In recent years, the use of cannabidiol (CBD) has surged in popularity as a natural remedy for various ailments, ranging from anxiety and pain to insomnia and inflammation. As our understanding of CBD’s potential benefits continues to evolve, many doctors of chiropractic are exploring ways to incorporate this compound into their treatment offerings. By combining the principles of chiropractic care with CBD’s therapeutic properties, practitioners can offer patients a more comprehensive approach to holistic wellness.
A chiropractic complement
Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the body’s structure — particularly the spine — and its function. DCs use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to properly align the body’s musculoskeletal structure, aiming to alleviate pain, improve function and support the body’s ability to heal itself. CBD, on the other hand, interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain sensation, mood, appetite and inflammation.1
When integrated thoughtfully, CBD can complement chiropractic treatments by addressing underlying issues, such as inflammation and pain, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the care provided. Here are several ways DCs can incorporate CBD into their clinics:
1. Educational workshops and resources: DCs can educate patients about the potential benefits of CBD through workshops, informational materials and one-on-one consultations. By providing evidence-based information about CBD’s mechanisms of action and its potential therapeutic applications, DCs can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and wellness.
2. CBD topicals for pain relief: CBD-infused topical products, such as creams, lotions and salves, can be used to target localized pain and inflammation. According to the National Institutes of Health, “CBD is non-psychoactive but exerts a number of beneficial pharmacological effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.”2 DCs can recommend these products to patients suffering from conditions, such as arthritis, muscle strains or sports injuries. When applied directly to the skin over affected areas, CBD topicals can provide targeted relief without the psychoactive effects associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another compound found in cannabis.
3. CBD supplements for overall wellness: DCs may also recommend CBD supplements, such as capsules, tinctures or edibles, to support patients’ overall health and well-being. CBD supplements can help manage stress,3 improve sleep quality4 and promote relaxation, which are essential components of holistic wellness. By incorporating CBD into their daily routine, patients may experience a reduction in pain, inflammation and other symptoms associated with musculoskeletal issues.
4. Collaboration with CBD specialists: DCs can collaborate with their CBD suppliers, who specialize in CBD therapy, to provide comprehensive care for their patients. By working together, DCs and CBD specialists can develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals. This collaborative approach ensures patients receive the most effective and well-rounded care possible, addressing both structural issues and underlying physiological imbalances.
5. Research and evidence-based practice: As with any healthcare intervention, it’s essential for DCs to stay informed about the latest research and evidence regarding CBD’s efficacy and safety. By staying abreast of emerging studies and clinical trials, DCs can make evidence-based recommendations to patients and refine their treatment protocols accordingly. Additionally, conducting research within their own clinics can contribute to the growing body of knowledge surrounding CBD and its therapeutic potential.
6. Patient monitoring and follow-up: DCs should closely monitor patients’ progress when incorporating CBD into their treatment plans. Regular follow-up appointments allow DCs to assess the effectiveness of CBD interventions, make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan and address any concerns or questions patients may have. Open communication between DCs and their patients is key to ensuring optimal outcomes and patient satisfaction.
7. Legal and regulatory considerations: DCs must familiarize themselves with the legal and regulatory landscape surrounding CBD use in their jurisdiction. While CBD products having less than .3% THC are federally legal, some states have specific requirements regarding production, distribution and marketing; these rules vary widely. DCs should ensure that the CBD products they recommend to patients meet quality and safety standards and comply with applicable laws and regulations.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, the integration of CBD into chiropractic care represents a promising avenue for promoting holistic wellness and improving patient outcomes. By leveraging the therapeutic properties of CBD alongside traditional chiropractic treatments, DCs can offer patients a more comprehensive approach to addressing pain, inflammation and other musculoskeletal issues. Through education, collaboration and evidence-based practice, DCs can harness the full potential of CBD to support their patients’ journey toward optimal health and well-being.
JOE KRYSZAK, MBA, is president of Stirling Professional CBD, the brand built by and for doctors of chiropractic. Stirling gives back to the chiropractic industry through state and national chiropractic associations. Since 2014, Stirling has grown, extracted and produced the purest CBD available and offers an industry-leading lineup of 2,500-milligram CBD lotions, THC and THC-free capsules and gels, and four great solutions for better sleep, bringing patients affordable solutions. For more information, visit stirlingprofessional.com.
References
- Kim J, et al. The Cannabinoids, CBDA and THCA, Rescue Memory Deficits and Reduce Amyloid-Beta and Tau Pathology in an Alzheimer’s Disease-like Mouse Model. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(7):6827. PubMed. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10095267/. Accessed Feb. 29, 2024.
- Sinemyiz A, et al. Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol. Antioxidants (Basel). 2020;9(1):21. PubMed. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023045/. Accessed Feb. 29, 2024.
- Cherney K. Using CBD Oil for Anxiety: Does It Work? Healthline, April 4, 2020. https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-for-anxiety#how-cbd-works. Accessed Feb. 29, 2024.
- Caporuscio J. What to know about CBD and sleep. Medical News Today. April 17, 2023. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cbd-and-sleep. Accessed Feb. 29, 2024.
