21 Mar Can Cannabidiol Improve Performance in Athletes?
Current and former professional athletes are supporting cannabidiol (CBD) to treat conditions like joint pain, inflammation, and sore muscles. Although research is limited, there has been a strong correlation showing that it has healing properties. In this blog, we explain what CBD is, how it works, and why you should see a chiropractor in El Segundo if you are suffering from sports injuries.
A Non-Psychoactive Treatment for Pain
Cannabidiol is a chemical found in the Cannabis sativa plant (marijuana). Since its discovery, it has been revolutionized into a popular natural remedy to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. As sports players, we understand how important it is for you to have instant, long-term relief. Additionally, without THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) you do not have to worry about the psychoactive side effects. Here are a few findings according to Healthline:
- THC can weaken short-term memory, whereas CBD does not
- Unlike painkillers, CBD does not have elements that prompt misuse or dependence
- CBD can be used to treat addiction to opioids and substances with serious risks
- It is still a controversial topic, but CBD is still proven as non-psychoactive
- This type of CBD does not get users high
Throughout various trials, studies report some users experienced side effects from CBD. However, it is limited to the following:
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea
- Weight change
- Appetite change
Legality for Athletic Events
Major sports leagues are not keen on the use of THC, which may make CBD a reasonable option if you feel this is the right option in addition to chiropractic sports medicine. Three years ago, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from a list of banned substances. Although this is a positive milestone for CBD research, there is still more to be done before athletes can fully rely on its benefits.
Before you partake in this form of treatment you should seek medical advice first. Make sure to do research and obtain CBD from a reliable source before you take it. A medical professional will review dosage, side effects, and different ways to consume it. Topical CBD is slightly different but provides the same advantages.
CBD or Sports Medicine?
Unfortunately, there is still a lot of information researchers do not know about CBD, including its full impact on performance. We recommend scheduling an appointment with a sports medicine specialist at Premiere Chiropractic. Each specialist can provide you with long-lasting, immediate, and therapeutic results. A wide range of conditions are treated including:
- Ligament sprains
- Tendon strains
- Fractures
- Contusion
- Tendonitis/Tendinosis
- Arthritis
- Carpal tunnel