afternoon.

Real Talk: The Truth About What You Can Expect From CBD

Look Out for Potential Side Effects

Alright, so CBD seems at least to be safe, but nothing is without side effects — other than life. Some people might be a little drowsy, or have a touch of dry mouth. Changes in appetite or even some digestive issues are also not out of the realm of possibility. The key is to listen to your body and how it responds. If you notice anything off-putting or uncomfortable, it may be smart to lower the dose or cease use entirely and have a chat with your doc.

It’s Not a Miracle Cure

Let’s get something super clear: CBD is not going to magically make your carpal tunnel disappear overnight. It is not a miracle cure, and anyone telling you otherwise is likely attempting to sell you something. What CBD can do is help manage some of the symptoms, such as pain and inflammation. Think of it as one instrument in your toolbox, not the toolbox itself. You’ll probably still need to stretch and adjust your workstation, and you may have to see a doctor.

Let It Do Its Thing

Don’t expect instant results. With CBD it isn’t like swallowing a painkiller and 2 hours later you feel relief. It typically takes time, days or even weeks, for it to accumulate in your system and to begin making a difference that you can notice. Be more consistent and patient. If the other self-help measures aren’t making things better after a few weeks, that might not be the answer for you, or you might need to take a higher dose.

Remember, everyone is different. What’s a godsend for one person may not do much for another. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Keep trying different things and figure out the best way you can succeed.

Shopping Smart: How to Find the Best CBD Quality

All right, so you want to try CBD for your carpal tunnel. Awesome! But where does one even begin to buy it? Not all CBD is created equal, and you want to know that you’re getting the good stuff. Here is the lowdown on how to shop smart.

Look for Lab Testing

This is super important. Third-Party Testing: Every well-known CBD company is going to get their products tested by a third-party lab. These tests ensure the CBD level is accurate and that there are no harmful additives like heavy metals or pesticides. Look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) on the company’s website, or a QR code on the product that you can scan. That’s a red flag if they don’t have it.

Understanding Product Labels

It can be like crackin’ a secret code tryin’ to read a CBD label, right? Here’s what to look for:

• CBD Potency: How potent is the CBD in this product? It should be expressed unambiguously in milligrams (mg)
• Ingredients: What else is in there? You’re looking to see natural stuff and avoiding anything with a bunch of chemicals you’re not going to be able to pronounce
• Batch Number: Think of this as the tracking number from the corresponding lab test results to the product
• Expiration Date: CBD does have a shelf life, so you should avoid buying an old product

It is easy to be overwhelmed by all the information on a CBD label. Just read slowly and carefully, and if something doesn’t make sense, don’t be afraid to ask about it.

Finding Brands You Can Trust

So how do you know where to find these good brands? Here are a few tips:

• Read Reviews: Find out who’s talking about the brand and its products. And are they pleased with the results? How was their customer service?
• Look for Transparency: Do they have a good “About Us” page that tells you where their CBD comes from and how it’s made? How transparent are they about their lab testing?
• Seek Out Certifications: A few CBD suppliers offer testing from third-party organizations or organizations that certifies the level of quality and safety in their products

Finding a brand that you trust may require a bit of digging, but it’s worth it if it means making sure you’re getting a safe and effective product. Don’t be afraid to try a few different brands until you find one you love!

Mixing CBD with Other Carpal Tunnel Strategies

CBD may be a beneficial tool to control carpal tunnel symptoms, but it works best as part of an overall strategy. Consider it as part of a larger plan to make your hands feel good again. Here are a few other ways you might consider combining CBD with other treatments for maximum benefit.

Ergonomics and Physical Workspace Settings

Your workspace may be a driving factor behind your carpal tunnel woes. There are a lot of tweaks that you can make to your setup that make a big difference. Here’s what to look for:

• Keyboard and Mouse Position: Keep your keyboard and mouse at a level that prevents your wrists from bending and keep them in line with your elbows
• Chair Height: Position your chair to fit you, your feet flat on the floor, with your knees at a 90-degree angle. This is conducive to good posture and helps to minimize stress on your wrists
• Breaks: Try to get up and walk around every 20-30 minutes. This can prevent stiffness, and it keeps your blood flowing

A solid ergonomic setup is like you’re giving your hands a vacation while you’re parked at your keyboard. It’s really about decreasing the strain and minding your posture.

Stretches and Exercises That Help

Certain stretches and exercises can be helpful in taking pressure off of the median nerve, which is the nerve affected by carpal tunnel. Here are a few to try:

• Wrist Extension Stretch: Straighten your arm out with the palm down. Here, bend your wrist toward the floor slightly. Pull your fingers in towards your body with your other hand. Hold for 15-30 seconds
• Wrist Flexor Stretch: Extend your arm out with your palm facing up. Slowly flex your wrist to point your fingers to the floor. With your other hand, pull your fingers towards yourself gently. Hold for 15-30 seconds
• Median Nerve Glide: Form a fist and stretch your fingers out as straight as they can be. Extend then flex your wrist. Repeat several times. This helps the median nerve to slide more freely

When to See a Doctor

CBD and other strategies can be helpful, but it’s good to know when to defer to doctors. See a doctor if:

• Your symptoms are severe and don’t improve with home treatment
• Your hand and fingers feel numb or weak
• You have trouble with, holding, or gripping objects
• Symptoms last longer than this home treatment

It is recommended that you speak with a doctor to ensure the correct diagnosis. If you are seeking out CBD products for the first time, there are as many options out there that may help treat your symptoms.

Can I Use CBD Legally for Carpal Tunnel?

Fine, fine, if you’re considering using CBD for your carpal tunnel. Smart move! However, before you go out and shop, let’s consider the legal aspect. It can get a little murky, but I will dissect this for you.

The Legal Terrain

CBD is a labyrinth — really, the rules on it change depending where you are. The first thing to understand: CBD is not the same thing as marijuana. Hemp-derived CBD is legal at the federal level, under the 2018 Farm Bill. This bill had the effect of deleting hemp from the definition of marijuana in the CSA. In essence, as long as it is derived from hemp and contains other ingredients, such as less than 0.3% THC, it’s not illegal on a federal level. But, marijuana-based CBD is an entirely different story, and its legality varies from state to state.

State-Specific Regulations

CBD is up to the states. Other states are super chill and make it very easy to get CBD from a variety of sources. For instance, with CBD being legal in New York State, it is relatively easy to find. Some states may require you to have a medical card to purchase CBD, especially if it is derived from marijuana. Please consult your own state’s laws regarding CBD and hemp products. This information is often available at your state government’s website or by searching online.

Travel Considerations

Planning a trip? Remember, what is legal in your home state may not be legal where you’re headed. It may be best to research the laws of the states you’re traveling through if you’re traveling with CBD, especially if you’re crossing state lines. Play it safe by sticking with hemp-derived CBD products that contain less than 0.3% THC. And if you’ll be flying, read the airline’s policies as well, just to be sure. That’s being safe rather than sorry, right?

Frequently Asked Questions Related to CBD and Carpal Tunnel

Will I Test Positive on a Drug Test?

Okay, so this is a big one. When it comes to drug testing, typically they’re searching for THC, not CBD. Usually CBD products have very little or even no THC (less than 0.3%), and certainly not enough to have you test positive. But it’s not a sure thing. Some products may contain more THC than their labels claim — particularly if purchased outside legal dispensaries, which are often less tightly regulated than pharmacies. Fair, so you should always cross-reference the product’s lab results to verify THC levels. If you are super concerned, just stick with CBD isolate, which should have 0% THC.

Can I Take It with Other Drugs?

Here is where you’ve got to be careful. CBD can interact with other medications, sort of like how grapefruit juice does. It can tamper with the way your body metabolizes certain drugs, so it alters their efficacy, either for better or for worse.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Blood thinners
• Antidepressants
• Certain pain medications

If you’re on any meds, discuss with your doctor beforehand whether to try out CBD. They can let you know if there’s a risk of interactions and help you with the dosing.

Is It Safe for Everyone?

CBD is really quite safe for most people. But, as with anything, it’s not for everyone. A few people might have side effects, such as feeling tired, diarrhea or changes in appetite. Plus, we have limited research about how CBD use by pregnant or breastfeeding women might affect their babies, so the best course of action is to not try it. And if you have liver issues, you should also discuss with your doctor before going for CBD since CBD can also impact your liver enzymes. There was one 2020 study with encouraging findings but it’s better to be safe than to be sorry.

What Does the Future of CBD for Your Hands Look Like?

Ongoing Research and Studies

Researchers are still working to understand precisely how CBD can help with things like carpal tunnel. Current research is investigating how CBD is working for inflammation, pain signals, and nerve function in the hands and wrists. Such studies could pave the way for, in addition to other possibilities, better use of CBD.

New Product Innovations

Prepare for some slick new stuff! There are always companies looking for better ways to get the CBD into your hands. Think about it:

• CBD creams with added ingredients: Some creams and serums contain other ingredients such as menthol for cooling or arnica to aid in pain relief
• CBD patches: Like nicotine patches, except for CBD! You put them on your wrist and they gradually emit CBD during the course of the day
• More specific dosing: Companies are in the process of creating products that are easier to dose, so it’s clearer how much of the compound (and other potentially uncertain ingredients) you’re getting

With any luck, we’ll also start seeing more inventive uses for CBD in hand health further down the line. The aim is to make relief easier, more effective and more convenient to access.

What Experts Are Saying

There’s a lot of excitement around the potential of CBD, but experts want people to be smart. While most doctors believe CBD is at least worth a try for some patients, they point out that lack of evidence is a barrier to the broader utilization of CBD for more patients. They frequently recommend using CBD as part of an overall plan that might also include exercises, ergonomics and changes to your desk setup, perhaps even a visit to a physical therapist. It’s finding what works for you, really.

Wrapping Things Up

So, there you have it. We’ve said a lot about CBD as an alternative treatment for carpal tunnel issues. It seems, there’s still some research to be done to suss it all out conclusively, but many people are getting some relief. And this is just me, and everyone is different, and what works for some people may not work for others. If you’re considering taking CBD, I urge you to speak with your doctor before doing so (particularly if you’re on other medications). They can help you determine if it’s right for you and what type of CBD is most appropriate. It’s just a matter of finding what makes you feel better, isn’t it?

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol, a natural compound from the cannabis plant. But here’s the crucial point: It’s not the same thing as THC, which is the component of cannabis that makes you feel high.

What is the mechanism by which CBD works in the body?

CBD interacts with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). Think of your ECS as a control center that helps maintain balance for many body functions, including sleep, mood and even pain. It’s also thought that CBD improves the functioning of two receptors in the endocannabinoid system and these benefits the system.

Will CBD make me feel high?

No, in most cases, CBD from hemp plants will have a very small amount of THC (less than 0.3%). It’s not enough to make you feel high. Our products are validated to ensure that they meet these standards.

Why people are taking CBD for carpal tunnel?

A lot of people take CBD for pain and swelling, both of which are big issues with carpal tunnel. It may help dampen the body’s pain signals and reduce inflammation.

How does one use CBD for carpal tunnel?

You also can massage CBD oils and creams directly onto your wrist and hand for fast-acting relief. You can take some of them orally (like you would with oil), while others are absorbed under your tongue. There are also CBD creams, tinctures, pills, and concentrates.

Is it safe to take CBD with other medications?

It’s always wise to consult your doctor before trying any new substance — including CBD. They can let you know whether it’s safe for you and if it may interact with other medications you’re taking.

How do I determine the proper dosage of CBD?

The right CBD dosage can vary from one person to another. Like all things, it’s often best to start small and gradually increase the amount until you feel the desired effects. Consistency of use is also important.

How do I know if I’m getting a quality CBD product?

When shopping for CBD, seek products that have been tested by a third-party laboratory. That means a special lab tested the product to ensure it’s pure and that the right amount of CBD is there. This is to help you know that you’re getting a good, safe product.