Osteoarthritis in France: resources and the place of CBD cosmetics

According to Inserm, osteoarthritis is the most common joint condition in France, affecting the majority of people after the age of 65 to varying degrees. The joints most often concerned are the knee, the hip, the hands and the spine. It typically presents as mechanical pain aggravated by use, short morning stiffness of less than 30 minutes, a progressive limitation of range of movement and, at times, congestive flare-ups with swelling.

AFLAR, the French association for the fight against rheumatism, is one of the main patient organisations for rheumatological conditions. It provides information on the conditions, support for patients and those close to them, and prevention initiatives.

The SFR, the French society of rheumatology, publishes professional recommendations and makes documents available to the general public. The SFETD, the French society for the study and treatment of pain, recommends a multidisciplinary assessment in a pain evaluation and treatment centre for any chronic pain lasting more than three months. More than 250 such facilities exist in France, bringing together a doctor, a nurse, a psychologist and a physiotherapist.

The HAS publishes the official care recommendations, which promote adapted physical activity, weight control and physiotherapy.

The general practitioner remains the reference point for the initial diagnosis, referral to a rheumatologist or physiotherapist, the prescription of painkillers and long-term follow-up. A prompt consultation is called for in the event of an acute flare-up with swelling, a locked joint, night pain or a rapid deterioration in function.

Cannabidiol has been listed in the European Commission's CosIng database since February 2021. CBD balms and creams fall under European cosmetics regulation 1223/2009 and cannot claim any pain-relieving or anti-inflammatory action. A CBD cosmetic can nonetheless form part of a daily massage ritual, after the shower, in slow circles over the joint concerned.

Before buying, check the CBD content in milligrams, the certificate of analysis published by the brand, the full INCI list free of prohibited synthetic cannabinoids, and compliance with the THC threshold of less than 0.30 %. For a complete routine incorporating this type of product, our article Living with osteoarthritis day to day: CBD cosmetic balm and joint comfort sets out the steps to adopt morning and evening.

Living with osteoarthritis also involves a regular physiotherapist, a sports physician if adapted physical activity is at stake, a nutritionist if weight loss is an objective, and a psychologist or sophrologist for the emotional component of chronic pain. Chronic pain is largely a subjective experience, modulated by sleep, mood and social isolation, which explains the effectiveness of the multidisciplinary approach recommended by the SFETD. Our article CBD and osteoarthritis: what science allows us to say revisits the current limits of research on this subject.

CBD is not a medicine. In the event of intense or persistent joint pain, consult your general practitioner, a rheumatologist or a CETD centre. Use is not advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women or for minors. If you are undergoing medical treatment, ask your doctor's advice before using a CBD cosmetic.

How do I find a CETD centre near me?

The SFETD publishes a national directory of chronic pain care facilities on its website. Access is generally by referral from the GP or a specialist.

Can an association such as AFLAR support me?

Yes. AFLAR offers information, support, discussion groups and prevention initiatives for people with rheumatological conditions, with access to publications through membership.

Is a CBD cosmetic covered by the French health insurance system?

No. Cosmetics are not reimbursed. Only prescribed medical treatments, such as painkillers or physiotherapy, may be covered.

Is psychological support really of use in osteoarthritis?

Yes. Chronic pain has a significant emotional component, and psychological or sophrological support is part of the SFETD's multidisciplinary recommendations.