First let’s talk about CBD, also known as Cannabidiol. There are 2 components to the hemp plant, THC which is the psychoactive portion of the plant and CBD(cannabidiol) which has no psychoactive properties. CBD has been shown to have some positive effects on healing and is legal in all states, currently. These products and can be bought in stores or through the web including places like Amazon. CBD is safe and is a natural extract from a plant but it can still be considered as medicine. The FDA does not allow CBD companies to market their products for any specific conditions. You should talk to your doctor before using this product for any purpose.
What do the studies say about CBD? Most studies have been done in mice and rats. And other studies are done by gathering information from people that have used CBD and had relief. Studies have shown that CBD decreases inflammation and pain and may have an effect on diabetes. So with these findings, there are many uses in people with foot pain and inflammation.
CBD for Diabetic Nerve Pain
CBD comes in several forms and has been shown to decrease some of the burning and tingling sensations in some people with diabetic neuropathy. You can rub a CBD cream or oil into the skin in areas that are painful to help get relief by affecting the superficial nerves under the skin. The CBD can decrease the inflammation of the nerve and block pain sensations as well. Some people may prefer to ingest the CBD and can take it under the tongue as oil, as a capsule by mouth, and as a candy. It may be worth trying topical and oral forms to see what gives you the most relief. While this is only temporary relief and will not cure neuropathy, it can help you function better through your day as some studies have shown. As far as diabetes goes, CBD has been shown to lower blood sugar and increase insulin production. Again, please consult with your doctor before using these products.
CBD for Foot and Ankle Inflammation
Studies done in China and Italy have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. So, it may be used to treat inflammation from injuries and arthritis when applied to the area of swelling. The CBD can also be taken by mouth to have more full-body effects. CBD can have an effect on Cytokines which are inflammation regulating compounds and this is why they can be effective to decrease swelling. This may be a good alternative for those that choose not to take prescription or over-the-counter medications to reduce inflammation. Drink companies are putting CBD in their products to organically help with inflammation.
CBD for Foot and Ankle Pain
You may have noticed that celebrities such as Melissa Mccarthy are using CBD oil to stop foot pain while wearing their heels! Other celebrities have claimed that they have been getting relief from heel pain/plantar fasciitis using CBD. So how does this work? There are receptors in our bodies throughout a system known as the Endocannabinoid system. CBD can bind to these receptors in your body to help decrease pain.
CBD for Blisters
CBD has been combined with ozone in products to provide a decrease in inflammation and bacteria to help heal blisters more quickly. Some people are using CBD in known high-pressure areas on the feet to help prevent blisters.
At Gentle Foot Care, we like to explore new options that may be available to you. In this case, we are discussing a natural plant product known as CBD that has many promising uses for foot pain and inflammation as well as diabetic neuropathy. We expect that there will be more studies in the future showing the benefits of CBD.
Of course, if you have any of these problems, please make an appointment to see Dr. Cruz and discuss your options.
Dr. Cruz is currently seeing patients in Brandon and Zephyrhills and is offering Telehealth appointments. The offices are taking full COVID-19 precautions. You can contact his office here.
