We’ve all been there — shin splints flare up, tennis elbow threatens your afternoon match — so, you reach for a bottle of ibuprofen to temporarily mask the pain.
While that may have seemed like a sensible solution 20 years ago, recent studies have proven suspicions that ibuprofen and other over-the-counter and prescription pain medications have intense side effects on our bodies that may be doing more harm than good.
Liver and kidney damage are just a couple of the tradeoffs associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but the opioid epidemic presents an even greater concern.
With all the evidence out there to support how harmful these conventional pain relivers are, the question arises — how do I maintain an active lifestyle and manage pain without risk of dependency, overdose or damage to vital organs?
CBD may be the answer.
• What is it? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring compound found in the leaves and flower of the hemp plant. CBD is a non-psychoactive, non-addictive substance extracted from hemp that will not give you the ‘high’ associated with marijuana.
• What do I use if for? When you work out, play a round of golf, swim a few laps or take a walk around the neighborhood, you’re putting your body through stress. This stress allows our bodies to get stronger, build muscle and shed excess weight. However, when you push too hard, you may experience side effects like muscle fatigue or injury due to inflammation — that’s where CBD comes in.
• How does it work? CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. When CBD interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS) it creates a homeostasis throughout the body. As a result, pain and inflammation are reduced.
• Why should I use it? Unlike conventional NSAIDs and topical creams like Bengay and Icy Hot, CBD is all-natural and has unique properties that interact with your endocannabinoid system to facilitate relief.
While CBD products can be beneficial to athletes of all levels, particular products and dosage varies by individual. We carry a wide variety of creams, salves and oils designed specifically for joint and muscle pain. Come by the store today for a complimentary consultation to discuss what products are right for you and your fitness routine!
