Key takeaways
- CBD may hold important benefits for people with inflammation of the feet or plantar fasciitis.
- CBD exhibits pain-relieving effects which may be useful for people with plantar fasciitis.
- CBD products like oils, transdermal patches were reported in research to provide relief to people suffering with joint pain and inflammation.
It is quite impossible to talk about CBD without making reference to its anti-inflammatory, and pain relieving properties. This is because CBD acts on several receptors that may be directly involved in these conditions. Asides interacting with the endocannabinoid receptors, CBD also acts on other receptors and neurotransmitters thereby supporting its potential role as a possible medicine. People who have used CBD can attest to these facts. In this article, we would look at the possible roles of CBD in plantar fasciitis.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. This inflammation can cause intense heel pain, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
The plantar fascia plays a crucial role in supporting the arch of the foot and absorbing shock while walking. When excessive stress is placed on the plantar fascia, tiny tears can occur, leading to irritation and inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis is often associated with factors such as overuse, improper footwear, flat feet, high arches, obesity, or tight calf muscles. It is a common cause of heel pain and discomfort, especially among individuals who spend long hours on their feet or engage in activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet.
What are the causes of plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is typically caused by excessive strain on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and irritation. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Overuse or Repetitive Stress: Engaging in activities that involve prolonged standing, walking, or running on hard surfaces can strain the plantar fascia over time.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or poor arch support can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
- Biomechanical Issues: Abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet (pronation) or high arches, can increase stress on the plantar fascia.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Limited flexibility in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can contribute to increased strain on the plantar fascia.
- Obesity: Excess body weight places additional stress on the feet, particularly the plantar fascia.
- Age: Plantar fasciitis is more common in middle-aged individuals, but it can affect people of all ages.
- Occupational Factors: Jobs that involve long hours of standing or walking, especially on hard surfaces, may increase the risk.
- Certain Activities: Activities that involve repetitive impact on the feet, such as running or ballet dancing, can contribute to plantar fasciitis.
- Inadequate Foot Support: Wearing shoes with poor arch support or walking barefoot on hard surfaces can strain the plantar fascia.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel, typically near the bottom and front of the heel bone. The pain is often most noticeable when taking the first steps in the morning or after a period of rest. Common symptoms include:
- Heel Pain
- Pain After Rest
- Increased Pain with Activity
- Stiffness
- Tenderness
- Discomfort Along the Arch
How may CBD help people with plantar fasciitis?
While research on the specific benefits of CBD for plantar fasciitis is limited, some potential mechanisms suggest how CBD may offer relief for symptoms associated with the condition. Here are a few ways in which CBD could be beneficial:
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory effects, and plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia. By reducing inflammation, CBD may help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the condition.
- Pain Relief:
CBD has analgesic (pain-relieving) properties that may contribute to managing the heel pain experienced in plantar fasciitis. It may modulate pain signals, providing relief to individuals with the condition.
- Muscle Relaxation:
CBD's muscle-relaxing effects could be beneficial for individuals with tight calf muscles, a common contributing factor to plantar fasciitis.
- Improved Sleep Quality:
If plantar fasciitis pain disrupts sleep, CBD's potential to improve sleep quality might indirectly benefit individuals by promoting better rest.
- Anxiolytic Effects:
For those experiencing anxiety or stress related to chronic pain, CBD's anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects may offer a sense of calm and relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CBD be effective for plantar fasciitis symptoms?
Some people report relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms using CBD, based on personal experiences and initial research indicating potential benefits like pain and inflammation reduction. However, more comprehensive studies are necessary to fully grasp CBD's effectiveness and safety for plantar fasciitis.
Is CBD oil useful for reducing foot inflammation?
Indeed, research suggests that CBD oil may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in the reduction of foot inflammation. This quality could be beneficial for conditions such as plantar fasciitis or arthritis.
Is it recommended to apply CBD oil directly on the feet?
While many CBD oils are meant for oral or sublingual use, some formulations like creams or lotions are designed for topical application. The choice between oral and topical CBD usage depends on personal preference and the specific condition being addressed, such as plantar fasciitis.
Want to Learn More?
- Why Flavored CBD Is Low Quality
- Nesas Hemp—the first to receive the Exclusive Tested Safe Seal.
- Foods That Enhance CBDa
- How To Read A Certificate Of Analysis
- Can CBD Oil Help With Candida?
Sources
Hammell DC, Zhang LP, Ma F, Abshire SM, McIlwrath SL, Stinchcomb AL, Westlund KN. Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis. Eur J Pain. 2016 Jul;20(6):936-48. doi: 10.1002/ejp.818. Epub 2015 Oct 30. PMID: 26517407; PMCID: PMC4851925.
Frane N, Stapleton E, Iturriaga C, Ganz M, Rasquinha V, Duarte R. Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study. J Cannabis Res. 2022 Aug 24;4(1):47. doi: 10.1186/s42238-022-00154-9. PMID: 35999581; PMCID: PMC9400326.
Frane N, Stapleton E, Iturriaga C, Ganz M, Rasquinha V, Duarte R. Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study. J Cannabis Res. 2022 Aug 24;4(1):47. doi: 10.1186/s42238-022-00154-9. PMID: 35999581; PMCID: PMC9400326.
Hall N, James B, Bhuiyan MAN, Crane E, Falgout C, Murnane KS. Topical cannabidiol is well tolerated in individuals with a history of elite physical performance and chronic lower extremity pain. J Cannabis Res. 2023 Mar 30;5(1):11. doi: 10.1186/s42238-023-00179-8. PMID: 36991501; PMCID: PMC10061782.