An NFL-funded study published in the journal Sports Medicine reveals the growing role of marijuana as a therapeutic tool for athletes, highlighting its potential to address issues like pain, anxiety and brain injuries, while also acknowledging the complications and lack of knowledge caused by strict laws and regulations.
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“The increasing legalization of Cannabis sativa plant products has sparked growing interest in their therapeutic applications”, states the study’s abstract, which was also published by the US National Library of Medicine. “Prohibition laws established in 1937 hindered formal research on cannabis, a plant with cultural and medicinal roots dating back to 2700 BC in Chinese history. Despite regulatory hurdles, published research on cannabis has emerged; yet elite athletes remain an underrepresented population in these studies.”
It continues “Athletes, known for exploring diverse substances to optimize performance, are drawn to the potential benefits of cannabinoid therapy, with anecdotal reports suggesting positive effects on issues ranging from anxiety to brain injuries.”
With that in mind, “This review aims to evaluate empirical published cannabis research with a specific focus on its potential applications in athletics.”
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina, states that the changing legal landscape, “especially the removal of cannabis from drug testing programs in leagues such as the National Basketball Association (NBA), and endorsements by Major League Baseball (MLB) for cannabinoid products and the National Football League (NFL) for cannabis research, reflects a shift in the acceptability of such substances in sports.”
Researchers say that despite this, “stigma, confusion, and a lack of education persist, hindering a cohesive understanding among sports organizations, including business professionals, policymakers, coaches, and medical/training staff, in addition to athletes themselves.”
Adding to the confusion is “the lack of consistency with cannabinoid regulations from sport to sport, within or out of competition, and with cannabis bioactive compounds.”
Researchers say “The need for this review is underscored by the evolving attitudes toward cannabinoids in professional sports and the potential therapeutic benefits or harms they may offer. By synthesizing current cannabis research, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the applications and implications of cannabinoid use in the realm of athletics.”
Given that the current state of cannabis laws and policies is “confusing and non-standardized”, researchers call on sports leagues to establish consistent guidelines and comprehensive education for athletes, medical staff, and policymakers. The study found that marijuana and its compounds show consistent benefits in treating a variety of sports-related ailments, especially joint and muscle pain.
For more information on this study, click here.
Earlier this year the NFL announced that it’s partnering with researchers in order to conduct clinical trials on the safety and efficiency of the marijuana compound cannabidiol (CBD) for treating pain and providing protection against concussions. The study’s are expected to be completed in 2026.
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