Osteoarthritis is a common joint condition that causes cartilage to break down over time, leading to joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased flexibility.
In recent years, cannabis — aka marijuana or weed — has gained a lot of attention as a potential treatment for the symptoms and triggers of osteoarthritis, particularly chronic pain, inflammation, insomnia, and anxiety.
Historically, cannabis has been used to manage different types of chronic pain, and it’s now being explored more widely as a method to support osteoarthritis management. This is great news for people who are interested in exploring natural treatments for osteoarthritis.
Research on cannabis for osteoarthritis
Scientific studies looking at marijuana and osteoarthritis have had some promising results.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) — the primary cannabinoids in cannabis — have shown potential in reducing chronic pain from osteoarthritis.
One 2022 study suggested that CBD use was associated with improvements in pain, physical function, and sleep quality in people with arthritis, while another small 2024 trial involving 15 people with hand osteoarthritis found that pain, grip strength, and quality of life measures improved after the use of a CBD gel.
Some studies in animal and cell models show other potential benefits of cannabis for osteoarthritis.
Early studies suggest that terpenes — chemicals that occur naturally in cannabis — slow arthritis progression in animal models. The cannabinoid cannabigerol (CBG) has also been shown to help heal fractures and reduce the need for pain medications for osteoarthritis in animal studies.
More large-scale, human-based research is needed to fully understand the ideal dosing, long-term safety, and effectiveness of cannabis for osteoarthritis.
Using cannabis for osteoarthritis
Cannabis products might be a good option if you’re seeking relief from osteoarthritis symptoms, especially when conventional treatments aren’t working. However, it’s essential to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
Working with a healthcare professional is the best way to ensure you’re using it in a safe and effective way that’s tailored to your needs.
Benefits
There are several possible benefits of using medical cannabis for osteoarthritis, including:
- Reduces pain: Many people use THC and CBD for arthritis pain. These compounds may help you manage chronic joint pain and improve your quality of life.
- Lowers inflammation: CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may target the root causes of joint swelling.
- Supports sleep: Medical cannabis might support better sleep in people with osteoarthritis. Sleeplessness and insomnia are common with osteoarthritis and can worsen arthritic pain and inflammation.
Risks and side effects
Like all medications, using medical marijuana for osteoarthritis has potential risks and side effects, including:
- Cognitive impairment: THC may cause temporary changes in focus and memory.
- Dependency risks: Long-term use may lead to dependency or tolerance.
- Drowsiness: Cannabis can cause fatigue in some individuals.
- Drug interactions: Cannabis may interact with certain medications. It’s important to work with your healthcare team to avoid any negative interactions.
It’s also important to remember that research is still in its early stages, and there is some mixed evidence.
For example, one study found no benefit in using CBD as an additional treatment for arthritic pain when used alongside the pain medication paracetamol (acetaminophen). Another study also suggested that heavy cannabis use was associated with low bone density and an increased risk of fractures.
Is it legal?
Cannabis is still illegal at the federal level, but some states include arthritis as a qualifying condition under their medical marijuana programs.
Other states do not include arthritis as an accepted condition, but you may still qualify if you have osteoarthritis and a qualifying condition or symptom, such as chronic pain.
If you’re a caregiver for a child with a form of juvenile arthritis, your ability to get medical marijuana for them will depend on state regulations. Minors with severe arthritis will likely need a specialist and a second physician to assess their suitability for medical cannabis.
Best strains and products for osteoarthritis
Cannabis products for osteoarthritis are often aimed at symptom relief. You may want to choose cannabis that’s high in CBD and with low-to-moderate THC.
Your consumption method also matters when you use cannabis for arthritis:
- Oils: Many people use cannabis oil for arthritis, especially CBD oil. Oils can be consumed orally or massaged directly onto sore joints. CBD oil for arthritis may provide targeted pain relief.
- Creams: Using a cannabis cream for arthritis can provide some local pain relief. CBD cream for arthritis pain is a popular option. THC creams are also available. You might also see these products labeled as marijuana cream for arthritis.
- Salves: You may feel direct relief of joint pain with a cannabis salve for arthritis. Salves are usually used on smaller and more targeted areas than creams.
- Edibles: Consuming edibles, such as THC or CBD gummies for arthritis, may provide longer lasting symptom relief. Tinctures are another form of cannabis you consume orally that offer precise dosing.
- Transdermal patch: Transdermal patches are placed on the skin and offer a steady release of cannabinoids for several hours. They might provide pain relief for arthritis over longer periods.
- Vaporizing: Inhaling vaporized cannabis might provide faster relief for osteoarthritis joint pain.
Remember: what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. You’ll want to explore different products to find ones that suit your needs.
There are also only a few studies on types of cannabis for different conditions. Most recommendations are based on anecdotal reports and limited existing research, so they shouldn’t be taken as medical advice.
Strains (cultivars)
Generally, cannabis strains — also called cultivars — and products high in cannabinoids and terpenes like CBD, cannabigerol (CBG), beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, linalool, pinene, and limonene are ideal for their anti-inflammatory and potential bone healing effects. Moderate THC levels may also provide additional pain relief.
Consider the following strains for osteoarthritis:
- ACDC: High in CBD and ideal for reducing inflammation
- Harlequin: A balanced THC:CBD ratio for pain and relaxation
- Cannatonic: A strain known for its calming effects
- Godfather OG: Rich in pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory terpenes like myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, and limonene
- Death Star: Rich in beta-caryophyllene, which has anti-inflammatory effects
- Bubba Kush: Also rich in beta-caryophyllene, as well as limonene and myrcene
THC:CBD ratios
There have been few studies on specific cannabinoid ratios and their usefulness for osteoarthritis, but anecdotal reports suggest that CBD-rich or balanced THC:CBD ratios may be ideal for managing pain and inflammation with osteoarthritis:
- THC:CBD 1:3 or 1:2: A fairly balanced ratio with more CBD to address muscle soreness and skin inflammation
- THC:CBD 1:1: A fully balanced ratio, which may be helpful for managing pain, inflammation, and insomnia
Terpenes
Terpenes are chemicals in cannabis that contribute to its unique smell and taste. They combine with cannabinoids to enhance their therapeutic effect via what is called the entourage effect.
Certain terpenes may be helpful for managing arthritis symptoms and triggers such as pain, insomnia, and stress:
- Beta-caryophyllene: Offers anti-inflammatory properties
- Myrcene: Promotes relaxation and sleep
- Pinene: May improve focus and reduce inflammation
- Limonene: Can help reduce stress
- Linalool: Aids relaxation and sleep
Flavonoids
Cannabis also contains compounds called flavonoids that affect its smell and flavor. Flavonoids in cannabis also form part of the entourage effect:
- Quercetin and kaempferol: May reduce inflammation associated with osteoarthritis
- Luteolin, apigenin, and naringenin: Have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in various models of osteoarthritis
More about osteoarthritis
You’re more likely to develop osteoarthritis after a joint injury, if you have excess weight, or if you have family members with a history of osteoarthritis.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent joint pain and tenderness
- Stiffness, especially after inactivity
- Swelling and reduced flexibility
Osteoarthritis is usually diagnosed using physical exams, imaging tests, and lab work.
As of 2024, 53 million U.S. adults have arthritis, with osteoarthritis being the most common type. This number is expected to increase as the population ages, and arthritis is becoming a leading disability.
Although there’s no cure for arthritis, it’s possible to manage the condition and slow down its progress.
Other treatments for osteoarthritis
Although there is no medication that can cure osteoarthritis, there are several treatments, drugs, and lifestyle changes that can help you manage symptoms and slow its progression.
Traditional therapies
- Pain relievers: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy exercises are often prescribed to strengthen muscles and improve mobility
- Surgery: In more severe cases, joint replacement may be necessary
Natural and alternative therapies
- Acupuncture: May provide pain relief
- Glucosamine and chondroitin: Supplementing with these compounds may support joint health
- Anti-inflammatory diets: Eating patterns rich in foods containing omega-3s and antioxidants, such as salmon, mackerel, avocado, walnuts, hemp seeds, and turmeric or curcumin, might help support arthritis management
Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for osteoarthritis
Although research is limited, there’s some evidence that cannabis can support your symptom management for osteoarthritis.
It’s important to speak with your healthcare team to ensure cannabis fits into your treatment plan.
If you do want to use cannabis — including THC or CBD for arthritis pain or other symptoms — a medical card may give you access to tailored products and legal protections.
Frequently asked questions
Discover answers to your FAQs about cannabis for osteoarthritis.
What is the best CBD cream for arthritis joint pain?
The best CBD cream for arthritis is likely a high-strength product containing at least 600 mg of CBD. Consider buying from a licensed dispensary, where products are lab-tested for consistency and safety. CBD creams can be rubbed onto the skin over painful joints to provide targeted relief from arthritis pain and inflammation, though more research is needed to confirm their effects.
THC cream for arthritis is another option, with some people using either THC-rich or balanced THC:CBD skin creams. THC creams also provide anti-inflammatory effects and pain relief but won’t absorb beyond the skin or cause psychoactive effects.
Ultimately, it’s best to try different products to see which ones work well for you.
Is CBD good for arthritis?
Many people with arthritis use CBD or are interested in using it, especially to help with pain, sleep, and overall well-being. CBD may reduce the need for other pain medications, like opioids. Some research suggests topical CBD can improve arthritis pain, while other studies haven’t shown the same effect.
Overall, more quality research is needed to confirm that CBD is good for arthritis management, but there are some early positive findings.
What is the best medical marijuana for osteoarthritis?
The best type of medical marijuana for osteoarthritis will depend mostly on your personal preferences. Consider choosing a CBD-rich cannabis or opt for a balanced THC:CBD ratio. The terpenes beta-caryophyllene, limonene, linalool, and myrcene may also be helpful for arthritis because of their anti-inflammatory effects.
Resources
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- Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of the cannabis terpene myrcene in rat adjuvant monoarthritis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35887239/
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