Exploring the Potential of CBD for Managing Nerve Pain and Trigeminal Neuralgia Symptoms
Updated: Mar 6
Peripheral neuropathy can be incredibly painful and unfortunately, in many cases, the medications that doctors prescribe can fail to provide sufficient relief. This has lead to people searching for other natural alternatives that can help those dealing with this condition. Due to its low risk and reputation for helping manage chronic pain, there is hope that CBD oil might be the solution they have been searching for.
What is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a chronic condition that causes pain due to damaged nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. It’s estimated that over 20 million people in the U.S. have some form of peripheral neuropathy, but the real number might be even higher. There are a number of reasons why nerves can become damaged; ranging from experiencing a traumatic accident, infections, and exposure to toxins to certain conditions like nutrient deficiencies, alcohol use disorder, or diabetes.
The symptoms associated with neuropathy can vary depending on factors such as the underlying cause, how long the nerves have been damaged, and to what extent. However, some of the more common symptoms can include:
Feelings of numbness or a tingling sensation (often in the hands and feet)
Increased sensitivity to touch.
Loss of coordination.
Low blood pressure or an abnormal heart rate.
Unintentional weight loss.
Issues with urination or digestion.
Muscle weakness or pain.
Organ dysfunction or paralysis.
Can CBD Help Treat Nerve Pain?
CBD oil has long been touted as a potential therapeutic option to help manage a wide range of conditions. Researchers have found evidence that it might help in dealing with issues ranging from anxiety and depression to conditions like autism and epilepsy. But can the same be said about neuropathy and nerve damage?
While research into CBD for nerve pain specifically is still in its early stages, there is promising evidence that it can help those suffering find relief. And due to its anti-inflammatory and healing properties, many believe that CBD might be a natural alternative to opioids and other prescription pain medications; especially for those where current treatment methods haven’t been enough to help.
In a 2020 study, researchers explored the effectiveness of topical CBD to relieve symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy in the lower extremities. They found that the transdermal application of cannabidiol was well tolerated and lead to significant improvement in pain as well as other symptoms experienced by patients with peripheral neuropathy. They went on to note that CBD may provide a more effective alternative to other current therapies.
In one rat study, researchers found data supporting the use of CBD to potentially help prevent and treat chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CIPN).
In another study published in 2017, researchers explored the use of specific cannabinoids for chronic neuropathic pain and found that it may provide an analgesic benefit. However, they also noted that larger studies are still needed to fully understand its effects as well as things like specific dosage and how long it should be used.
The above research supports the findings of another study, where researchers found that due to the potential effect CBD can have on glycine receptors in the body (which relate to regulating pain in the spinal cord), there is evidence that CBD can significantly suppress chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain in mice.
It’s important to note that many of the studies conducted explored the combined impact of CBD and THC on nerve pain and more research is needed into the potential of just CBD.
That said, these studies demonstrate the potential of CBD as another means to manage nerve pain and help improve the quality of life of those suffering.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia also referred to as tic douloureux is a very painful, chronic issue that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is responsible for carrying sensation from the face to the brain. It usually involves an intense, stabbing pain often experienced in the lower face and jaw but can affect the nose and above the eyes as well. While the pain might start off as mild, it can become progressively worse if not treated. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, every year 150,000 people are diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia.
There are a number of conditions that can result in Trigeminal neuralgia including:
Aging
Multiple sclerosis or a similar disorder
Tumors
Brain lesions
Surgical injuries
Stroke
Facial trauma
Can CBD Help Treat Trigeminal Neuralgia?
When CBD enters the body it interacts with the endocannabinoid system. This interaction is one of the primary causes behind many of the benefits we often hear about CBD, including its potential to alleviate anxiety as well as its role in pain management. It’s this ability to help regulate chronic pain and inflammation that has led researchers to believe it might also be able to help relieve the pain associated with Trigeminal neuralgia.
Trigeminal neuralgia presents several therapeutic challenges to clinicians. While the currently utilized drug therapy to treat this condition can help, in many cases, they aren’t sufficiently effective. Additionally, a number of other methods that have been developed over the years present side effects and many individuals prefer not to trade pain relief for other negative symptoms.
Fortunately, according to one study, because of its antinociceptive effects (or ability to help manage pain), there is evidence that cannabinoids may be a promising approach for treating trigeminal neuralgia.
Many individuals who suffer from Trigeminal neuralgia also suffer from symptoms of anxiety, depression as well as insomnia. Fortunately, CBD has shown to be effective in dealing with these issues as well.
What Type of CBD is Best For Nerve Pain?
While topical CBD might not reach deep enough to directly access the nerves and cure damage; it may help relieve many symptoms associated with neuropathy by numbing or alleviating pain.
But topical CBD is not the only CBD product that can aid in pain management. There is strong evidence that several other products such as oils and softgels can be effective. Because everyone’s tastes and preferences are different, you might have to experiment with several different options until you find what is right for you.
For more tips on finding the right CBD product for your needs we highly recommend checking out this helpful guide.
Getting Started Improving Your Quality of Life
The best way to prevent peripheral neuropathy is to manage the conditions that increase your risk through healthy lifestyle changes. For example, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly and trying to avoid factors that may result in nerve damage can all help in preventing neuropathy. If neuropathy is a result of another condition like diabetes, it’s also important to manage it in accordance with your doctor’s recommendations.
That said, if you are experiencing persistent pain that won’t go away, you should consult with a doctor for potential treatments. We also suggest asking your physician before deciding to add CBD or any supplement into your daily routine to ensure that it is safe and won’t interact with any other current medications you are taking.
At Easy Day Hemp, we know that dealing with chronic pain can be debilitating and can make just getting through the day more difficult. If you are ready to start using CBD and seeing how it can improve your quality of life we have a full line of premium products to try. Whether it’s CBD Topicals or oils and softgels, we have what you need to have your own Easy Day.