Breast cancer patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain from aromatase inhibitor therapy may find relief through topical cannabis-based balms, according to new clinical trial data published in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota evaluated the effects of CBD-dominant and THC-dominant topical balms on 21 patients suffering from aromatase inhibitor-induced musculoskeletal syndrome (AIMSS). Participants applied the balms to their hands, wrists, and fingers three times daily for a minimum of two weeks. The cannabis products, provided free of charge by a state-licensed medical cannabis manufacturer, were tested for their impact on pain and physical function.
The study found that 86% of participants reported improvements in their baseline pain levels. Patients using THC-dominant balms experienced the greatest relief. Notably, the benefits persisted throughout the trial period, which lasted up to four weeks.
“Women with breast cancer and AIMSS affecting hands and wrists reported improved pain and physical functioning when using THC and CBD balms,” the study authors stated. “Topical cannabis balms were well tolerated, did not alter estradiol levels, and showed no systemic THC absorption.”
The researchers emphasized that while these findings are promising, larger, placebo-controlled trials with longer treatment durations are necessary to fully understand the benefits and safety of topical cannabis in this patient population.
Previous studies have also suggested that CBD-infused topicals can alleviate osteoarthritic hand pain, supporting the potential broader use of cannabis-based treatments for localized musculoskeletal discomfort.
The full study, “A randomized, open-label trial to assess feasibility and tolerability of topical cannabis balms for the treatment of aromatase inhibitor-associated musculoskeletal syndrome (AIMSS),” is available in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research.
