Can CBD Help with Joint and Muscle Pain? What the Science Says About Orthopaedic Relief

When everyday movements start to feel like hard work - climbing stairs, bending to tie your shoes, or even just sitting for too long - pain can steal more than a bit of joy from life. And while painkillers may offer temporary relief, they are often just masking symptoms. Many people are looking for more natural, sustainable options that don’t come with the same long-term risks.

Could CBD be one of them?

A new scientific review suggests it might have a role to play - especially for those managing ongoing discomfort from joint, muscle, or back pain. In this article, we break down what the researchers found, why it matters, and how CBD fits into the bigger picture of orthopaedic wellness.

The Growing Need for Safer Orthopaedic Pain Relief

Orthopaedic pain is one of the most common reasons people visit doctors today. From arthritis and injuries to chronic back pain, these conditions affect millions - young and old alike. And they’re not just a nuisance. They can interfere with work, sleep, fitness, and emotional wellbeing.

For many years, the go-to solution has been medication - often strong painkillers like opioids. But over time, concerns have grown. These drugs, while powerful, carry a high risk of side effects, dependency, and even overdose.

It’s no surprise, then, that interest in natural alternatives to opioids is growing. One option that’s been gaining attention? Cannabinoids - plant-based compounds found in hemp and cannabis, including cannabidiol (CBD).

What Makes CBD Different?

CBD is a naturally occurring compound in the hemp plant, but unlike THC (its more famous cousin), it doesn’t cause a "high". Instead, it interacts more subtly with the body’s endocannabinoid system - a network that plays a role in pain, mood, sleep, and inflammation.

In the UK and Europe, CBD is legally available in various wellness products, from oils and capsules to balms and patches. And many people are turning to it in hopes of finding gentle support for everything from stress and sleep to - you guessed it - muscle and joint pain.

But what does the science say?

A Closer Look at the Evidence around the Cannabinoid

A systematic review published in July 2025 set out to answer a specific question: can cannabis-based products help manage orthopaedic pain?

To find out, researchers analysed twelve high-quality clinical studies - each one a randomised controlled trial (the gold standard in medical research). These studies looked at different kinds of cannabinoid treatments, including CBD, and how they affected pain caused by conditions like arthritis, trauma, spinal injuries, and nerve damage.

The results were encouraging - but also complex.

Where CBD Products Show Promise

Let’s start with what worked well.

In several studies, cannabinoid treatments helped reduce pain significantly when compared to a placebo or no treatment at all. This was especially true in conditions involving nerve pain or long-standing inflammation. One study even found that people with rheumatoid arthritis experienced noticeable improvements in both pain and sleep when using a THC+CBD spray.

Another study looked specifically at CBD for orthopaedic pain - testing 400mg of oral CBD in people with acute low back pain. While the results didn’t show a major difference from placebo, the researchers noted that more work is needed to find the right dose and delivery method for CBD to be fully effective.

It’s a reminder that CBD isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. But it might be an important piece of the puzzle for those seeking plant-based pain support.

Safer Than Traditional Pain Management Options?

Pain relief isn’t just about what works - it’s about what’s safe to use regularly.

One of the most interesting takeaways from the review was how well most people tolerated cannabinoid treatments. Across the twelve studies, side effects were mostly mild and short-lived. The most common issue? Dizziness - which was more likely at higher doses or with THC-containing products.

Importantly, there were very few serious side effects. And almost no one had to stop treatment because of how they felt.

For people looking for non-addictive pain relief, that’s worth paying attention to. Especially when compared to stronger pain medications that can lead to dependency or long-term harm.

How You Use CBD Matters

Another factor that shaped the outcomes? The delivery method.

Products like sprays (absorbed through the cheek and under the tongue) and vapourised cannabinoids (inhaled) tended to perform better than standard oral capsules. That’s likely because they work faster and avoid some of the breakdown that happens in the digestive system.

That said, oral CBD - like the kind found in many CBD oils, capsules, or gummies - was generally well tolerated and still showed positive effects, especially when taken consistently over time.

It’s a reminder that when choosing cannabinoids for trauma recovery or muscle pain, how you take them can make a real difference.

CBD Alone vs. THC: What’s the Difference?

The review also highlighted an important point: not all cannabinoids are equal when it comes to pain.

Some of the strongest results were seen in products that combined CBD with small amounts of THC. THC appears to have a more potent effect on pain - particularly nerve-related pain - but also brings a higher risk of side effects.

That’s why many people prefer starting with CBD alone. While it might not be as instantly powerful, it offers a gentler, more approachable route - especially for those who want to avoid any psychoactive effects.

As research continues, the goal is to understand which combinations and doses work best for which conditions. But for now, CBD remains a popular first step.

Beyond Pain: A Holistic Approach to Healing

One of the more subtle benefits noted in the research? Improved sleep and mood.

Several studies found that people taking cannabinoid products slept better and felt less anxious. That might not seem directly related to pain - but anyone who’s dealt with chronic discomfort knows how these things are all connected.

Less pain can lead to better sleep. Better sleep can lead to improved mood. And a better mood can help you stay active, keep moving, and recover more easily.

That’s why so many people exploring CBD and back pain or arthritis are also drawn to its potential calming effects.

What It Means for You

So - what’s the bottom line?

CBD may not replace your current pain management plan. But it could be a valuable natural support option, particularly for those dealing with long-term joint or muscle discomfort.

It’s especially promising if:

• You’re looking for something plant-based

• You want to avoid the side effects of stronger medications

• You’re managing everyday pain that interferes with movement, sleep, or recovery

It’s worth noting that results can vary. Your experience with CBD will depend on the product, the dose, how consistently you take it, and your individual response. But for many people, it offers a gentle way to feel more in control of their own body again.

Final Thoughts: One Step in the Right Direction

The science behind CBD for pain is still growing - but this latest review suggests it may offer real value, especially when it comes to orthopaedic issues like joint and muscle pain.

It won’t work overnight. It’s not a cure. But it could be part of a smarter, more holistic approach to managing discomfort - one that looks beyond quick fixes and toward long-term wellbeing.

If you’re considering adding CBD to your routine, start with a high-quality, lab-tested product, and take it slow. And as always, talk to your healthcare provider first, especially if you're already taking prescription medication.

Curious to learn more? Reach out with any questions - our team is here to help!

Sources

[1] Shah D, Murhekar S, Ward M, Sagane S, Pahwani A. The efficacy and safety of use of cannabis and cannabinoid products for pain relief in orthopaedic conditions and trauma. Cureus. 2025 Jul;17(7):e87208.