CBD for Runner’s Knee

As we continue to meet more and more runners through our sponsorships of races like the Hamptons Marathon, Fall Foliage Half Marathon and the upcoming Sleepy Hollow Halloween 10K, we often get asked about using CBD for Runner’s Knee.

 

Running can be an amazing cardio workout for people of all ages, however running can also be a painful ordeal if you don’t rest for a good amount of time or take care of your knees the right way. In this article we are going to help you understand how CBD can help relieve the post-run pain and ease the journey to runner’s knee recovery!

 

Are you a runner that frequently ends up with joint pain after your workout? If yes, then continue reading because we have some helpful advice for you.

 

What is Runner’s Knee?

 

Runners know that things can get tough on the road and if you have participated in a long race like a 10K, half-marathon or marathon, you know it’s inevitable to get one or two bruises. One of the most common injuries that runners face in this regard is the Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) also known as Runner’s Knee.

 

Contrary to the name, the condition is not confined to runners. While runners are particularly susceptible to the disorder, several other causes can lead to PFPS such as overuse of knees, trauma, or misalignment.

 

So, what exactly is PFPS? Runner’s knee is a condition in which the cartilage at the back of your kneecap deteriorates and softens. You may feel pain in front of your kneecap, around it, or behind it depending upon the spread of the injury. The condition can leave you unable to bend your knee to walk, run, or even kneel for days on end.

 

What are some common treatments for Runner’s Knee?

 

According to Therapist Preferred Co-Founder, Dr. Doug Geller from Score Physical Therapy & Wellness in Rye, NY, here are some common treatments for runner’s knee.

 

👉 Rest your knee. As much as possible, try to avoid things that make it hurt worse, like squatting, lunging, or sitting and standing for long periods of time.

 

👉 Contrast treatment utilizing both ice and heat to reduce inflammation and pain.  In the acute phase (first 48 hours) utilize ice and after 48 hours moist heat works well.

 

👉 Compression sleeves and patellar straps work well to offer stability and increase circulation.

 

👉 Take NSAIDsor utilize CBD to reduce.  These medications and topical creams respectively help with pain and inflammation.  Use as directed on the bottles and always ask your physician for guidance.

 

👉 Perform stretch and strengthening exercises twice daily, especially for your glutes, hamstrings, quadriceps, hip flexors and ITB. Your physical therapist can recommend and educate you on the many safe and appropriate stretch and strengthening exercises.

 

What Does CBD Do?

 

Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is being studied as a plant that harbors a plethora of health benefits. While the research on the subject is still being developed, there is sufficient evidence to support that CBD can reduce anxiety, improve the quality of sleep, and assist in muscle recovery.

 

It works as a part of effective therapy against acute and chronic pain and may help you recover from injuries faster. The anti-inflammatory properties are helpful in joint pain and can balance cortisol levels which reduces muscle tension.

 

How Does CBD Work?

 

We can explain the effects of CBD by understanding how it interacts with the human body. This natural extract interacts with the Endocannabidiol System (ECS) which is a complex physiologic network that works to establish a sound body and mind and takes care of the overall health and wellness.

 

Endocannabinoids have anti-nociceptive properties that can assist in pain management and analgesic properties that can induce sedation. Their anti-inflammatory properties are widely appreciated amongst runners as they provide substantial relief after a long run.

 

What Can CBD Do for Runner’s Knee?

 

As discussed above, runner’s knee is not caused by actual tissue damage but rather due to inflammation around the patella or kneecap. Since CBD has extensive anti-inflammatory properties, the hemp extract can bring considerable relief from pain.

 

While this can help reduce inflammation and pain while you recover, it can also help in indirect ways such as improving sleep quality so that you can rest well after a long run. Moreover, it may improve your appetite so that you consume all the right nutrients that you need to get back up on your feet.

 

CBD has been gaining significant popularity in recent times especially among the sports community for being a great supplement after races. That being said, one needs to keep in mind that while it may relieve pain and may ease the path to recovery, there is no definite guarantee that it is a complete solution. Instead, it merely works as a temporary fix for what could be a bigger underlying problem.

 

How Do You Use CBD for Runner’s Knee?

 

After a run, runners can use CBD in the shape of cream, balm, or oil on their kneecaps as well as around it and at the back to achieve a great sense of relief and mitigate soreness. CBD can be a good alternative to over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. A lot of people prefer to consume CBD in the form of delicious gummies that are a fun way to keep the pain away on the road or after a tiring race.

 

CBD Product Recommendations for Runner’s Knee

 

 CBD Sports Cream

 

This premium, everyday sports cream from Therapist Preferred is a tried and trusted product of many athletes who like to stay in shape even after long hours of training activities. CBD sports cream will be your best friend in the post-workout ritual and support your active lifestyle. The cream is easy to use, all you have to do is take a small amount and rub it around your knee a few times a day and you will notice fast-acting relief.

 

 CBD Gummies

 

One of the most popular ways to consume CBD is through these tasty gummies. They come in fruity flavors like strawberry lemonade or green apple with organic, vegan, gluten-free ingredients. You can take them on the run with you and take 1-2 or as needed throughout the day.

 

Organic CBD Tincture Oil

 

The mint-flavored organic CBD tincture oil is your solution to everyday stresses and runner’s exhaustion. One dropper daily of this naturally occurring hemp plant extract with oil will promote a feeling of calmness and better homeostasis.

 

Conclusion

 

CBD is a great natural option as part of the treatment of and recovery from Runner’s Knee.  As a company started by a physical therapist, we also recommend consulting with a PT or other sports medicine professional.

 

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