Paul JamesUpdated on March 14, 2025
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Does CDB roll on work for pain? Take advantage of CBD’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. We’ve testes and reviewed the best CBD roll-on products for pain so you can experience quick relief hands-free.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is known for its pain-relieving effects, and topicals are popular. They target specific areas, delivering direct relief (i.e. to back pain).
CBD roll-ons stand out from creams and lotions by offering a hands-free, mess-free application—ideal for quick, on-the-go relief.
But what is the best CBD roll-on for pain, and where should you buy it? This guide has everything you need to know.
CBD ROLL-ON pain relief: What is it exactly?
A CBD roll-on stick is a topical product made with a gel that contains CBD and other soothing ingredients (i.e. menthol). This blend helps with targeted relief and skin comfort.
The CBD content in a roll-on is measured in milligrams (mg). Most CBD pain relief roll-ons have higher CBD concentrations (around 1000mg) since CBD struggles to penetrate the skin. This means you absorb less CBD compared to oils or gummies.
Compared to other topicals, a CBD oil roll-on is convenient, mess-free, and easy to carry. Whether at work or the gym, you can take it anywhere for quick relief.
Top 10 Best CBD Roll-On sticks for Pain
BEST THC-FREE
MEDTERRA
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Isolate
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
1000 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
16 mg per mL
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$64.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.06 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
It’s no secret that Medterra offers top-quality CBD products, and their roll on is no exception. Each incorporates 1000 mg of CBD isolate, making this topical 100% THC-free. Furthermore, it incorporates other organic botanicals – such as arnica and menthol – to provide you with even more pain relief.
The only downside to Medterra’s product is it uses isolate CBD, not allowing for the entourage effect. This along with the somewhat low dosage (16 mg per mL) may turn off long-time CBD users. However, it’s a great start for newcomers to this industry.
BEST VARIETY
Green Roads
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
350 mg - 1500 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$34.99 - $39.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.03 - $0.09 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
When it comes to variety, Green Roads doesn’t fall short. They have 3 unique roll-on variations, each of which is designed to provide specific relief. Their most notable are the “Heat Relief” and “Cool Relief” roll ons. Each comes in 750 mg of broad-spectrum CBD, and the “Heat Relief” can also be purchased in 350 mg.
However, the spotlight here has to go to Green Roads’ “Arthritis Pain Relief Roll-On.” Beyond the 1500 mg of broad-spectrum CBD, this is made using menthol and camphor in order to further relieve pain. Not to mention, black cohosh root is also implemented to act as an anti-inflammatory. If you struggle with arthritis and find other CBD products just aren’t doing it, this one may be for you.
BEST VALUE
CBDfx
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
750 mg - 3000 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$39.99 - $99.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.03 - $0.05 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Free shipping only available on orders of $75 or more
CBDfx offers two types of Balm Sticks – each of which is designed to provide you with a unique relief. The first is their “CBD Balm Stick Muscle & Joint,” coming with either 750 mg or 3000 mg of broad-spectrum CBD. This is also made using camphor oil for a warming effect that can relax muscles alongside peppermint and wintergreen oils for cooling pain relief.
On the other hand, their “CBD Balm Stick Calming & Moisturizing” uses a set of ingredients meant to rejuvenate the skin. While this likely won’t help as much with inflammatory pain, it may be beneficial for skin surface pains, such as those brought upon by acne. This topical is also made with either 750 mg or 3000 mg CBD along with shea butter, roman chamomile oil, lavender, chamomile, and tea tree oil.
BEST FOR BEGINNERS
Charlotte's Web
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
100 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$14.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.15 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Charlotte’s Web roll-on incorporates 100 mg of full-spectrum CBD, allowing for the entourage effect. However, this is a fairly low dosage (even in a 0.34 oz bottle), making this one of the weaker products on our list. Still, if you’re new to CBD and not sure how it’s going to make you feel, such a low potency is ideal. Not to mention, the price point of $14.99 per bottle is great for those just getting started.
It should be noted that Charlotte’s Web offers one of the best varieties of CBD topicals on the market. While these aren’t all roll-ons, if you’re struggling with a specific type of pain, you’ll likely find a topical here geared towards that discomfort.
cbdMD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
300 mg - 3000 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$29.99 - $129.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.04 - $0.09 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Free shipping only available on orders of $59.99 or more
cbdMD’s CBD Freeze Roller is one of the best broad-spectrum topicals on our list. It can be purchased in 4 different total CBD range options: 300 mg, 750 mg, 1500 mg, and 3000 mg. Each of these also incorporates menthol for temporary pain relief and arnica, tea tree oil, and aloe vera to soothe skin.
Since there are so many potency options here, you can guarantee there’s one for everyone. The only downside to cbdMD’s topical is the fact that it doesn’t allow for the entourage effect. If you’d prefer this formula in a CBD cream, cbdMD also offers that.
Social CBD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Isolate
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
1000 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
About 40 mg per use
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$34.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.03 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Free shipping only available on orders of $75 or more
The highlight of Social CBD’s Balm Stick is undoubtedly the value – each costs only $34.99 and comes with 1000 mg of CBD. In other words, you’re only paying $0.03 per mg of CBD! In comparison to most competitors, this is a great deal and made even better with coupons or a subscription service.
The Balm Stick itself is also one of the highest qualities on the market – incorporating CBD isolate alongside a natural blend of botanical butters and oils and a lavender-based blend of essential oils. This combination of ingredients is sure to provide you with a soothing pain relief.
Hemp Bombs
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Isolate
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
200 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$25.00
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.13 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Hemp Bombs’ premium CBD is incorporated into their roll-on formula with a total of 200 mg. Admittedly, this is a fairly low amount and may not be ideal for all users. However, the 4% menthol incorporated here really helps to provide further and immediate relief – making this one of the best CBD roll-ons on the market.
Koi CBD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Broad-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
500 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$39.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.08 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
0.0%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Our coupon doesn't work on official Koi CBD website
No potency or scent options
Koi CBD’s Roll-on for Pain made our list due to its incorporation of 10% menthol. This goes way beyond what most brands offer and is certain to give you an instant cooling effect. On top of that, this roll-on also contains 500 mg of broad-spectrum CBD along with a number of other all-natural ingredients to provide a smoothing effect.
Batch CBD
Specifications
Extract Type
Type of extract, dependent on the cannabis plant component present in the product.
Full-spectrum
Total CBD Range
The CBD amount available for a product option.
1250 mg
Potency Range
Potency of the product, can also be called "strength".
Not identified
Price Range
Price range of applicable products.
$49.99
Value ($/mg)
Cost of CBD per milligram in dollars, used to calculate product value.
$0.04 per mg
THC Content
Amount of THC that is present in the product.
<0.3%
Lab Report
The verified reports of a product's test results.
Free shipping only available on orders of $25 or more
Lab reports are outdated
Batch CBD offers two unique formulas of a CBD Balm Stick, the “Original” and the “Fire & Ice.” The Original is great for calming irritated areas (i.e. acne, inflammation) as it incorporates lavender and tea tree oils. On the other hand, Fire & Ice is made with menthol and camphor to provide you with more pain relief. Both topicals come with 1250 mg of full-spectrum CBD.
While CBD roll-ons are not meant to treat, cure, or prevent any health condition, they may be able to provide therapeutic relief while you undergo traditional treatment options.
What are the Benefits of Topical CBD?
CBD topical roll-ons are widely recognized for their pain-relieving properties. While more research is needed, many believe CBD could serve as a therapeutic alternative to other pain relievers.
For certain types of pain, a CBD topical is ideal because it targets specific areas. If you experience muscle pain, applying a roll-on directly to the affected muscle may offer more relief than other forms of CBD.
CBD Topicals for Pain
For conditions like neurpathic pain, a CBD pain relief roll-on may help. Still, products that affect the entire body—such as tinctures, gummies, or capsules—might be more effective.
CBD topicals, however, may provide relief for the following conditions:
Other cannabinoids may also support pain relief. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is highly effective for difficult-to-treat pain, while cannabigerol (CBG) has shown promise in reducing pain and inflammation.
Can a CBD Roll-On Help With Chronic Pain?
A CBD roll-on stick may help manage chronic pain by delivering targeted relief. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can ease discomfort caused by conditions like arthritis, back pain, and sciatica. Many users report that regular application reduces stiffness and promotes mobility.
For severe or widespread chronic pain, combining a CBD roll-on with oral CBD (i.e. tinctures or gummies) may provide more comprehensive relief.
Can I Use CBD Roll-On After a Workout?
Yes! A CBD roll-on is a great post-workout recovery tool. Applying it to sore muscles may help reduce inflammation, ease tension, and promote faster recovery. Many CBD roll-ons contain menthol, which provides a cooling effect that soothes tired muscles.
Because a CBD topical roll-on is mess-free and easy to use, you can apply it immediately after a workout—whether at the gym, on a hike, or after a long run.
Other CBD Consumption Methods
If a CBD roll-on isn’t providing enough relief, you might want to explore other options. The CBD market offers a variety of products designed for different needs and preferences.
Oils – A liquid extract placed under the tongue for fast absorption and high bioavailability.
Gummies – A tasty, chewable option that provides a slow, steady release of CBD.
Capsules – A convenient, pre-measured dose of CBD in pill form, ideal for daily use.
Vapes – Delivers immediate effects by inhaling vaporized CBD.
Drinks – Infused beverages (i.e. teas, coffees, and energy drinks) for a refreshing way to consume CBD.
Patches – Transfermal patches that release CBD gradually for long-lasting relief.
Suppositories – Designed for targeted absorption, often used for severe pain or gastrointestinal issues.
Flower– The raw, smokable form of hemp, offering a full-spectrum CBD experience.
With so many options available, choosing the right method depends on your specific needs. However, when it comes to localized pain relief, CBD topicals remain the best choice—offering targeted relief without affecting the rest of the body.
Safety & Side Effects of CBD Roll-ons for Pain
CBD roll-ons are generally safe for all skin types when used properly. It’s best to apply them no more than once every eight hours to prevent irritation.
Like other supplements, CBD may cause mild side effects in some users, including:
Diarrhea
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Fatigue
Reduced appetite
These effects are uncommon and typically mild. However, other ingredients in CBD roll-ons, such as menthol, may cause temporary skin irritation, including redness, stinging, or a burning sensation.
If you take prescription medications, consult your doctor before using CBD to avoid potential drug interactions. Additionally, pregnant or lactating women should avoid CBD due to limited research on its safety in these cases.
Will an Infused Roll-On Make Me High?
No, a CBD roll-on will not make you high. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, meaning it does not produce the intoxicating effects associated with THC. Even if your roll-on contains full-spectrum CBD (which includes trace amounts of THC), topical application does not allow THC to enter the bloodstream in significant amounts.
Will I Feel Sleepy After Using a Hemp Roll-On?
CBD is known for its calming effects, but a roll-on is unlikely to make you feel sleepy. Since topicals work locally on the skin and muscles, they don’t typically reach the bloodstream in amounts that would cause drowsiness. However, if your roll-on contains additional ingredients (i.e. lavender or chamomile), it may promote relaxation.
Will a CBD Roll On Appear on a Drug Test?
Most drug tests check for THC, not CBD. Therefore, it’s unlikely that a CBD roll-on will cause a failed test. However, full-spectrum CBD products contain trace amounts of THC, which could accumulate with frequent use.
To minimize risk, choose a broad-spectrum CBD roll-on stick or one made with CBD isolate, as these formulations are THC-free.
How to Choose the Best CBD Roll-On for Pain
To help you choose the best CBD roll-on for pain, we used the following criteria when creating our list.
Certificate of Analysis
A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is a third-party lab test that confirms the quality and safety of a CBD product. It outlines the cannabinoid profile, verifies the absence of contaminants, and ensures potency. Always choose a CBD roll-on from brands that provide this transparency.
Customer Reviews
Customer feedback can help you determine whether a product works effectively. Look for reviews on the CBD roll-on to understand how others have benefited from it. High-quality reviews will give you insights into its performance, quality, and overall effectiveness.
Full-Spectrum – Contains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds from hemp, with less than 0.3% THC.
Broad-Spectrum – Similar to full-spectrum, but without the THC.
CBD Isolate – Pure CBD, free of other cannabinoids and compounds.
Hemp Source
The quality of CBD largely depends on the source of hemp. We recommend choosing CBD roll-ons for pain made from USA-grown hemp. If you’re purchasing from the United Kingdom, we recommend European-grown hemp. It’s also a plus if the company manages the entire process, from seed to shelf, and practices organic farming.
Ingredients
In addition to CBD, roll-ons often include ingredients like menthol, camphor, or other essential oils that provide additional pain-relieving benefits. Always check the ingredient list to ensure there are no allergens or harmful additives, particularly if you have sensitive skin.
Potency & Pricing
Potency is usually measured in milligrams (mg) of CBD. Higher potency often leads to more effective pain relief. If you’re new to CBD, consider starting with lower potency, while more experienced users may prefer higher concentrations.
Pricing varies depending on potency, but some brands offer ways to save, such as promo codes, subscriptions, or assistance programs. These can help make CBD pain relief roll-ons more affordable.
Paul James is a seasoned cannabis and CBD writer and expert. He is a mental health blogger who advocates CBD as a natural alternative to prescription medications. You can read more about this and other natural alternatives on his blog: https://bedlamite.co/."
Frequently Asked Questions
CBD roll-ons should be applied directly to the area most affecting you. For example, if you’re experiencing pain in the lower back, you should rub the CBD roll-on into the lower back, targeting the pain.
CBD roll-ons should not be used more than once within a 6-hour period. It’s recommended you only use it twice a day at most, whenever your pain is most affecting you.
Most CBD roll-ons produce their effects within 15 minutes. However, some are designed for instant relief, such as those that incorporate menthol.
CBD roll-ons are generally safe for sensitive skin, but it’s always best to check the ingredient list for any allergens or irritants. Opting for a product with natural ingredients and minimal additives can help reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Yes, CBD roll-ons can generally be used alongside other pain relief treatments, such as heat or cold therapy. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re using prescription pain medications to avoid potential interactions.