CBD and Cerebral Palsy
In recent years, CBD products have been gaining increasing popularity. And no wonder. Since CBD does not have psychoactive effects, products containing this cannabinoid are freely available. The therapeutic potential of CBD is truly broad and helps in treating many diseases and alleviating countless difficulties. These abilities have led experts to question whether CBD can similarly help in treating cerebral palsy.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
According to the website of the leading American institute Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), cerebral palsy can be defined as a group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain proper balance.
The symptoms vary among individuals. Difficulties differ, but generally, it can be said that everyone has more or less problems with movement, body posture, and associated issues such as mental disabilities, seizures, joint pain, hearing or speech problems, spinal changes, sleep problems, anxiety, and arthritis.
Cerebral Palsy is caused by several neurological disorders affecting motor, fine motor, and mental functions.
CBD in Treating Cerebral Palsy: What Do Studies Say?
Looking at the list of associated cerebral palsy difficulties, we see conditions for which experts have already proven CBD's therapeutic abilities. This likely led to exploring the connection between CBD and potential symptom relief. Current study results are as follows:
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It was found that older patients with cerebral palsy are more prone to anxiety and depression. However, CBD has proven to be an excellent helper in combating these challenges. We know that the CBD cannabinoid demonstrably helps people suffering from depression, anxiety, or insomnia.
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The Journal of Child Neurology published a study stating that CBD treatment helps patients with pain, insomnia, and spasticity.
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Another advantage of CBD treatment is the potential elimination of medication overuse. Spasticity and inability to relax muscle cramps inevitably lead to taking medications that relax these cramps in patients. Research shows that CBD can relax muscles and provide relief from cramps.
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Individuals with cerebral palsy often experience seizures. Studies suggest that CBD has significant importance here. It can help with epileptic seizures. Its anti-epileptic effects influence the frequency and progression of seizures.
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CBD can reduce pain. Moreover, serotonin release generally leads to overall mental well-being in patients.
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CBD is a muscle relaxant and helps reduce inflammation in the body. Its use leads to less muscle stiffness and increased range of motion.
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The CBD cannabinoid can fight hypertension, which occurs in patients with cerebral palsy.