Newton taught us that a body in motion stays in motion, and no one understands this principle better than athletes who must work continuously to perform at their best. Minor injuries like twists, sprains, and sore muscles are all too common among those in constant motion, so reducing downtime becomes the name of the game.

When minor injuries occur, athletes are turning to CBD Oils and CBD Topicals, which have been shown to help reduce downtime without the long-term risks posed by over-the-counter pain relievers. By interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors in the body that influences pain perception and inflammation, CBD can help alleviate inflammation and pain, as well as promote a sense of calm. This approach can help provide not only a faster recovery, but better health overall. Unlike its counterpart THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not induce a "high," making it an attractive option for athletes seeking therapeutic benefits without psychoactive effects.

PAIN RELIEF: One of the primary reasons athletes turn to CBD is its potential to alleviate pain. CBD interacts with receptors in the ECS, influencing neurotransmitter activity and reducing inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes dealing with chronic pain, injuries, or post-exercise soreness.

INFLAMMATION REDUCTION: Intense physical activity often leads to inflammation, a natural response that can become problematic if not properly managed. CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties by modulating immune responses, potentially aiding in the reduction of exercise-induced inflammation.

ENHANCED RECOVERY: Optimal recovery is essential for athletes to maintain peak performance. CBD may contribute to better sleep quality, muscle relaxation, and reduced anxiety, promoting overall recovery. By addressing both physical and mental aspects of recovery, athletes can bounce back faster and stay on top of their game.

SRESS AND ANXIETY MANAGEMENT: Competitive sports can bring about high levels of stress and anxiety. CBD interacts with receptors in the brain associated with mood regulation, potentially helping athletes manage stress and anxiety without the side effects often associated with traditional medications.

NON-ADDICTIVE ALTERNATIVE: In contrast to opioid-based pain medications, CBD is not addictive. The opioid epidemic has raised concerns about the long-term use of addictive painkillers in sports. CBD offers a promising alternative without the risk of dependence or withdrawal.

It’s important to note that only minor injuries like sprained ankles and pulled muscles should be treated with CBD and other at-home remedies. If you are injured and you’re unsure of how severe the injury is, consult with your doctor. If you see signs of more severe injuries like fractures and dislocations, consult your healthcare provider immediately.  

For minor injuries, the tried and true formula commonly referred to as RICE coupled with CBD offers a comprehensive approach to recovery.

REST is necessary to give your body time to heal. Avoid the temptation to play through the pain, and get off your feet to rest immediately.

ICE the injury thoroughly by either submerging the area in cold water or by applying ice packs to the injured area. Ice for 15 minutes at a time several times a day. The ice will reduce the swelling, shrink torn blood vessels and numb the pain.

COMPRESS the area with a cold bandage or towel to limit the swelling and speed up the healing process.

ELEVATE the injured area above the heart to allow gravity to drain fluid from the area and reduce swelling. For an ankle sprain, use pillows to prop up the injured area above the heart. For an injured hand or arm, hold it above the chest as much as possible.

Combining the RICE treatment with CBD taken orally or topically has been shown to help to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote a sense of calm. Additionally, studies have shown that after 48 hours of RICE treatment, alternating hot and cold therapy leads to best results. Soaking the injury in warm water stimulates blood flow and allows nutrients and oxygen to reach the area to initiate healing. Alternating between hot and cold soaks can speed up the recovery process as the blood vessels will react by growing and shrinking. The change in blood movement can relieve swelling and inflammation, as well as increase range of motion. 

As CBD continues to gain recognition for its potential therapeutic benefits, athletes are increasingly turning to this natural remedy for pain relief and recovery. While research on CBD in sports is still evolving, the anecdotal evidence and early studies suggest that it holds promise as a valuable addition to athletes' wellness regimens. As with any supplement, athletes should consult with healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective integration into their training and recovery plans.