Bursitis is a type of inflammation that affects one or more bursae. It is a painful condition that affects the small, fluid-filled sacs—called bursae—that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these bursae become inflamed, they can cause stiffness, swelling, and persistent pain. While bursitis is commonly caused by repetitive motion or pressure on a joint, it can also be triggered by injury, infection, or underlying conditions like arthritis.
Conventional treatments include rest, ice, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, some patients have begun exploring alternative therapies like cannabis to ease bursitis symptoms. With growing interest in medical marijuana, more people want to know: Can weed really help with bursitis pain and inflammation?
Let’s explore what the research says and how cannabis may interact with the body to provide relief.
The scientific community has yet to publish a large body of research focusing specifically on cannabis for bursitis, but what we do know is promising. Since bursitis involves inflammation and pain—two areas where medical marijuana shows potential—some patients report meaningful relief using certain strains of cannabis.
Several studies have shown that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), the two most prominent cannabinoids in marijuana, may help reduce inflammation and improve pain tolerance. For instance:
Cannabigerol (CBG), a lesser-known cannabinoid, may help reduce inflammation by activating the PPARγ receptor—a mechanism supported by past findings (Granja et al., 2012, as cited in Fonseca et al., 2025).
A 2012 study found that certain cannabinoids, including a compound derived from cannabigerol (CBG), may help reduce inflammation and protect nerve cells by activating receptors in the body involved in immune response and brain health (Granja et al., 2012).
Although these studies were not conducted specifically on bursitis, the mechanism of inflammation is similar. That’s why some patients are turning to weed to help manage symptoms such as:
Joint swelling
Discomfort during movement
Stiffness
Pain at rest or while sleeping
Because the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in pain perception and immune system regulation, cannabinoids may offer support in calming overactive inflammatory responses associated with bursitis.
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning or changing any treatment.
Understanding how cannabis might help bursitis starts with the ECS—a vast network of receptors (CB1 and CB2), endogenous cannabinoids, and enzymes that help regulate balance across various bodily functions like pain, sleep, mood, and inflammation.
Here’s how it may help with bursitis:
Anti-inflammatory properties: THC and CBD may help suppress cytokine production, compounds that trigger inflammation.
Pain relief: THC binds to CB1 receptors in the nervous system and may reduce pain signals to the brain.
Muscle relaxation and sleep support: Certain strains help relieve muscle tension and improve sleep quality, which is crucial for recovery from inflammation.
Topical relief: Some patients apply cannabis-infused creams or balms directly over the affected joint for localized symptom relief without experiencing a high.
While cannabis is not a cure, it may offer a supportive role in managing bursitis-related symptoms, particularly for those who haven’t found relief from traditional therapies.
Note: This article is for educational purposes only. Always speak to a qualified healthcare provider before trying cannabis for bursitis or changing your treatment plan.
The typical first-line treatment includes NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen or naproxen. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended. For chronic bursitis, a healthcare provider may explore physical therapy or even surgery.
In the United States, medical marijuana is approved for several conditions, including chronic pain, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, PTSD, cancer-related symptoms, and more. While bursitis isn’t always listed as a qualifying condition, patients with chronic inflammation or pain may still qualify depending on state laws.
Strains high in CBD or balanced THC:CBD ratios tend to be the most effective for inflammation. Examples include:
Alternative Cannabinoid Dietary Cannabis (ACDC)
Harlequin
Cannatonic
Pennywise
These strains offer anti-inflammatory properties without intense psychoactive effects.
Yes, many patients report that marijuana helps reduce joint inflammation and associated pain. Cannabinoids may limit pro-inflammatory enzymes and improve blood flow to joints, which can help reduce swelling and stiffness.
Emerging treatments include biologic injections, PRP therapy (platelet-rich plasma), and ultrasound-guided aspiration of the bursa. Complementary approaches like CBD products and low-level laser therapy are also gaining attention. Always consult a physician before trying new therapies.
Some individuals have found relief through natural remedies like:
Rest and gentle stretching
Ice therapy
Anti-inflammatory diets (rich in omega-3s and turmeric)
CBD oil or cannabis salves
Physical therapy and strengthening exercises
Note: Results vary, and it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before stopping medications or treatments.
While cannabis may help, it’s not without risks. Common side effects can include:
Drowsiness or fatigue
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Cognitive changes (especially in high-THC strains)
Risk of dependency in long-term use
Patients with heart issues, mental health conditions, or a history of substance misuse should proceed with caution and speak to a doctor.
Doctors commonly inject corticosteroids directly into the inflamed bursa to reduce inflammation and provide fast relief. This treatment is generally effective for acute flare-ups, though not usually repeated often due to potential side effects.
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) for inflammation
Corticosteroids for severe or chronic cases
Antibiotics if bursitis is caused by an infection
Topical analgesics or CBD balms for mild, localized discomfort
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions regarding your health or treatment options.
Written by Kenneth Bancale
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