CANNABIS & SPORTS

Retired athletes often suffer from chronic pain conditions, many of which can be improved with Cannabigerol (CBG) or CBGa due to its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), particularly CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are involved in modulating pain, inflammation, and neuroprotection. Here's a look at specific types of pain commonly faced by retired athletes and the mechanisms through which CBG/CBGa may help:

Chronic Joint Pain (Osteoarthritis)

Retired athletes like Shaquille O'Neal and Brett Favre often suffer from chronic joint pain due to osteoarthritis from years of repetitive stress and injuries. CBG ↓ pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) in the synovial fluid by binding to CB2 receptors on immune cells. This binding leads to a reduction in NF-κB activity --> ↓ inflammation, protecting joint tissues from degeneration. Additionally, CBG --> TRPV1 activation, modulating nociceptive pain signaling in joint receptors, which improves pain perception in osteoarthritis.

Neuropathic Pain

Former athletes like Dan Marino and Mike Tyson have reported nerve pain following surgeries or traumatic injuries. CBG binds to CB1 receptors in the peripheral nervous system, modulating neurotransmitter release and reducing hyperactive pain signaling. CBG also enhances GABA transmission by inhibiting the GABA reuptake transporter (GAT1), leading to ↑ GABA concentrations --> ↓ neuronal excitability, reducing the intensity of neuropathic pain.

Post-Concussion Headaches and Chronic Migraines

Athletes like Troy Aikman and Jim McMahon suffer from chronic headaches due to head injuries. CBG interacts with serotonin (5-HT1A) receptors, promoting neuroprotection and reducing glutamate release, which lowers the neuronal excitability responsible for migraine triggers. CBG also modulates cerebrovascular tone by acting on TRPV1 channels and decreasing oxidative stress, contributing to headache relief and vascular regulation in athletes with chronic migraines.

Muscle Pain and Spasms

Athletes like David Ortiz and Mariano Rivera experience muscle pain and spasms from repeated strain or post-surgical recovery. CBG --> ↑ inhibition of acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction via its action on CB1 receptors, leading to ↓ muscle spasticity and improved recovery. Additionally, CBG acts on TRPM8 channels, which modulate cold-induced muscle pain, providing relief in sore or spasming muscles post-exercise.

Chronic Back Pain (Degenerative Disc Disease)

Many retired athletes, such as Tiger Woods, suffer from chronic back pain due to degenerative disc disease. CBG acts on CB2 receptors in spinal microglia, reducing microglial activation --> ↓ neuroinflammation and subsequent pain transmission in the spinal cord. CBG also promotes neurogenesis in damaged intervertebral discs through PPARγ activation, potentially slowing or reversing disc degeneration.

Tendonitis and Ligament Pain

Athletes like Andre Agassi and Peyton Manning have experienced chronic tendon and ligament pain due to overuse injuries. CBG ↓ COX-2 expression (cyclooxygenase-2), inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGE2), which are key mediators in tendon and ligament inflammation. This anti-inflammatory action helps modulate pain perception and promotes healing in soft tissues.

Bone Pain (Osteoporosis)

Retired athletes such as Kobe Bryant (post-retirement injuries) may suffer from bone pain related to aging or injury recovery. CBG ↑ osteoblast activity and ↓ osteoclast differentiation by interacting with CB2 receptors on bone cells, thereby promoting bone regeneration and reducing pain in conditions like osteoporosis.

Conclusion

CBG/CBGa provides a broad range of benefits for chronic pain management in retired athletes, acting through CB1, CB2, TRPV1, and PPARγ pathways, while modulating neurotransmitters, cytokines, and pro-inflammatory mediators. Its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and analgesic properties make it a promising treatment for various pain conditions, including osteoarthritis, neuropathy, migraines, muscle spasms, and back pain.