CBD for Runners: Will It Help With Pain From Runner’s Knee?

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CBD (Cannabidiol) is hot on the rise these days. The amount of research surrounding CBD is constantly growing, and CBD for runners may be the next big thing.

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can indeed be a great treatment tool for runner’s knee. Though it won’t necessarily eliminate the problem all on its own, CBD is an effective supplement that can help runners manage pain and heal faster.

CBD is great for runners in part because much of the pain that you may feel while running is often not due to visible injuries, but rather painful inflammation around the joints. Your joints absorb a lot of impact when you run, so your body may try to compensate by sending an increased amount of blood to the area, but it can have an adverse effect and cause pain. By reducing inflammation with careful and deliberate CBD use, you may find it easier to manage pain and get back to what you love doing sooner (please note that in the case of sports-related injuries it’s always best to consult a professional).

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Brief overview on CBD for runners

CBD shows promise in helping runners manage knee pain and inflammation associated with runner’s knee. While it’s not a cure-all, CBD may offer several benefits for runners:

Anti-inflammatory properties: CBD can help reduce inflammation around the joints, which is often the cause of pain in runner’s knee.

Pain relief: Many runners report that CBD helps alleviate soreness and discomfort, particularly when applied topically to affected areas.

Recovery support: CBD may aid in post-run recovery by promoting better sleep and reducing overall muscle tension.

Natural alternative: For athletes who prefer natural remedies, CBD can be an alternative to over-the-counter pain medications.

Application Methods

Runners can use CBD in various forms:

  • Topical creams or balms: Applied directly to the knees before or after running.
  • Oils: Taken orally for overall inflammation management.
  • Gummies: A convenient way to consume CBD, especially for on-the-go runners.

Considerations

While CBD shows potential, it’s important to note:

  • CBD is not a substitute for proper training and injury prevention techniques.
  • It should be used in conjunction with other treatments like stretching, icing, and targeted exercises.
  • Consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your running regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or take other medications.

Remember, while CBD may help manage symptoms, it’s crucial to address the root cause of runner’s knee through appropriate strength training and running form adjustments.

Can CBD help reduce the symptoms of runners knee?

CBD shows promise in helping reduce symptoms of runner’s knee, primarily through its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Here’s how CBD may help:

Inflammation reduction: CBD can help decrease inflammation around the knee joint, which is often the primary cause of pain in runner’s knee.

Pain management: Many runners report that CBD helps alleviate soreness and discomfort associated with runner’s knee.

Recovery support: CBD may aid in post-run recovery by promoting better sleep and reducing overall muscle tension.

How long does it take to see results from using CBD for runners' knees?

The time it takes to see results from using CBD for runners’ knees can vary depending on several factors, including the method of application and individual physiology. Here’s what you can expect:

Topical application: When using CBD creams, balms, or roll-on sticks directly on the knee area, some runners report feeling relief within minutes.

Sublingual Application: When taking CBD sublingually (under the tongue) using tinctures or oils, effects can typically be felt within 15-30 minutes. The onset is faster than oral ingestion due to direct absorption into the bloodstream through the sublingual glands. This method offers a balance of relatively quick onset and sustained effects, making it popular among runners seeking both immediate and long-term benefits.

Oral consumption: When ingesting CBD through capsules or gummies, it typically takes one to two hours to feel the effects.

Long-term benefits: Some runners have reported experiencing positive effects on their knee pain and overall recovery after using CBD for about a month. This suggests that while some immediate relief may be possible, the full benefits of CBD for runners’ knees may take several weeks to manifest.

It’s important to note that individual responses to CBD can vary, and what works quickly for one person may take longer for another. Additionally, CBD should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to managing runner’s knee, including proper training, stretching, and addressing any underlying biomechanical issues.

Remember that while CBD shows promise for managing pain and inflammation associated with runner’s knee, more sport-specific research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects on athletic performance and recovery.

What dosage of CBD is recommended for runners experiencing knee pain?

Based on the available information, the recommended CBD dosage for runners experiencing knee pain can vary depending on several factors. Here’s a general guideline:

Starting dose: Begin with a low dose of 5-20 mg per day. This allows you to assess your body’s response and gradually increase if needed.

For pain and Inflammation management: Some sources suggest that pain patients may need at least 40 mg, but this can vary based on the severity of the knee injury.

Topical application: For localized knee pain, using CBD creams or balms directly on the affected area can be effective, with dosage depending on the product concentration.

The “start low and go slow” approach is recommended. Gradually increase the dose over time until you find the right balance for your symptoms. For runners specifically, it may be beneficial to combine oral CBD consumption with topical application for targeted relief.

Man running with support tape wrapped around his knee.

What is the best way to apply CBD for maximum relief on runners' knees?

For maximum relief on runners’ knees, the best way to apply CBD is through topical application. Here are some effective methods:

CBD creams or balms: Apply directly to the affected knee area, massaging gently until fully absorbed. These products often combine CBD with other pain-relieving ingredients for enhanced effectiveness.

CBD roll-on sticks: These are convenient for on-the-go application. Simply uncap, shake, and roll generously over the knee area up to four times a day.

For optimal results:

  1. Clean and dry the skin before application to ensure better absorption.
  2. Apply before and after runs to prepare muscles and reduce post-run soreness.
  3. Use consistently, as regular applications yield the best long-term pain relief.
  4. Combine with gentle stretching to increase flexibility and reduce tension in the affected area.

Is it better to take CBD before or after a run?

For optimal results, we recommend a two-pronged approach to using CBD for running:

Before your run:

Use topical CBD products such as creams, balms, or roll-ons. Apply these directly to areas prone to discomfort or previous injuries, like your knees, ankles, or lower back. This targeted application can help:

  • Provide localized pain relief
  • Reduce inflammation in specific areas
  • Improve flexibility and range of motion
  • Decrease pre-run muscle tension

Apply the topical CBD product about 15-30 minutes before your run to allow for absorption.

After your run:

Use ingestible CBD products like oils, capsules, or gummies. Taking CBD orally after your run can offer systemic benefits such as:

  • Overall inflammation reduction throughout the body
  • Enhanced recovery and reduced muscle soreness
  • Improved sleep quality, which is crucial for recovery
  • Potential mood improvement and stress reduction

Take your chosen ingestible CBD product within 30 minutes to an hour after your run for best results.

This combined approach of topical pre-run and ingestible post-run CBD use provides a more holistic treatment. It addresses both localized concerns before exercise and supports overall recovery afterward, potentially leading to improved performance and faster recovery times.

Remember to start with low doses and adjust as needed, and always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

Conclusion

CBD presents itself as a promising supplementary tool for runners, particularly in managing inflammation and pain associated with conditions like runner’s knee.

While it’s not a standalone cure, its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties can aid in recovery, improve sleep, and potentially enhance performance. Remember to prioritize proper training, injury prevention, and consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating CBD into your regimen.

By strategically combining topical and ingestible CBD products, runners can harness its potential benefits to achieve a more holistic and effective approach to their overall well-being and athletic performance.

Currently, CBD is legal but quite under-regulated by the FDA. For that reason, consumer reviews and third-party testing companies have been essential to the production and distribution of safe, reliable products. 

For runners or any persons in need of CBD benefits, make sure to source your CBD from a reputable, distinguished company. If you aren’t sure where to start, we’ve compiled a list of the most trustworthy brands on the market. We’ve tried all of them ourselves and can recommend based on personal experience. Access our database for free here

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Josh Murdoch

I was born with Cystic Fibrosis, and although it is incurable, cannabinoids have been allowing me to live my life as a healthy adult now for years. For that reason, I’ve dedicated my career to spreading the good news about cannabinoids. Currently, I work for a cannabis distribution company called Humble Cannabis Solutions which operates in California. Previously, I worked on two cannabis farms in northern California, one of which was located in the famous Humboldt County. I’ve also managed a medical cannabis delivery service in Marin County, California. I created CBD Facilitator to share what I’ve learned, and to recommend the best products that I have found in this chaotic market.

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    Our Mission

    Our goal is to educate you on all things CBD, enabling you to navigate this vast unregulated industry like a pro. We know all too well how overwhelming it can be to find trustworthy brands in this crowded market, so we’re here to help!

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      Topical Cream

      Perfect for Localized Pain and Inflammation Relief!

      Sun Grown & Slow Cured
      NO tobacco. NO additives. NO junk.