CBD can play a significant role in strengthening your bones, thanks to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, which is vital for maintaining bone health. By stimulating the activity of osteoblasts—cells responsible for building bone—CBD helps increase bone density and promotes effective repair of any damage. This is particularly important because as we age, bone density tends to decrease, leading to conditions like osteoporosis.
Furthermore, CBD is known to reduce inflammation. Chronic inflammation can harm bone health and hinder the body's ability to regenerate bone tissue. By keeping inflammation in check, CBD supports a healthier environment for bone growth. It also aids in collagen formation, which is essential for bone strength and flexibility.
Another key aspect of CBD's benefits is its ability to activate CB2 receptors in the body. This action helps maintain a balance between the cells that build bone and those that break it down, ensuring that your bones stay strong and healthy over time. Recent studies have shown promising results, suggesting that CBD could be a valuable ally in promoting bone health, especially for those concerned about bone density issues.
If you're considering incorporating CBD into your routine for better bone health, look for high-quality CBD oils or capsules, preferably those that have been third-party tested for purity and potency. Products with a higher concentration of CBD may offer more pronounced benefits. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to tailor it to your specific needs.
Key Takeaways
CBD plays an important role in helping our bones stay healthy and strong. One of the key ways it does this is by boosting the activity of osteoblasts. These are the cells responsible for forming new bone. When osteoblasts are active, they contribute to increased bone density and strength, which is crucial as we age or if we're dealing with bone-related issues.
Additionally, CBD helps keep our bones intact by reducing markers of bone resorption, which is the process where bone is broken down. By slowing this process, CBD helps maintain bone mass and prevents the loss of bone density that can lead to conditions like osteoporosis. This is especially important for those who may be at risk of fractures or have experienced bone loss in the past.
Furthermore, CBD has impressive anti-inflammatory properties that promote healthier bone tissue. Healthy bone tissue is essential for regeneration and repair, allowing our bodies to recover from injuries more effectively. Imagine you've sprained your ankle or fractured a bone; having strong and healthy bone tissue means quicker healing times and less discomfort.
Another fascinating aspect of CBD is how it interacts with our body's endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB2 receptors. When CBD activates these receptors, it helps balance the processes of bone formation and resorption. This balance is critical for maintaining robust bone health over time.
Long-term use of CBD is associated with increased bone mineral density too. This means that the bones not only become denser but also stronger, reducing the risk of fractures and supporting overall skeletal health.
If you're considering adding CBD to your routine for bone health, look for high-quality products like CBD oils or capsules that specifically mention bone health benefits. Brands like Charlotte's Web or NuLeaf Naturals are known for their transparency and quality, ensuring you're getting a product that could genuinely support your bone health journey. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health concerns.
The Endocannabinoid System Explained
The endocannabinoid system, or ECS, is crucial for keeping your body in balance. Think of it as your body's internal management team, working to ensure everything runs smoothly. The ECS is made up of endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes that team up to maintain homeostasis. Your body naturally produces endocannabinoids like anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
These substances attach to CB1 and CB2 receptors, which are like locks that the endocannabinoids fit into. You'll mostly find CB1 receptors in your brain, where they help manage pain and mood. On the other hand, CB2 receptors are mainly in your immune system and peripheral nervous system, playing a key role in immune responses. CB2 receptors are primarily found in immune tissues, aiding in immune regulation and inflammation control.
So, why is this important? The ECS helps regulate a bunch of bodily functions, like temperature control, appetite, and inflammation. When endocannabinoids latch onto their receptors, they trigger actions that help restore balance. For example, if you're feeling too hot, the ECS can help your body cool down. This quick feedback loop is what allows you to adapt to changes in your environment, keeping things just right.
After endocannabinoids do their job, enzymes like fatty acid amide hydrolase and monoacylglycerol acid lipase break them down. This is vital because it prevents the system from overreacting or getting out of control.
The ECS's ability to facilitate communication between different cell types is essential for your overall health and well-being. By understanding how this intricate system works, you can better appreciate its impact on your daily life and explore potential therapeutic options, such as CBD products, which interact with the ECS to promote balance and wellness.
CBD and Fracture Healing
When it comes to healing fractures, CBD has emerged as a promising companion in recovery. Research suggests that CBD can significantly improve the healing timeline, particularly during the later stages of recovery.
Let's dive into three key advantages of using CBD for fracture healing:
- Boosting Bone Strength: CBD plays a crucial role in enhancing the formation of the collagen matrix in bones, which in turn increases bone mineral density. This means that over time, your bones become tougher and more resilient, helping to prevent future fractures. Additionally, diseases like osteoporosis can increase fracture risk, making CBD's role even more vital for at-risk individuals.
- Increasing Osteoblast Activity: These are the cells responsible for creating new bone tissue, and CBD has been shown to increase their numbers on the bone surface. This is essential for all types of fractures, as having more osteoblasts means your body can repair itself more effectively and efficiently.
- Speeding Up Mineral Absorption: CBD can help your body absorb minerals more quickly. This is important because minerals like calcium and phosphorus are vital for healthy bone growth and repair. The faster your body can utilize these minerals, the stronger and healthier your bones will become.
Animal studies have shown that CBD can significantly enhance the healing process, particularly for midfemoral fractures. By promoting bone volume and mineral density, CBD can lead to the formation of strong, functional bone.
This makes CBD a valuable option for managing pain related to fractures without hindering the healing journey. As more research unfolds, CBD might change how we approach recovery, helping ensure that bones heal stronger and allowing for a quicker return to your favorite activities.
If you're considering incorporating CBD into your recovery plan, look for high-quality products that contain full-spectrum CBD for the best results. Brands like Charlotte's Web or Medterra offer reputable options that many users have found beneficial.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you're recovering from an injury.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of CBD
CBD is gaining attention for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially when it comes to supporting bone health. This is particularly important for individuals dealing with conditions like osteoporosis or those who are recovering from fractures. When inflammation occurs in bone tissue, it can lead to serious issues like bone loss and increased risk of fractures. CBD helps tackle this problem by reducing inflammation, which in turn promotes better tissue repair and regeneration.
What's particularly interesting is how CBD enhances bone cell function. This means it helps our bones metabolize nutrients more effectively and reduces inflammation, which is especially beneficial for people with osteoporosis. By maintaining bone density and preventing deterioration, CBD plays a crucial role in recovery and overall bone health, particularly after injuries. Research has shown that cannabinoids promote both pain relief and healing, further emphasizing their role in bone recovery.
Unlike traditional anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs, which can sometimes hinder the body's natural healing processes, CBD manages to reduce inflammation without getting in the way of healing.
Another significant advantage of CBD is its ability to speed up mineral absorption, which is vital for strengthening newly formed bone and preventing defects. When we compare CBD to NSAIDs, it not only manages pain effectively but also does so with fewer drawbacks for bone healing and without any addictive properties.
By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can help regulate the genes involved in fracture healing and overall bone health.
For those looking to incorporate CBD into their bone health routine, products like CBD oils or capsules from reputable brands such as Charlotte's Web or CBDistillery could be great options. These products are known for their quality and effectiveness.
Role of Cannabinoid Receptors
When we talk about bone health, cannabinoid receptors really make a difference. For instance, when the CB2 receptors are activated, they help boost bone density by encouraging the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone. At the same time, they keep osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone, in check. This balance is crucial because maintaining a healthy bone density can prevent issues like osteoporosis later in life. Research indicates that cannabinoids may enhance the repair mechanisms post-fracture, further demonstrating their potential impact on bone health. On the flip side, inhibiting the GPR55 receptor can further enhance bone strength. This shows just how interconnected these receptors are in keeping our bones healthy. Understanding this relationship is important because it opens the door to potential treatments that could harness these receptors to promote better bone health. For example, some researchers are exploring cannabinoid-based products that could help improve bone density in those at risk of fractures.
CB2 Receptor Activation
CB2 Receptor Activation (Role of Cannabinoid Receptors)
Cannabinoid receptors are crucial for maintaining bone health, especially the CB2 receptor. When this receptor is activated, it does wonders for bone formation and helps keep your skeletal structure strong.
Let's dive into three major benefits of activating the CB2 receptor:
- Stimulating Bone Development: Activating the CB2 receptor encourages the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, which are vital for developing new bone tissue. This process is essential because it helps ensure that your bones can grow and repair themselves effectively. Furthermore, studies indicate a link between CB2 and bone mass regulation, highlighting its importance in effective bone maintenance.
- Enhancing Bone Cell Activity: Through the pathways activated by the CB2 receptor, we see an increase in the proliferation and activity of osteoblasts—these are the cells responsible for forming new bone. When osteoblasts are more active, it leads to the formation of bone nodules, which are crucial for building a healthy bone matrix.
- Preventing Bone Loss: One of the significant advantages of CB2 receptor activation is its role in preventing age-related bone loss. By maintaining a healthy balance between bone formation and resorption, it helps to keep your bones dense and strong as you get older.
Research indicates that using CB2-selective agonists can significantly enhance bone volume, particularly in conditions like postmenopausal osteoporosis and arthritis.
For instance, the osteogenic growth peptide (OGP) interacts with the CB2 receptor, promoting a healthy skeletal tone and supporting overall bone health. This interaction is vital because it ensures that your bones remain resilient and capable of handling the stresses of daily life as you age.
Incorporating products that promote CB2 receptor activation, such as certain CBD oils or supplements, may be beneficial for those looking to support their bone health.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your health goals.
GPR55 Inhibition Effects
GPR55 mightn't get as much attention as the more famous CB1 and CB2 receptors, but it plays a crucial role in bone health and neurological issues. One of the interesting things about CBD is that it has a strong ability to bind to GPR55, acting as an antagonist. This action is important because GPR55 is involved in key processes like cell growth and development, which are vital for maintaining healthy bones.
When it comes to epilepsy, GPR55 can actually increase the excitability of neurons, making seizures more likely. Fortunately, CBD is effective at inhibiting GPR55, which is one reason it has antiepileptic properties. By blocking GPR55, CBD helps to calm down neuron activity, and this can also have a positive impact on memory and cognitive functions, particularly in the CA1 region of the hippocampus, a crucial area for learning and memory. Moreover, CBD's role in reducing seizure frequency offers additional insights into its therapeutic potential.
This relationship between GPR55 inhibition and the broader effects of CBD really highlights its potential as a therapeutic option. Understanding how GPR55 works can shed light on how CBD supports not just bone health but also neurological well-being.
As researchers continue to dive deeper into this receptor, we may discover even more about how CBD can be used to treat a variety of conditions effectively.
For those interested in exploring CBD products, consider options like full-spectrum CBD oils or capsules that specifically mention GPR55 modulation in their descriptions, as these may offer enhanced benefits for both bone health and neurological support.
Enhancing Bone Density
Are you looking for ways to boost your bone density? You might want to consider CBD. Recent studies have highlighted its potential benefits for bone health, and here's why it's worth your attention.
First off, CBD has been shown to reduce bone resorption markers by about 18.3%. This means it could help your body maintain more bone mass, which is crucial for keeping your bones strong and healthy. The more bone mineral density (BMD) you have, the less likely you're to experience fractures or osteoporosis as you age. Research indicates that cannabinoids can inhibit bone resorption, further supporting the idea that CBD may contribute positively to bone health.
Another fascinating aspect of CBD is its interaction with CB2 receptors in the body. When these receptors are activated, it promotes the activity of osteoblasts—these are the cells responsible for building new bone. At the same time, CBD helps keep osteoclast activity in check, which is important because osteoclasts are the cells that break down bone. This balance between bone formation and resorption is key to maintaining robust bone density.
Chronic inflammation is another enemy of bone health, leading to deterioration and increased risk of injury. Thankfully, CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that can help mitigate this issue, reducing inflammation in bone tissue and creating a healthier environment for your bones to thrive.
So, how can you incorporate CBD into your routine? Options range from oils and capsules to gummies and topical creams. For instance, if you prefer a quick and easy solution, CBD gummies can be a tasty way to get your daily dose.
Always opt for high-quality products from reputable brands to ensure you're getting the best possible benefits.
As research into CBD continues, it's becoming clearer that this compound has a vital role in supporting bone health. If you're concerned about maintaining strong bones as you age, adding CBD to your wellness regimen might just be the boost you need.
CBD's Strengthening Effects
When you look into how CBD can boost bone health, you'll discover that it enhances the activity of osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for creating new bone. This is important because stronger osteoblast activity leads to increased bone density, making your bones tougher and more resistant to fractures.
For example, studies have shown that people who incorporate CBD into their routine often report fewer issues with bone-related conditions. Moreover, CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help maintain healthy bone tissue over time. By reducing inflammation, CBD helps prevent the breakdown of bone, supporting long-term bone health. Recent research indicates that the skeletal endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in regulating bone homeostasis.
Enhanced Osteoblast Activity
CBD has shown impressive potential in enhancing osteoblast activity, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones. By promoting the growth of osteoblasts—those cells responsible for bone formation—CBD helps to build a sturdier skeletal structure.
Let's explore three significant benefits of this increased osteoblast activity:
- More Osteoblasts for Better Bone Formation: When CBD is introduced, it increases the number of osteoblasts on the surface of bones. This means your body can produce bone tissue more efficiently, leading to healthier bones overall.
- Stronger Collagen Support: CBD plays a role in enhancing the expression of a specific mRNA called _Plod1_. This gene is vital because it helps create an enzyme that strengthens collagen—the protein that forms the backbone of bone structure. With better collagen stabilization, your bones can better support new minerals, making them denser and more robust. Additionally, CBD has been shown to enhance fracture healing by improving biomechanical properties in studies involving rat models.
- Improved Bone Strength and Resilience: With more active osteoblasts, the biomechanical properties of healed bones improve significantly. This means that your bones can withstand stress and pressure better, reducing the likelihood of fractures.
Additionally, CBD interacts with CB2 receptors found in osteoblasts, which encourages bone-building processes while limiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone. This balance is key to preserving bone mass and preventing loss.
The enhanced collagen crosslinking—evidenced through techniques like FTIR spectroscopy—also contributes to the overall quality of newly formed bone, making it stronger and healthier.
If you're looking to support your bone health, consider incorporating high-quality CBD products into your routine. Options like CBD oils or capsules can be effective.
Increased Bone Density
How does CBD help boost bone density? Research has shown that CBD plays a crucial role in the process of bone remodeling, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones. It does this by reducing bone resorption and promoting bone formation. Specifically, CBD interacts with GPR55 signaling and activates CB2 receptors, leading to a decrease in osteoclast activity—the cells responsible for breaking down bone tissue. This is especially important for managing osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and more prone to fractures, as it helps correct the imbalance that usually occurs between bone resorption and formation.
Let's break down how CBD impacts bone density:
- Inhibition of Resorption: By modulating GPR55 and CB2 receptors, CBD effectively reduces the activity of osteoclasts. This means less bone is broken down, which is vital for maintaining bone mass.
- Improved Healing: CBD encourages the improvement of the collagenous matrix in bones. A stronger collagen matrix contributes to increased toughness and strength, making bones less likely to fracture. Moreover, research indicates that osteopenia affects approximately 50% of women over 50, highlighting the importance of addressing bone health in this population.
- Increased Volume: When combined with beta-caryophyllene, a compound found in some essential oils, CBD can have synergistic effects that lead to a higher bone volume and density. This is crucial for overall bone health.
- Long-term Benefits: Regular CBD treatment has been linked to increased bone mineral density (BMD) over time. This is particularly beneficial for individuals at risk for fractures, as maintaining BMD is key to preventing breaks.
Studies suggest that sticking with a consistent CBD regimen can lead to meaningful improvements in bone density and volume. For those dealing with osteoporosis or looking to enhance their bone health naturally, CBD shows great promise.
As with any supplement, it's wise to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for individual needs.
Reduced Inflammation Effects
CBD has some impressive anti-inflammatory properties that can significantly enhance bone health. Chronic inflammation is a major factor contributing to bone loss and fractures, particularly in conditions like osteoporosis. By tackling inflammation, CBD creates a better environment for bones to grow and heal.
Let's break down a few ways CBD can make a difference:
- Boosting Bone Cell Function: CBD promotes the health of bone cells, which is crucial for bone regeneration. Healthy bone cells are essential for maintaining strong bones, and CBD seems to encourage their growth.
- Speeding Up Healing: When it comes to recovering from fractures, inflammation can slow down the healing process. CBD helps reduce this inflammation, allowing for a smoother and faster recovery.
- Protecting Bone Density: Research shows that CBD can lower markers indicating bone resorption, which suggests it has a protective effect on bone density. Keeping your bones dense is vital for preventing fractures and maintaining overall bone health. In fact, over 3 million people in the UK are estimated to have osteoporosis, highlighting the importance of effective treatments.
CBD works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, particularly the CB1 and CB2 receptors located in bone tissue. This interaction helps modulate inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance the healing process of bones.
Some studies have even found that CBD can aid in forming specialized bone cells, which can lead to increased bone volume and mineral density.
If you're considering incorporating CBD into your routine for bone health, look for high-quality products like full-spectrum CBD oils or capsules. These can be effective in delivering the benefits you're seeking.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications. By reducing inflammation and supporting bone health, CBD could be a valuable addition to your wellness strategy.
Future Directions in Research
The future of research on CBD and its potential benefits for bone health looks very promising. As scientists delve deeper into how CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, we may uncover new ways it can help with bone healing. One crucial aspect to explore is how CBD can stimulate osteoblast activity, which is essential for bone formation, while also reducing bone resorption—essentially preventing the breakdown of bone—through its action on CB2 receptors. Recent findings suggest that cannabinoids promote both pain management and healing, which could further enhance their therapeutic potential.
It's also important to look at how different factors like strain, age, and sex influence the effectiveness of CBD in rodent models. These insights could shape how we apply CBD in real-world clinical settings, allowing for more personalized treatment plans. To truly understand CBD's impact on bone health, we need more studies involving humans. This step is vital to see how the results from animal studies translate to people and to confirm the efficacy of CBD in enhancing bone healing.
Another area worth focusing on is the development of clinical formulations. Researchers should work on finding the right dosages and consider combining CBD with other cannabinoids for potentially better outcomes. Long-term studies on safety and effectiveness are essential as well, ensuring that CBD can be a reliable option for treating bone fractures. By exploring these different avenues, we can significantly advance our understanding of how CBD can benefit bone health in practical ways.
Clinical Applications of CBD
CBD is gaining attention for its wide-ranging therapeutic benefits, making it a promising choice in several medical fields. Let's explore three key areas where CBD is showing great potential:
1. Seizure Management: One of the most compelling uses of CBD is in the treatment of seizures, particularly for severe forms like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Clinical trials have confirmed its effectiveness as an anticonvulsant, leading to the FDA approving Epidiolex, a CBD-based medication. This approval underscores CBD's ability to significantly reduce the frequency of seizures, offering hope to patients who may not find relief from traditional medications.
2. Pain Management: CBD is also emerging as a powerful ally in managing pain, especially chronic neuropathic pain and inflammation. In a review of 11 randomized controlled trials, researchers found that CBD can provide pain relief without leading to increased tolerance over time. This means that patients can use it long-term without needing to increase their doses, which is a common issue with many pain medications.
For those suffering from conditions like arthritis or multiple sclerosis, CBD could be a valuable part of their pain management strategy. Products like CBD oils or topical creams can be effective options for localized pain relief.
3. Anxiety and Mental Health**: There's a growing body of research indicating that CBD might help alleviate anxiety and improve mood disorders**. Early studies show promise in its ability to reduce anxiety levels, making it a potential option for individuals dealing with stress or cognitive difficulties.
While clinical trials are still in progress, the initial findings are encouraging. For those interested, products such as CBD gummies or capsules offer an easy and discreet way to incorporate CBD into their daily routine.
As we continue to learn more about CBD and its applications, it's clear that this compound has the potential to address a variety of health challenges. With ongoing research, we're likely to see even more ways that CBD can enhance therapeutic options in the future.
FAQ
Can CBD Cause Any Side Effects Related to Bone Health?
CBD can have some mild side effects that may impact bone health. For instance, if you take higher doses, you might notice changes in your appetite, feel more fatigued, or experience some digestive discomfort.
The quality of the CBD product you choose is crucial; not all products are created equal. It's important to consider where your CBD comes from and how much you're taking.
If you have any pre-existing bone health issues, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional before starting CBD. They can help you determine if it's a safe option for you and guide you on the appropriate dosage.
This is especially important because understanding how CBD interacts with your body can help you make informed choices about your health. Always prioritize your well-being and seek advice tailored to your individual needs.
Is CBD Legal for Bone Health Treatment in All States?
CBD legality can be quite complicated and varies from state to state. While federal law allows for hemp-derived CBD, individual states have their own rules that can limit its use.
For instance, some states may permit CBD for medical purposes, but they mightn't specifically include treatments related to bone health. This distinction is crucial because if you're considering CBD to support bone health, you need to ensure it's allowed in your state.
It's a good idea to stay informed about the laws in your area. For example, states like California and Colorado have more comprehensive regulations that allow for broader use of CBD, whereas states like Idaho have very strict limitations.
Consulting with healthcare professionals can also help you navigate these regulations effectively. They can provide guidance on whether CBD is appropriate for your situation and help you understand how to use it safely and legally.
Always double-check your local laws before proceeding, as staying compliant is important for your health and peace of mind.
How Should CBD Be Administered for Optimal Bone Healing?
When it comes to using CBD for bone healing, think of it as a supportive ally in your recovery journey. There are several ways to take CBD, including oral supplements like capsules or oils, injections, and topical applications like creams or balms. Each method has its advantages, but research suggests that injections might offer the most effective results for bone health.
Starting with a lower dose of CBD is important. This allows your body to adjust and lets you find the right amount that works for you. It's a good idea to maintain a consistent daily routine with your CBD intake, as this can help you maximize its potential benefits.
Just like watering a garden regularly helps it thrive, regular CBD use supports your bones in becoming stronger and healing more effectively.
For those looking for specific product recommendations, consider a high-quality CBD oil with a concentration of around 10-30 mg per serving. Brands like Charlotte's Web or Lazarus Naturals are known for their reliable products.
If you prefer topical applications, look for a lotion or balm with CBD infused, which can be applied directly to the area needing attention. This method allows you to target discomfort while promoting overall healing.
Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment to ensure it fits your personal health needs.
Are There Dietary Considerations When Using CBD for Bone Strength?
When you're thinking about using CBD to boost your bone strength, it's important to pay attention to what you eat, especially your sources of dietary fats and calcium.
Healthy fats are crucial because they help your body absorb CBD more effectively, which means you can get the most out of its benefits. Foods like avocados, nuts, and olive oil are excellent choices to include in your meals.
On the other hand, calcium is vital for maintaining strong bones. You should aim to incorporate plenty of calcium-rich foods into your diet. Think about adding leafy greens like kale and spinach, dairy products such as yogurt and cheese, or fortified plant-based alternatives like almond or soy milk.
When you combine a diet rich in healthy fats and calcium with CBD, you're not just supporting your bone health; you're also enhancing the potential effectiveness of CBD in promoting bone healing and strength.
It's all about creating a balanced diet that works in harmony with CBD to help your body thrive.
Can CBD Interact With Other Medications Affecting Bone Health?
Navigating the world of medications can be tricky, especially when considering how CBD might interact with what you're already taking. It's essential to think about these interactions because they can influence your overall treatment plan.
For instance, if you're using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormone therapies, CBD might actually enhance their effectiveness. This is crucial to understand because it opens up possibilities for better pain relief or hormonal balance.
However, it's important to have a conversation with your healthcare provider before adding CBD to your routine. They can help you figure out what works best for you, ensuring that everything fits together smoothly.