Medical Marijuana and Chronic Pain Management The World Health Organization estimates 20% of people worldwide have a form of chronic pain. The symptoms of which range from fibromyalgia to back and neck pain to chronic fatigue and more. Treatments for chronic pain include prescription medication and opioids, but what if there was a better way? The relationship between medical marijuana and chronic pain is well established. Back in 2010, a Canadian team found that “three puffs a day of cannabis […] helps people with chronic nerve pain due to injury or surgery feel less pain and sleep better”. Now, in 2017, recent studies continue to find the same results. In fact, there are over 28 studies that review cannabis as an alternative to treating chronic pain. Additionally, chronic pain is a qualifying medical condition for the NY State Medical Marijuana Program as of March 2017. So why is medical marijuana a better alternative to pain management? There are three main reasons:
Medical marijuana improves quality of life Chronic pain is persistent and linked with depression and feelings of hopelessness. This results in a decreased quality of life. However, proper pain therapy is proven to reduce these symptoms. Medical marijuana, for example, reduces pain to a more manageable level. Subsequently, this increases mobility and comfort for the patient.
Decreases side effects from other medications Many patients with chronic pain have to suffer through daily side effects of their medication. These side effects range from sedation and dizziness to nausea and constipation, even respiratory issues. This affects quality of life and makes patients less willing to take medication for fear of the side effects. Cannabis, however, does not cause such horrible side effects. In fact, the side effects most experienced by cannabis patients is dry mouth, red eyes, sleepiness and hunger – which isn’t always a bad thing.
Results in the same or better pain management. According to medical cannabis patients in California, 80% reported that cannabis alone was more effective in treating their pain when compared to opioids or a mixture of cannabis and opioids. We are starting to peak your interest now, aren’t we?