Topicals can and do work for arthritis. It seems this is one of the most popular reasons people use them. That said, not every topical works for every person and every person reacts differently to every cannabis product. In a recent H&W article on HelloMD, Andrea Brooks, founder of Sava describes how they work:
"Applying a topical is a transdermal method of ingesting cannabis – meaning it goes through your skin. They work by binding to a network of receptors called CB2 that are found throughout the body and are activated either by the body’s naturally-occurring endocannabinoids or by cannabis compounds known as phytocannabinoids. When you apply most topicals, the cannabinoids don’t enter the bloodstream so you will not have a psychoactive experience. The two exceptions are with transdermal patches, which will deliver THC to the bloodstream and can cause psychoactive effects and cannabis-infused soaks, which allow THC to be absorbed through the colon. However, with lotions, salves, and the like, you can use them to relieve pain in a specific area while going about your day."
(https://www.hellomd.dev/health-wellness/topicals-a-revelation-in-treating-pain-with-cannabis)
If you are in California, my favorite balm for purchase is called Sweet Relief. You can purchase it here: https://getsweetreleaf.com/
I like it because it provides relief to my fibromyalgia, it smells nice and it is not greasy. Hope this helps!
pamelahadfield
If you are in the Bay area, there are a few dispensaries that carry a product simply called " The Spray ". After the alcohol evaporates there is no smell and the only thing left is the Cannabis ( which, after all, is the medicine doing the work ). There is no carrier, fragrance, or other ingredients.
paul11
YES!! I use a combination of CBD salve from Sisters of the Valley and for deep pain I use a combination of THC & CBD massage oil. I just rub it in and the pain goes away for 5 hours at a time. (For my body) I also use the combination for sciatica flares, knee pain (both joint & muscle) and shoulder pain. The massage oil I use is Crystal Garden. It is 141mg THC & 50mg CBD oil. I also have a bottle of plain THC massage oil from SAVA called OMEdible 385. This also works for deep pain. To counteract the grassy smell – I use lemon essential oil.
trustnjc
If you have tried other modalities such as PT, other meds, all with no reilef, medical marijuana may be an option.
drpersaud
