Medical Cannabis and Tennis Elbow: A Natural Solution for Chronic Pain

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort in the elbow and forearm. While it’s often associated with athletes, particularly tennis players, this repetitive stress injury can affect anyone who engages in activities that require frequent wrist and arm movement. From construction workers to office employees, tennis elbow can be a persistent and frustrating condition.

Traditional treatment options include rest, physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers, and even corticosteroid injections. However, as more people seek natural alternatives to conventional treatments, medical cannabis has gained attention for its potential to relieve pain and inflammation associated with tennis elbow. But can medical cannabis really help? Let’s explore the science behind cannabis and how it may provide relief for those suffering from this painful condition.

Understanding Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow become inflamed due to overuse. The primary symptoms include:

• Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow
• Weak grip strength, making it difficult to hold objects
• Discomfort that radiates from the elbow down to the forearm and wrist
• Increased pain with movement, especially when lifting or gripping

The condition is caused by repetitive stress, which leads to small tears in the tendon. Over time, these tears can cause chronic pain and make everyday tasks challenging. Standard treatments focus on reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and strengthening the affected muscles, but they don’t always provide long-term relief. This is where medical cannabis may offer an alternative or complementary approach.

How Medical Cannabis May Help with Tennis Elbow

Cannabis contains compounds called cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a complex network of receptors that regulates pain, inflammation, and immune responses. Two key cannabinoids, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have shown promise in managing pain and reducing inflammation.

1. Pain Relief

Chronic pain is one of the main reasons patients turn to medical cannabis. Both THC and CBD have been shown to influence pain perception by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the nervous system. THC, in particular, has analgesic properties that can reduce pain intensity, while CBD helps modulate pain without the intoxicating effects of THC.

A 2018 review published in Frontiers in Pharmacology highlighted cannabis’ potential to treat chronic pain conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders like arthritis and tendon injuries. For individuals with tennis elbow, using medical cannabis could provide relief where traditional painkillers fall short.

2. Reducing Inflammation

Inflammation is a key factor in tennis elbow, and reducing it can help speed up recovery. Studies suggest that cannabinoids, especially CBD, have strong anti-inflammatory properties. By targeting inflammation at its source, cannabis may help decrease swelling, tenderness, and discomfort associated with lateral epicondylitis.

A study published in Pain (2019) found that CBD significantly reduced inflammation in animal models with joint and muscle injuries. While more research is needed in humans, many patients report reduced swelling and pain after using CBD-based products.

3. Muscle Relaxation and Spasm Reduction

Muscle tightness and spasms can worsen tennis elbow symptoms, making movement painful. Cannabis has been shown to act as a muscle relaxant, which may help patients experiencing stiffness or cramping in the forearm and wrist.

THC and CBD work on the ECS to promote relaxation, which can help ease tension in the affected muscles. This may be particularly beneficial for those who experience nighttime discomfort or difficulty sleeping due to pain.

4. Improved Sleep and Recovery

Rest is an essential component of healing from tennis elbow, but pain and discomfort can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. THC is well-known for its sedative effects, which can help improve sleep quality, while CBD has been shown to regulate sleep cycles and reduce insomnia.

Better sleep can enhance the body’s ability to repair damaged tissues and promote faster recovery from tendon injuries.

Best Ways to Use Medical Cannabis for Tennis Elbow

If you’re considering medical cannabis for tennis elbow, it’s important to choose the right delivery method based on your symptoms and lifestyle. Here are some of the most effective ways to use cannabis for pain and inflammation:

Topical Creams and Balms

How it works: Cannabis-infused creams, balms, and salves can be applied directly to the affected area. These products deliver cannabinoids to the skin and muscles without entering the bloodstream, making them a great option for localized pain relief.

Best for: Reducing inflammation and relieving surface-level pain without psychoactive effects.

CBD Oil and Tinctures

How it works: Sublingual drops (placed under the tongue) are absorbed quickly into the bloodstream and provide systemic relief.

Best for: Combating inflammation and pain from the inside out, with effects lasting several hours.

Edibles and Capsules

How it works: Cannabis-infused edibles or capsules take longer to kick in but provide long-lasting relief.

Best for: Patients looking for extended pain relief without the need for frequent dosing.

Vaping or Smoking

How it works: Inhaled cannabis enters the bloodstream rapidly, providing almost immediate pain relief.

Best for: Quick relief from acute pain, though it may not be suitable for everyone due to potential lung irritation.

Choosing the Right Cannabis Strain

Not all cannabis strains are created equal when it comes to pain relief. Some strains may be more effective for tennis elbow than others. Here are a few strains to consider:

High-CBD Strains (Non-Psychoactive, Anti-Inflammatory)

Harlequin – A balanced CBD:THC ratio for mild pain relief

ACDC – High in CBD, great for inflammation

Balanced THC/CBD Strains (Pain Relief and Relaxation)

Cannatonic – A 1:1 ratio of THC and CBD, reducing pain while keeping the mind clear

Pennywise – Another balanced strain known for muscle relaxation

High-THC Strains (Strong Pain Relief, May Cause Intoxication)

Granddaddy Purple – Great for nighttime pain relief and sleep

Blue Dream – A hybrid strain that helps with pain and mood elevation

Potential Risks and Considerations

While medical cannabis offers potential benefits for tennis elbow, it’s important to consider potential risks:

Psychoactive effects – THC can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or cognitive impairment, so it’s important to start with a low dose.

Legal considerations – Always check your state’s laws regarding medical cannabis use.

Drug interactions – Cannabis may interact with other medications, including NSAIDs or muscle relaxants, so consult a healthcare provider before use.

Conclusion: A Natural Approach to Tennis Elbow Relief

For those struggling with the persistent pain of tennis elbow, medical cannabis may offer a promising alternative to traditional treatments. With its potential to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, relax muscles, and promote better sleep, cannabis could be a valuable tool in managing this common condition.

If you’re considering cannabis for tennis elbow, consult with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to find the right strain, dosage, and method of consumption. By exploring natural therapies like medical cannabis, you may find a safe and effective way to get back to doing the activities you love—without the persistent pain.

Would you like help finding a qualified medical cannabis provider? ReThink-Rx specializes in guiding patients through the certification process, ensuring safe and legal access to medical cannabis for pain management and other conditions. Contact us today to learn more!