CBD for Neck and Shoulder Pain: How it Works

By: Katelyn Manuel

PUBLISHED: December 6, 2024 UPDATED: December 20, 2024

One R&R CBD sleep soft gel and one pain roll-on rest on a white surface

Neck and shoulder pain are common problems that can affect one's well-being and daily activities. Whether it's due to poor posture, injury, or chronic conditions, this kind of discomfort can limit movement and impact your ability to work, sleep, and enjoy life.

The good news is that apart from conventional OTC prescriptions, there’s a new way to feel better. That new way is CBD.

Derived from hemp, CBD has become popular for its potential to manage various types of pain, including neck and shoulder discomfort. Unlike traditional pain medications, CBD offers a more holistic approach to relief without the risk of addiction or severe side effects.

Key Takeaways

CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), potentially reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and relaxing muscles.
Full-spectrum CBD options may provide added benefits through the "entourage effect."
Consistent use and pairing with a holistic wellness routine can maximize CBD's effectiveness.

What Is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally occurring compound in cannabis. It is one of over 100 cannabinoids present in the plant, but unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” commonly associated with cannabis use. This makes it ideal for those seeking therapeutic benefits without mind-altering effects.

CBD is typically extracted from hemp, a variety of the cannabis plant that contains less than 0.3% THC. Its extraction results in a versatile compound that can be used in a wide range of products, including oils, creams, capsules, edibles, and topicals.

What Causes Pain in My Neck and Shoulders?

Neck and shoulder pain can be occasioned by many factors, the most common being muscle strain from repetitive motions, poor posture due to long hours at a desk or frequent smartphone use, and chronic conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia.

These issues often result in persistent discomfort, reduced mobility, and lower productivity.

When your neck and shoulders are painful, simple tasks like checking your blind spot while driving, reaching for items on high shelves or even enjoying a restful night's sleep can become difficult. The discomfort can influence your mood, sap your energy, and lower your overall quality of life.

Is CBD Good for Neck Pain?

Traditional pain management methods sometimes have unwanted side effects or risks of dependency. Consequently, many people opt for natural alternatives like CBD for relief without compromising long-term health.

CBD's anti-inflammatory properties show promise in tackling neck and shoulder pain. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD helps reduce inflammation, ease muscle tension, and adjust pain signals. This way, CBD alleviates the source of your discomfort instead of merely masking symptoms.

You have several product options When considering CBD for neck and shoulder pain. Topical creams and balms can be applied directly to the affected area for localized relief.

On the other hand, oral CBD products such as tinctures or capsules provide systemic benefits that may address inflammation throughout the body.

CBD Oil for Neck Pain

Neck pain is often caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or conditions such as arthritis or cervical spondylosis. CBD oil has emerged as a promising option for individuals seeking natural relief due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

CBD oil interacts with the ECS, which, among other things, regulates pain and inflammation. Through its indirect influence on CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD may help:

Reduce Inflammation: Chronic neck pain often stems from inflammation in muscles or joints. CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may alleviate swelling and promote healing.
Relieve Muscle Tension: CBD oil may soothe tight or strained muscles due to poor posture or stress.
Modulate Pain Signals: CBD can influence how the nervous system perceives pain, reducing its intensity and improving comfort.

How Does CBD Work for Pain Relief?

CBD, like other cannabinoids, influences the ECS—a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate various physiological processes, including pain sensation. CBD attaches to various receptors in your body, including the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

This sets off a series of effects that may ease pain and discomfort. For example, CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties contribute to reducing swelling and irritation in affected areas. It eases the inflammatory response, potentially reducing pressure on nerves and tissues, which can lead to decreased pain levels.

CBD also has pain-killing properties that alter how the brain perceives pain signals. This can result in less pain, making it easier to manage discomfort in your neck and shoulders. This makes CBD a potential remedy for muscle pain.

Moreover, CBD’s muscle-relaxing effect can help with neck and shoulder pain caused by tension or spasms. It may help loosen tight muscles, improve flexibility and range of motion in the affected areas, and reduce pain.

CBD's natural approach to pain relief makes it an excellent option for managing neck and shoulder discomfort. Its ability to address inflammation, alter pain perception, and relax muscles offers a novel strategy for tackling pain from multiple angles.

What’s more, with CBD, you might notice improvements in both acute and chronic pain conditions. That’s because its long-term use can help manage ongoing discomfort, while its quick-acting properties can relieve sudden flare-ups.

How to Use CBD for Neck Pain

CBD has become a go-to option for many people with various types of pain. The beauty of CBD is that it is flexible depending on one’s needs and preferences. Here’s how to use CBD effectively to manage neck pain:

1. Topical Application for Targeted Relief

Topical CBD products, such as oils, creams, or balms, are excellent for localized pain relief. These products allow CBD to interact with receptors in the skin, providing targeted benefits. Our full-spectrum CBD Pain Cream is an effective solution to reduce pain and inflammation.

This Cream is available in full- and broad-spectrum options and comes in three strength levels. Once you’ve experienced the benefits of our Regular-Strength Cream, you can graduate to our Extra- and Maximum-Strength options to experience even more effective relief.*

How to Apply: Massage a small amount of CBD oil or cream directly onto the neck, focusing on areas with the most pain or tension.
When to Apply: Use as needed throughout the day, particularly after strenuous activities, prolonged desk work, or before bed.
Tips for Effectiveness: Clean the affected area beforehand to enhance absorption. Combine with a gentle massage to boost circulation and muscle relaxation.

2. Sublingual Use for Systemic Support

Sublingual CBD oils or tinctures are absorbed under the tongue and enter the bloodstream quickly, providing more widespread pain relief and relaxation. These products are for those who prefer a ‘touch-and-go’ approach to taking CBD.

Our Tinctures are available in full- and broad-spectrum options (for users who want a THC-free experience). Depending on your preference, you can choose between the Unflavored or Fresh Mint variants.

Versatile, easy to dose, and fast-acting, our potent Tinctures set you on the right track toward improved sleep, a calmer disposition, and feeling better. Effective as a pain management tool, a de-stressor, and a sleep aid, their multifunctional formula can also boost your wellness routine, especially when taken consistently, since CBD has powerful cumulative effects.

How to Use: Place a few drops of CBD Tincture under your tongue and hold it there for 30–60 seconds before swallowing.
When to Use: Take CBD sublingually in the morning to prepare for a pain-free day or at night to relax and manage discomfort while sleeping.
Dosage Tips: Start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.

Follow the product’s dosage guidelines and consult a healthcare professional if unsure.

3. CBD Gummies and Softgels for Long-Lasting Relief

Capsules and edibles offer a convenient way to consume CBD and provide longer-lasting effects, but they take longer to kick in compared to other methods. That’s because edibles go through the digestive tract, where they are digested before being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Most people prefer CBD gummies because they are convenient. They are easy to carry around and consume anywhere. Our Multifunctional CBD Gummies are formulated to improve wellness with CBD and provide relief from symptoms associated with pain, anxiety, and sleep issues.

Moreover, you can easily incorporate these Gummies into your daily wellness regimen since consistent CBD dosing yields the best results. Enjoy our Gummies daily as a tasty treat that helps tackle whatever issues are holding you back.*

How to Use: Take 1-2 Gummies per day.
When to Use: Use as part of your daily wellness routine or before activities that might exacerbate neck pain.
Note: Be mindful of the slower onset time (30–60 minutes), and plan accordingly.

You can also not go wrong with our Softgel offerings. These products are formulated to release slowly and consistently. Our full-spectrum Multifunctional CBD Softgels are available in three potency levels to ensure restful nights and ongoing relief from pain and stress.*

But if you want a THC-free experience, we also offer this broad-spectrum Multifunctional CBD Softgel. When used as part of a daily routine, these Softgels can change your life, with benefits starting as little as 5 minutes after each dose.

4. CBD in Combination with Other Practices

To maximize the benefits of CBD, incorporate it into a holistic pain management routine. This could include:

Hot/Cold Therapy: Apply a heating pad or ice pack before or after using CBD to relieve inflammation or muscle tension.
Stretching and Exercise: Engage in gentle neck stretches and strengthening exercises to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.
Ergonomic Adjustments: Make workplace and lifestyle changes, such as using a supportive chair or adjusting screen height, to prevent recurring neck pain.
Stress Management: Combine CBD with mindfulness or yoga to reduce tension, a common contributor to neck pain.

Which CBD Products Are Best for Relieving Neck and Shoulder Pain?

A man massages a woman's neck and forehead to provide relief from pain

Finding the right CBD for neck and shoulder pain involves thinking about your specific needs and preferences. Oral CBD products like Tinctures and Gummies provide systemic relief from inflammation throughout the body. They are ideal for chronic pain or widespread discomfort.

CBD Creams and Roll-ons are excellent if you want to target specific areas. They offer relief when applied directly to sore neck and shoulder areas. They absorb through the skin, interacting with local cannabinoid receptors to reduce pain and inflammation.

CBD products are generally classified as full-spectrum or broad-spectrum. Full-spectrum products include a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes that might enhance pain-relieving effects. This synergy, often called the "entourage effect," could provide more holistic relief for neck and shoulder discomfort.

Quality is critical when using CBD products. Therefore, look for products that have gone through rigorous third-party testing to confirm purity and potency. These tests check the CBD content and screen for contaminants to ensure the product's safety and effectiveness.

The CBD concentration in your chosen product also matters. While higher potencies might offer stronger relief, starting with a lower dose allows you to gauge how your body responds. You can gradually increase the amount until you find what works best for your pain.

Lastly, ease of use is worth considering. Creams and balms offer quick, targeted application, while tinctures allow for precise dosing. Gummies provide a convenient, pre-measured dose and easily fit into your daily routine.

Getting the Most Out of CBD for Neck and Shoulder Pain

To effectively use CBD, begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find relief. For oral products, start with 5-10mg of CBD twice a day, adjusting as necessary. Topical applications are more effective when massaged into the affected area 2-3 times daily.

Warm the CBD creams or balms between your hands before applying. This increases absorption and allows deeper penetration into sore muscles. Use circular motions to gently massage the product, focusing on areas of tension or discomfort.

Consistency is the key to harnessing CBD’s therapeutic benefits. Make it a part of your daily routine—apply a topical after your morning shower or take a tincture before bed. Regular use allows CBD to build up in your system, thus providing sustained relief over time.

Combine CBD with other practices to enhance its effects. Gentle stretching exercises can help loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility in the neck and shoulders. Mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation may also reduce tension and promote relaxation.

Also, be proactive. Use CBD before engaging in activities that might strain your neck and shoulders. This approach may help prevent pain and tension from building up throughout the day.

It also helps to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your body's natural healing processes. Proper nutrition and hydration can enhance CBD's anti-inflammatory effects and promote overall wellness.

Finally, keep a journal to track your CBD usage and pain levels. This helps you identify patterns and adjust your routine for optimal results. Note any changes in pain intensity, range of motion, and overall comfort to gauge the effectiveness of your CBD regimen.

Conclusion

CBD provides a natural way to handle neck and shoulder pain, offering relief without the harsh side effects that often come with traditional medications. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make it an exciting option for those looking for alternative ways to manage pain.

However, when selecting CBD products for pain, choose companies that focus on third-party testing, use organic hemp, and offer full-spectrum formulations to get the most benefits.

Moreover, establishing a consistent CBD routine can boost its effectiveness. Regular usage allows the compound to accumulate in your system, leading to more lasting relief. Begin with a low dose and gradually increase until you find the right amount for your needs.

When all’s said and done, remember that everyone's experience with CBD is different. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust your usage accordingly. With the right product and approach, CBD can become a helpful tool in your journey toward finding relief from neck and shoulder pain.

R&R CBD offers high-quality, third-party-tested products designed to address pain effectively. Our selection of full-spectrum formulations ensures you receive the potential benefits of CBD's anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Explore our collection of CBD products today to find a solution that fits your needs for relief and better well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is CBD, and How Does it Help with Pain?

CBD is a compound derived from hemp that interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system. It helps reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and relax muscles.

Is CBD Safe for Managing Neck and Shoulder Pain?

Yes, CBD is generally considered safe, with minimal side effects. However, it’s important to start with a low dose and consult a healthcare professional, especially if you are on other medications.