Compare Best CBD Cream for Tennis Elbow in 2024

How CBD May Help With Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, or clinically named lateral epicondylitis, is an injury of the elbow due to overuse. This condition is the inflammation, tearing, and degeneration of tendons or the tissue attached to bones and muscles(1).

Tennis players are usually affected by this condition. However, it may also happen to anyone who regularly does repetitive movements or activities using their wrists or forearms(2).

Tennis elbow is a type of tendonitis or irritation in the tendon which causes pain(3). 

Cannabidiol, popularly called CBD, is one of the various chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. 

Compared to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound of cannabis, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects and is non-intoxicating(4). 

Research has indicated that CBD may contain potential anti-inflammatory(5) and pain-relieving properties(6).

Two main symptoms of tennis elbow are inflammation and pain(7). Thus, CBD may help manage symptoms associated with tennis elbow. 

In addition, CBD works with the body’s endocannabinoid system, or ECS, to maintain homeostasis, which is a process where living organisms maintain balance and stability while adapting to changes in the environment(8).  

The ECS is comprised of cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 (CB1 and CB2)(9). 

CB1 receptors bind with THC and moderate most of the central nervous system effects of the compound(10). 

Meanwhile, CB2 receptors are found primarily in the tissues and cells of the immune system(11). 

CB1 receptors regulate pain sensations, whereas CB2 stimulates the body’s anti-inflammatory response(12).

These two receptors may produce analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects when they interact with CBD(13).

Currently, there is no specific research regarding the efficacy of CBD cream in healing tendonitis or tennis elbow. However, CBD’s purported benefits may open the possibility for further analysis. 

Benefits of Using CBD for Tennis Elbow

There are no specific studies investigating the benefits of CBD cream for tennis elbow or tendonitis pain. 

However, CBD’s potential therapeutic benefits may help with managing the symptoms of tennis elbow.

Tendonitis pain symptoms include pain and inflammation on the elbows or arms(14). 

Research from the European Journal of Pain that examined rat models indicated that topical CBD may potentially reduce arthritis pain and inflammation without any harmful side effects(15). 

A case report in 2018 noted that patients suffering from epidermolysis bullosa who self-applied topical CBD noted less pain and blistering and faster wound healing(16). 

Epidermolysis bullosa is a rare disorder that causes painful blistering skin. 

Another 2018 study discussed that individuals suffering from multiple sclerosis who received doses of CBD for pain management had decreased pain, inflammation, and muscle spasticity (muscle tightness)(17).

Multiple sclerosis may cause muscle pain(18). Tennis elbow pain mainly occurs on the tendons of the forearm muscles(19).

Steroid injections containing cortisone are usually used for individuals with tennis elbow to relieve its symptoms(20).

However, these injections may cause adverse side effects such as cartilage damage, nerve damage, and tendon weakening. Additionally, frequent cortisone shots may eventually damage joint tissues(21).

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that CBD has a good safety profile, is well tolerated by humans, and is non-addictive(22).

How to Take CBD Oil for Tennis Elbow 

Individuals may administer CBD oil for tendonitis or tennis elbow in different ways. These formats are CBD topicals, CBD tinctures, CBD edibles like gummies, and vapes. 

The efficacy of these formats may depend on the individual’s weight, metabolism, and diet. 

CBD Topicals

CBD, when applied topically, has been indicated to help with muscle tightness and inflammation(23). 

CBD topicals such as creams, lotions, and balms are directly administered to the affected area of the skin for localized pain relief from mild or chronic pain(24).

These topical cannabinoids do not enter the bloodstream. Instead, CB2 receptors located on the skin will absorb the cannabinoids to help reduce pain and inflammation(25).

CBD Vapes

Vaping or smoking CBD using vape pens is considered the fastest way to get CBD into the system(26). This method administers CBD oil into the body through inhalation. 

However, people who choose to smoke CBD should exercise caution as this format is associated with potential health risks like lung disease(27). 

The other way you can administer CBD oil is through CBD oil tinctures, which are taken sublingually (under the tongue) using a dropper or oromucosal spray. 

In the sublingual method, the compound bypasses the gastrointestinal tract and directly enters the bloodstream(28).

Meanwhile, edibles like CBD gummies and supplements allow the compound to first pass through the digestive tract before entering the bloodstream.

CBD Dosage for Tennis Elbow

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has not authorized the use of CBD as a medical treatment for tennis elbow. Hence, there is no set CBD dosage for the condition.

Meanwhile, it has been hypothesized that mid-range CBD doses of 10mg to 100mg daily may be effective for pain and inflammation(29). 

Tennis elbow is linked to pain and inflammation(30). Thus, mid-range doses of CBD may help with the issue. 

Still, it is highly suggested to talk to a healthcare professional experienced in cannabis use for more accurate dosing. 

How Long Does CBD Take to Help Tennis Elbow?

How long CBD takes to help with tennis elbow may vary depending on the administration method, CBD potency, and the user’s body weight and metabolism.

CBD topicals such as CBD creams, lotions, and balms have an onset time of 10 to 15 minutes after application(31).

Taking CBD through vaping or smoking may offer the fastest onset time of 2 to 15 minutes(32).

However, caution should be exercised when smoking or vaping due to potential health risks, such as lung irritation and severe pulmonary disease(33). 

CBD tinctures may take effect after 15 to 30 minutes due to the compound’s direct entry into the bloodstream(34). Meanwhile, CBD edibles like gummies may begin working within 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion(35).

Consult an experienced medical professional before taking any CBD oil products for tennis elbow.

How Long Will CBD Help With Tennis Elbow?

How long CBD helps with tennis elbow depends on the compound’s bioavailability. 

Bioavailability is defined as the duration to which a substance becomes fully available to its intended biological destination(36).

Individuals suffering from tennis elbow may feel pain and general weakness in their hands and wrists. Some people may consider trying CBD topicals to help with the issue. 

When CBD is administered to the skin, it enters the bloodstream or becomes entirely available to the body. Thus, its bioavailability is zero(37). 

Meanwhile, the bioavailability of CBD through vaping is around 17% and 44%(38). 

How to Choose the Right CBD Cream for Tennis Elbow

Many CBD brands in the market claim to offer the best CBD products for specific health issues, such as tennis elbow. 

Below are a few pertinent aspects to consider that may help you find and choose the best CBD cream: 

CBD Extracts

The three types of CBD extracts are full-spectrum CBD oil, broad-spectrum CBD oil, and CBD isolates(39).  

Full-spectrum CBD oil contains all compounds of the cannabis plant, as well as cannabinoids, essential oils, terpenes, and flavonoids. 

Full-spectrum CBD also contains less than 0.3% THC. Additionally, due to the combination of all the cannabis compounds, this CBD extract is known to provide the entourage effect. 

The entourage effect is a phenomenon where all the active compounds of cannabis function better when administered simultaneously. 

Terpenes are responsible for the unique fragrance of cannabis(40), while flavonoids are active compounds that may have antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties(41). 

Broad-spectrum CBD oil contains all the natural compounds of cannabis, except for THC(42). Lastly, CBD isolates are pure cannabidiol.

Ingredients 

It is highly suggested to opt for CBD creams made with natural and organic ingredients because you will be applying the product directly to your skin. 

CBD topicals, like CBD creams and CBD salves, may also contain peppermint, aloe vera, beeswax, and menthol.  

If it is the first time you are using CBD topicals, make sure to consult your physician first to determine if you are allergic to some of the ingredients in the product.  

Carrier Oils 

Upon the extraction of CBD from the hemp plant, CBD manufacturers infuse the compound into a carrier oil, like coconut and hempseed oil(43). 

Keep in mind that ‘hempseed oil’ and ‘hemp oil’ have considerable differences.

Hemp oil, also called CBD oil, is an essential oil from the leaves and flowers of hemp plants, whereas hempseed oil is produced from pressed hemp seeds. 

Additionally, hempseed oil is abundant in fatty acids and nutrients. However, it does not contain CBD(44). 

Extraction Method  

Ethanol, natural solvent, and carbon dioxide extraction are some preferred extraction techniques to make safe CBD products(45). 

Extraction methods utilizing hexane or butane may leave behind toxic residues, like pesticides and heavy metals.

Third-Party Lab Testing

Checking the third-party lab reports and certificates of analysis (COAs) are methods to ensure that a CBD product contains what is advertised. 

The COAs or lab test results should come from an authorized third-party laboratory and be up-to-date. 

Hence, ensure that the information on the COA matches the claims on the product label. 

The CBD Brand’s Reputation

The reputation of the CBD brands should be fully appraised to ensure that the company is authorized to manufacture and distribute CBD products. 

It would be best to opt for CBD companies that produce non-GMO, cruelty-free CBD products made from organic hemp.

Risks and Side Effects of Using CBD for Tennis Elbow

A report from the WHO states that cannabidiol is generally well tolerated by the body and non-addictive(46). The report also says that the compound has a good safety profile.

However, CBD may also produce minor side effects such as (47): 

• Fatigue 
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Reduced appetite

Additionally, CBD at high doses may inhibit the activity of cytochrome P450(48). Cytochrome P450 enzymes are liver enzymes that metabolize roughly 60% of the medications people take. 

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen may relieve pain and discomfort associated with tennis elbow(49). 

Doctors may also inject corticosteroids (steroids) around a tendon for pain relief and anti-inflammation(50). 

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs), like ibuprofen and steroids, utilize the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, which may interact with CBD(51). 

Thus, it is vital to consult with your healthcare provider first if you are considering using CBD alongside other medications for tennis elbow. 

Meanwhile, if you plan to use CBD creams for your medical condition, it would be best to consult a dermatologist because some CBD topicals contain ingredients like beeswax, which may cause an allergic reaction in some individuals.   

Legality of CBD

The 2018 Farm Bill states that Cannabis sativa L. and other derivatives of cannabis that contain less than 0.3% THC are federally legal in the United States(52). 

However, some states may require a medical marijuana card to buy cannabis products from authorized distributors. 

Therefore, it is essential to research and verify state legislation concerning cannabis use to avoid any legal repercussions. 

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, clinically named lateral epicondylitis, is a tendon injury that causes pain around the elbow. This injury is usually caused by overusing the muscles attached to the elbow(53).

Tennis players who grasp their racquets too tightly are most likely to acquire this condition. However, anyone who regularly does repetitive activities using their arms can also develop this issue(54).

Tennis elbow is one type of tendonitis or the inflammation of the tendon that causes pain(55). Other types of tendonitis (also called tendinitis) include the golfer’s elbow, Achilles tendonitis, and jumper’s knee(56).  

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Symptoms of tennis elbow may develop slowly, and the pain may eventually worsen over time. These symptoms include(57):

• Pain on the outer elbow that may spread to the wrist 
• Pain and stiffness when bending, twisting, or extending the arm
• Swollen elbow joints 
• Weakened grip 

Since tennis elbow is a type of tendonitis, the condition may also show typical symptoms of tendonitis like(58):

• Tendon pain that gets worse when moved
• Difficulty moving joints
• A grating or crackling sensation when moving the tendon
• Swelling or redness of the joint

Alternative Treatments for Tennis Elbow

Symptoms of tennis elbow may get better on their own with little to no treatment. However, it may take around 18 months to recover fully. Here are some nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments that may hasten recovery(59):

• Rest: reducing activities for a few weeks to give time for tendons to heal.
• Braces: wearing a removable support brace to take tension off the tendons and muscles may be recommended by the doctor.
• Physical therapy: doing physical therapy exercises can strengthen forearm muscles, reduce pain, and improve muscle function.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): taking NSAIDs like naproxen and ibuprofen may reduce pain and inflammation.
• Steroid injections: injecting corticosteroids to temporarily relieve joint pain and inflammation

If tennis elbow symptoms persist after six to 12 months of nonsurgical therapies, doctors may suggest surgery for tendon repair. This procedure involves removing the injured muscle and tendon and replacing it with a healthier one. Recovery from this surgery may take four to six months(60).

How To Prevent Tennis Elbow

You can avoid getting tennis elbow by doing these steps(61):

• Avoiding repetitive movements
• Keeping your arms strong and flexible 
• Warming up before exercising 

Making sure your gear is correct for you if you play racquet sports