The Best CBD Products for Fibromyalgia Pain: Top Picks and Reviews

Living with fibromyalgia can be a daily struggle, especially when it comes to managing chronic pain. If you're searching for relief, you may have heard about CBD as a potential solution. Many people are turning to CBD products to help ease their fibromyalgia symptoms, but with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best CBD for fibromyalgia pain. You're not alone in this journey, and we're here to help guide you through the maze of choices.

*Disclaimer* 

We cannot discuss medical claims with regards to CBD. We regularly get asked by our customers so try to provide the best information we can whilst navigating this strict landscape that we fully support. We link to and quote from studies below, but it is vital to do your own research and to keep an eye out for recent studies. 

In this article, we'll explore what's considered the best form of CBD for fibromyalgia and which CBD products might work best for you. We'll take a look at various options, including topical CBD for fibromyalgia and the best CBD oil strength for fibro amongst other things.

Lastly you'll also learn how to choose the right CBD product for your needs and better understand the relationship between CBD and fibromyalgia. By the end, you'll have a clearer picture of the top CBD products to choose from and find a path that could potentially help manage your fibromyalgia pain as part of a broader management regime.

Understanding Fibromyalgia and CBD

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that affects 2% to 8% of the population 1. If you're living with fibromyalgia, you might experience widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep disruptions 1. Women are typically more commonly affected than men 1. 

The exact cause of fibromyalgia remains unknown, but several factors may contribute to its development, including genetics, traumatic life events, or injuries 2. What makes fibromyalgia particularly challenging is that there's no known cure, and diagnosis can be complicated due to varying diagnostic criteria and symptom overlap with other conditions 1.

R Bailey

I work as a consultant in the CBD and medical cannabis industry whilst also being a medical cannabis patient myself for my Fibromyalgia. I have been in the industry since 2018, and a patient since 2020. Along my journey I have provided educational talks to support groups for fibro across south west Wales, whilst also working in CBD Labs developing products specifically for fibro and other issues.  

The Endocannabinoid System and Fibromyalgia

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a crucial role in understanding how CBD might help with fibromyalgia. The ECS regulates various bodily processes, including sleep, appetite, and pain responses 2.

One theory suggests that fibromyalgia might be related to a deficiency in the endocannabinoid system, known as Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) 2. This theory proposes that a decreased function of the ECS could lead to increased pain levels and other symptoms associated with fibromyalgia.

CBD interacts with the ECS through two main receptors:

CB1 receptors: Found primarily in the central nervous system, these receptors help calm down nerve signals that contribute to pain perception 2.

CB2 receptors: Located on peripheral inflammatory cells, these receptors play a role in modulating immune responses and pain signaling 2.

By interacting with these receptors, CBD may help regulate the ECS and potentially reduce fibromyalgia-related problems 2. However, it's important to remember that while this theory is promising, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between the ECS, CBD, and fibromyalgia.

For more information and insight into the experiences of people with fibromyalgia using CBD, you can check out an interview with a member of a local Fibromyalgia support group here.

CBD Topicals for Targeted Relief

If you're dealing with localized pain, CBD topicals like creams and ointments can be incredibly effective. You can apply these directly to your pain points and muscles to help alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation 1. Many fibromyalgia patients appreciate the fast-acting nature of topical CBD products, with some experiencing almost immediate relief 1.

For a luxurious and relaxing experience, you might want to try adding CBD body oil to your bath. Using 6-10 pumps of body oil and soaking for at least 30 minutes can lead to increased relaxation and pain relief 1.

CBD Capsules and Edibles

CBD Vapes for Fast-Acting Relief

While not as common, CBD vapes are another option for fast-acting relief. Vaping CBD allows for quick absorption into your bloodstream, potentially providing rapid relief from pain and anxiety 4. However, it's important to note that vaping may not be suitable for everyone, and you should consult with your healthcare provider before trying this method.

Remember, CBD affects everyone differently. What works for one person might not work for another. It's crucial to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it until you find the right amount for your needs. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you're taking other medications 5.

For more insights into using CBD for fibromyalgia, you might find it helpful to read about others' experiences. An interview with a member of a local Fibromyalgia support group provides valuable first-hand information about using CBD for symptom management and can be read HERE.

How to Choose the Right CBD Product for Fibromyalgia

When you're looking for the best CBD for fibromyalgia pain, it's crucial to make an informed decision. Here's how you can choose the right CBD product to help manage your symptoms:

Consider CBD Type and Potency

The type of CBD you choose can significantly impact its effectiveness. Organic full-spectrum CBD oil is often recommended as the best option for managing fibromyalgia symptoms. This is because full-spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC. These compounds work together in what's known as the "entourage effect," potentially enhancing the oil's therapeutic benefits 1.

When it comes to potency, it's essential to find a balance that works for you. CBD products come in various strengths, and what works for one person might not work for another. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase it until you find the right amount for your needs 4.

Look for Third-Party Lab Testing

One of the most critical factors in choosing a CBD product is ensuring its quality and safety. Always look for products that have undergone third-party lab testing. These tests assess everything from cannabinoid composition to the absence of contaminants, providing assurance of safety and potency 5.

Reputable brands will be transparent about their testing results, often making them available online or in stores. If a company doesn't provide these results, consider it a red flag and look elsewhere 5.

Evaluate Additional Ingredients

CBD products often contain additional ingredients that can affect their taste, effectiveness, and potential side effects. Common carrier oils include grapeseed oil, coconut oil, and MCT oil. These oils help stabilize the CBD and make it easier for your body to absorb 2.

Some products may also contain added flavors or sweeteners to mask the earthy taste of hemp. If you're sensitive to certain ingredients or prefer a more natural product, be sure to carefully read the ingredient list 2.

Consider Your Preferred Consumption Method

CBD comes in various forms, each with its own advantages:

CBD Oil: This is often taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption.Edibles: These include gummies and capsules, offering a convenient and discreet way to consume CBD.

Topicals: Creams and balms can be applied directly to painful areas for targeted relief.

Vapes: While not suitable for everyone, vaping CBD can provide quick relief 6.

Choose a method that fits your lifestyle and preferences. For example, if you need quick relief, a sublingual oil or vape might be best. If you prefer a more gradual effect throughout the day, edibles could be a good choice.

Remember, while CBD shows promise in managing fibromyalgia symptoms, more research is needed to fully understand its effects. A 2015 review found that seven out of eleven studies suggested CBD could relieve pain, but many of these studies had limitations such as small participant numbers or lack of control groups 7. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you're taking other medications.

For more insights into using CBD for fibromyalgia, you might find it helpful to read about others' experiences. An interview with a member of a local Fibromyalgia support group provides valuable first-hand information about using CBD for symptom management.

Conclusion

CBD has shown promise in managing fibromyalgia symptoms, offering potential relief for those struggling with chronic pain, sleep issues, and mood disturbances when used as part of a broader management regime. The various CBD products discussed, from full-spectrum CBD oils to topicals and edibles, provide options to suit different needs and preferences.

Remember, what works best can vary from person to person, so it's crucial to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it to find the right amount for your needs.

While more research is needed to fully understand CBD's effects on fibromyalgia, many people have found it helpful in their symptom management journey. To get more information and insight into real-life experiences with CBD for fibromyalgia, you might want to check out an interview with a member of a local Fibromyalgia support group, available here.

As always, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you're taking other medications.

CBD Products For Fibromyalgia FAQ

References

[1] - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10295750/
[2] - https://savagecabbage.co.uk/can-i-use-cbd-for-fibromyalgia/
[3] - https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-fibromyalgia
[4] - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321501
[5] - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33004171/
[6] - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319475
[7] - https://prymhealth.com/2024/02/19/taking-cbd-for-fibromyalgia/

Written by Rowan Bailey

CBD lab geek, medical cannabis patient and consultant.