Use Cannabis as an Effective Treatment For Chronic Pain

Recently, the CDC announced hosting a series of conversations regarding alternative pain management techniques to opioid-based medications. And, more patients want to talk about cannabis.

Cannabis use among patients with chronic pain is on the rise. The herb is available in different forms, such as flowers, concentrates, edibles, etc. in different strengths. Thus, patients can buy cannabis products based on their customized needs. To buy marijuana legally, it’s necessary to get a medical marijuana card Huntington Beach signed by a licensed doctor.

Traditional Treatments For Chronic Pain

Opioid Medications

Opioids are usually prescribed for managing chronic pain. They work by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain and other parts of the body. Opioid drugs can help ease moderate to severe pain. Some of the common opioid-based medications are-

Codeine
Fentanyl
Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone/acetaminophen
Hydromorphone
Meperidine
Methadone

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is becoming a popular chronic pain treatment. Medical studies have found that this method can help ease pain associated with fibromyalgia, back injuries, osteoarthritis, etc.

The acupuncture technique involves inserting fine needles at various points in the body. The needles help in the healing process and ease the pain. However, acupuncture works by releasing the pain-numbing chemicals or may block pain signals from the nerves.

Massage

Massage therapy is helpful in relieving pain, anxiety, stress, and depression, thus promoting overall wellness. It usually involves pressing certain muscle groups using fingertips and hands. There are different types of massage techniques available, such as deep tissue massage and hot stone massage. Research says that massage can help alleviate pain and inflammation without causing any side-effects.

Marijuana For Chronic Pain Management

Marijuana can help ease pain effectively and naturally. Medical studies have found that the herb can be used for treating pain caused by various conditions, such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, cancer, nerve damage, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Cannabis’ medicinal properties are due to the presence of chemical compounds, such as THC and CBD. THC binds to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, such as CB1 and CB2, thus controlling the sensations of pain. By selecting the right amount and potency of THC, you can alleviate your symptoms completely.

According to a review related to cannabis use for treating different pain conditions, several trials showed positive results. Researchers noted that cannabis compounds are helpful in alleviating some types of chronic pain, such as neuropathy.

In the United States, dronabinol and nabilone have been approved by the FDA for managing vomiting and nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy.

Many patients prefer using CBD-infused oils, creams, tinctures, etc. to get relief without experiencing psychoactive effects associated with THC.

CBD is packed with amazing pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. According to a study published in Neurotherapeutics, CBD is effective in activating/inhibiting certain chemical compounds in the endocannabinoid system. For instance, it stops the reabsorption of anandamide, thus reducing pain and boosting wellness.

Both THC and CBD act differently in the body. So, you should carefully check concentrations of these cannabinoids when buying cannabis products.

Additionally, checking terpene levels is important. They are chemical compounds that affect the aroma and taste of marijuana. Research shows that terpenes can play a key role in influencing the marijuana effects on the body and mind.

According to a study published in the Journal of Headaches Pain, cannabis with myrcene and caryophyllene helped in easing headaches, migraines, and pain linked to other medical conditions.

Cannabis vs Opioids

Opioid drugs are commonly used for easing pain. However, they carry certain health risks. For instance, they are addictive and can cause withdrawal symptoms. Other side-effects of opioids are—constipation, nausea, sedation, drowsiness, slowed breathing, and vomiting.

On the other hand, marijuana provides natural effects. Cannabis products aren’t addictive. Medical researchers have conducted a series of surveys and studies on marijuana and opioid use for pain management. Here are some of them-

A survey on 3000 medical marijuana users reported that 30 percent of the participants consumed opioids in the past 6 months. However, 81 percent of the users said that marijuana was more effective when used alone than mixing it with opioids.

A research paper published in 2016 reported that marijuana consumption helped a 64 percent reduction in opioid use. Additionally, the herb improved the quality of life.

Top Cannabis Strains for Chronic Pain Patients

To ease pain, you must consume the right cannabis products. That means they should contain the right levels of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD. Here are some of the best marijuana strains for chronic pain patients-

ACDC

A Sativa-dominant strain with medical benefits, such as pain relief, anxiety relief, multiple sclerosis, etc. It can also be used for managing side-effects associated with chemotherapy. Its high-CBD levels deliver calming effects and negligible euphoric effects. Consuming this strain frequently can help you boost focus, pleasure, and happiness.

Afghan Kush

Afghan Kush is about 100 percent Indica, which works perfectly for patients looking for pain relief. It contains terpenes, which have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. Afghan Kush has caryophyllene, which is effective for cancer patients.

Blue Dream

Blue Dream is perfect for managing pain, anxiety, and nausea. It has 17-25 percent of THC content, which causes strong psychoactive effects. Some users say that this strain is effective in boosting focus and creativity levels.

Dosage plays a key role. So, make sure you dose Blue Dream right to receive the desired health benefits. Start slow and evaluate the effects. Talk to a licensed doctor for professional help if possible.

Northern Lights

It contains THC content of about 16.5 percent, which is responsible for delivering the ultimate high effects. It’s effective in relaxing the body and mind. Northern Lights is perfect for patients with sleep problems, anxiety, depression, and pain. This strain generates feelings of happiness and pleasure when you consume it. If you are a beginner, start with a low dose. High doses may lead to side-effects, such as dry mouth, dizziness, etc.

Buy Cannabis Legally For Pain Management

In the United States, people use cannabis for both medical and recreational purposes. However, medical users enjoy more benefits over recreational users. To use medical marijuana legally, you must have an MMJ card signed by a licensed doctor. With telemedicine, it has become easier to apply for a medical marijuana card Huntington Beach. Here’s the complete process-

Sign up an account
Talk to a licensed doctor through HIPAA-compliant software
Receive MMJ recs in PDF via email

Final Thoughts

Cannabis is a safer alternative to opioid medications for pain management. It’s not addictive and doesn’t cause any unpleasant side-effects as prescription pain medications. When you consume marijuana, its chemical compounds attach to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, thus managing pain.

Medical studies have shown that cannabis for pain management works effectively and naturally. By choosing the right strains, dosage, and delivery methods, patients can ease pain related to various conditions, such as fibromyalgia, arthritis, etc. Talk to your doctor to seek professional advice for using cannabis for managing chronic pain.

Apply for your medical marijuana card Huntington Beach to buy, possess, and use cannabis for pain management legally.