Chronic pain is one of the most common complaints among individuals nowadays, and it is also one of the leading causes of long-term impairment in the United States. Cannabis may help medical marijuana or MMJ users ease chronic pain.
Cannabis comes in a variety of strains, each with its own set of effects on consumers. In this post, you’ll learn why cannabis is the favored treatment for chronic pain, especially among MMJ patients. Learn how cannabis can help reduce chronic pain, the best cannabis strains for chronic pain, and how taking medical cannabis in various forms can assist you.
Why Cannabis Is Effective In Chronic Pain Treatment
Thousands of marijuana strains are grown worldwide, with evidence that certain cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC, have unique effects on the body, such as pain relief. Chronic pain MMJ patients and those suffering from heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are now turning to medicinal marijuana for pain management.
Although medical marijuana can help with pain relief, it’s crucial to remember that different strains are recommended for different medical conditions. The majority of cannabis strains with high THC and CBD levels are efficient pain relievers.
Here are the findings of a study about the role of cannabinoids in pain management:
- Cannabinoids interact with other receptors, such as enzymes and ion channels, through cannabinoid receptors.
- Preclinical studies on animals have used genetic and pharmacological techniques to understand the mechanism of cannabinoid-induced analgesia better, resulting in therapeutic strategies for pain treatment in humans.
- The suppression of neurotransmitter release is one of cannabis’ analgesic effects. It also lowers brain inflammation by inhibiting neuropeptides from nerve terminals, modulating postsynaptic neuron excitability, activating descending pain pathways, and inhibiting neuropeptides from nerve endings.
- The use of medicinal marijuana to treat chronic pain has shown that cannabinoids or cannabis have analgesic properties, particularly in the case of neuropathic pain.
- When compared to over-the-counter pain drugs and opioids, the side effects of medicinal cannabis are mild to moderate, transitory, and well-tolerated. Patients who use marijuana must be closely monitored and followed upon.
Surveys and Studies Showing that Marijuana Is Effective for Pain Management
MMJ patients can benefit from cannabis, according to numerous surveys, studies, and anecdotal evidence. Of course, many non-cannabis users and healthcare professionals believe in marijuana’s pain-relieving abilities.
Pain is always subjective, and your pain tolerance varies from person to person. As a result, cannabis pain management is a trial-and-error procedure that many MMJ patients have previously gone through.
According to Medical News Today, here are some of the surveys and research that demonstrate cannabis can be used to treat specific types of chronic pain:
- It was noted in a 2015 scientific review that the use of cannabis for chronic pain problems, such as nerve pain or neuropathy, had excellent effects in multiple trials.
- Another study found that organically cultivated cannabis indica and sativa strains can aid in the treatment of a variety of medical diseases, including HIV.
- Researchers discovered that most participants preferred cannabis indica strains for sedation, sleep, and pain management. In contrast, most prefer cannabis sativa strains to boost energy and improve mood, according to an online survey published in the prestigious Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. MMJ patients most commonly utilize cannabis indica strains to alleviate non-migraine headaches, spasticity, neuropathy, and joint pain.
- According to a study published in 2016, cannabis use for cancer pain management resulted in a 64% decrease in opiate consumption. It also resulted in a higher quality of life and fewer drug side effects.
Cannabis as a Safer Alternative to Opioids in Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain is a problem that affects people all around the world, especially in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 20 percent of Americans suffer from chronic pain or 50 million people. That is why an increasing number of Americans are becoming addicted to opioids and other prescription drugs. According to a 2015 CDC estimate, it resulted in 52,404 deaths due to drug overdoses.
According to studies published in the Journal of Health Affairs, cannabis may be a safer alternative to opioids in treating chronic pain. The study’s goal was to learn more about how people use medicinal cannabis for pain relief and which medical conditions are eligible for medical marijuana treatment.
Here are the results of the research:
- There were 641,176 registered medicinal cannabis patients in 2016 and 813,917 the following year.
- According to the data, 85.5 percent of the population has a medical marijuana card, which they utilize to seek alternative treatment for evidence-based medical problems, including chronic pain.
- The findings are crucial because they add to people’s knowledge of how medical cannabis is utilized. Chronic pain is a qualifying condition for obtaining a medical cannabis license, and MMJ patients use medicinal cannabis for evidence-based reasons.
Cannabis Strains Recommended to Ease Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a type of discomfort that lasts for weeks, months, or even years. As a result, chronic pain can have a major impact on a person’s quality of life. Chronic pain can be debilitating, influencing one’s mood and daily activities, limiting one’s interest in active pursuits, and potentially leading to medication addiction.
Cannabis comes to the rescue, which is a good thing. It can be used to relieve chronic pain symptoms and kill the pain temporarily or permanently.Here are the marijuana strains that are effectively used for chronic pain management:
1.White Widow
It’s a well-known marijuana strain for treating acute and chronic pain. Its high THC levels alleviate painful feelings by lowering inflammatory molecules inside the body. At the same time, the 50 percent indica genetics of this strain aid relieve muscular aches, melt away tension, and invite the body into a deep state of peace. White Widow focuses on physical pain, triggering pain relief on a bodily and psychological level.
White Widow’s 50 percent sativa genetics instill emotions of motivation, exhilaration, and contentment. This upbeat outlook allows people to temporarily forget their painful feelings or sensations and enjoy the present moment. White Widow consumers will enjoy the peaceful fragrances of wood, flowers, and soil flavors in addition to the medicinal effects. The medium CBD levels further enhance the white Widow’s physical and psychological potentials.
Here are the quick good-to-know facts about White Widow:
- Yield: 450 to 500g/m² (indoors) and 550 to 600 g/per (outdoor)
- Flowering Period: 8 to 9 weeks
- Harvest Period: Late October
- Height: 60 to 100 cm (indoor) and 150 to 190 cm (outdoor)
- THC level: 19%
- CBD level: Medium
- Genetics: 50% Cannabis Sativa and 50% Indica
- Effect: Extremely stoned
2. Green Punch
It can be used to alleviate a variety of pains, including muscle soreness after a workout and chronic aches. Green Punch delivers a well-balanced high that alleviates nagging joint and muscle aches and pains. It provides momentary comfort at any time of day.
Green Punch’s genetic makeup is an ideal blend of 40 percent indica and 60 percent sativa, which helps to relieve chronic pain.
Indica is used to treat physical pain. Green Punch, on the other hand, contains sativa ingredients that help consumers stay productive and motivated. This cannabis strain was created by crossing the legendary Green Crack with the superb Purple Punch, resulting in a smooth smoke with fruity citrus, grape, and berry flavors. It possesses hardy genetics that can withstand minor watering, lighting, and nutrient errors. This strain grows well inside and prefers warm conditions.
Here are the quick good-to-know facts about Green Punch:
- Genetic: Green Crack and Purple Punch (60% Sativa and 40% Indica)
- Yield: 450 to 500 gr/m2 (indoor) and 550 to 600 g/per plant (outdoor)
- Height: 90 to 160 cm (indoor) and 180 to 220 cm (outdoor)
- Flowering period: 8 to 9 weeks
- THC level: 18%
- CBD: Low
- Harvest period: Late September
- Effects: Euphoric and Relaxed
3. OG Kush
OG Kush is a cannabis strain that originated in Northern California and became popular on the West Coast. This strain was created using a breeding program that used Pakistani Kush, Lemon Thai, and OG Kush as parent cannabis strains to create a high THC strain. It has a strong flavor that can help to relieve pain. This indica-dominant cannabis strain gives you a numbing sensation all over your body. A high THC level of 19% has an impact on the therapeutic effect.
CBD has a medium concentration, which helps to relieve pain by targeting inflammatory areas. Before sleep or if you want to unwind, OG Kush’s calming and soothing effects are highly advised. This strain will make you feel rejuvenated the following day. When it comes to growing, OG Kush yields a lot of buds in a short amount of time. Indoors, the plants can grow up to 160 cm tall.
Here are the quick good-to-know facts about OG Kush:
- Genetics: Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Pakistani Kush (0% Ruderalis, 25% Sativa, and 75% Indica)
- Yield: 425 to 475 gr/m2 (indoor) and 500 -to 550 g/per plant (outdoor)
- Height: 90 to 160 cm (indoor) and 180 to 220 (outdoor)
- Flowering period: 7 to 9 weeks
- THC level: 19%
- CBD: Medium
- Harvest period: October
- Effects: Full flavor and relaxing
4. Royal Jack
This marijuana strain is an autoflowering variant of the famed cannabis strain Jack Herer. It’s a sativa-dominant cannabis strain noted for its euphoric effects, long-lasting pain relief, and clear-headed high. Royal Jack’s breeders combined the therapeutic characteristics of Jack Herer with a cannabis ruderalis variation, allowing for much simpler and faster growing.
Royal Jack flowers have a modest THC content of 16%, which is enough to relieve pain problems without overwhelming the MMJ patient. 30 percent indica, 30 percent ruderalis, and 40 percent sativa make up the genetic makeup. It has invigorating and encouraging benefits that help people stay cheerful while lowering bodily discomfort and stoning the body. It has a strong flavor of herbs, pepper, and spices that make each hit enjoyable.
Royal Jack is a relatively simple indoor plant to grow, with flowers ready to harvest after about 10 weeks from seedling to harvest. Indoor Royal Jack plants only reach a height of 40 to 80 cm, which is quite little. This implies you can expand this railway with customized cabinets and boxes. Even though Royal Jack is a tiny plant, it can produce up to 400g/m2. Royal Jack is a fantastic guerrilla strain with minimal chances of being discovered if you’re seeking a quiet strain to grow.
Here are the quick good-to-know facts about Royal Jack:
- Genetics: Jack Herer x Ruderalis (30% Indica, 30% Ruderalis, and 40% Sativa)
- Yield: 350 to 400 g/m2 (indoor) and 70 to 120 g/per (outdoor)
- Height: 40 to 80 cm (indoor) and 60 to 80 cm (outdoor)
- Flowering period: 6 to 7 weeks
- THC level: 16%
- CBD: Low
- Harvest period: 9 to 10 weeks
- Effects: motivating and inspiring feelings
5. Royal Jack
This marijuana strain is an autoflowering version of Jack Herer, which is a legendary cannabis strain. It is a sativa-dominant cannabis variety known for its blissful sensations, reliable pain-relieving potential, and clear-headed high. The breeders of Royal Jack merged the therapeutic properties of Jack Herer and with a cannabis ruderalis variety, making the growth much easier and faster.
The flowers of Royal Jack has a moderate THC level of16%, which is just enough to ease the symptoms of pain without overwhelming the MMJ patient. The genetic profile includes 30% indica, 30% ruderalis, and 40% sativa. It induces inspiring and motivating effects that help people stay positive, while subtly reducing physical pain sensations and stoning the body. It has an intense taste of herbs, pepper, and spices that make every hit pleasant.
Royal Jack is relatively easy to grow indoors, with the flowers ready for harvesting after about 10 weeks from the seedling stage. Indoor Royal Jack plants maintain 40 to 80 cm which is tiny. It means that you can grow this train within modified cupboards and boxes. Even though Royal Jack is small, it is capable up to 400g/m² of yields. If you are looking for a discreet to grow strain, Royal Jack is an excellent guerrilla with minimal chances of getting discovered.
Here are the quick good-to-know facts about Royal Jack:
- Genetics: Jack Herer x Ruderalis (30% Indica, 30% Ruderalis, and 40% Sativa)
- Yield: 350 to 400 g/m2 (indoor) and 70 to 120 g/per (outdoor)
- Height: 40 to 80 cm (indoor) and 60 to 80 cm (outdoor)
- Flowering period: 6 to 7 weeks
- THC level: 16%
- CBD: Low
- Harvest period: 9 to 10 weeks
- Effects: motivating and inspiring feelings
FAQ Section for Cannabis and Pain Management
1.Is vaporizing cannabis effective in treating neuropathic pain symptoms
Yes. Cannabis can help with the symptoms of neuropathic pain. Pain that is experienced without a known cause is referred to as this form of pain. Neuropathic pain is damaged or diseased when the somatosensory system, which controls touch sensations and covers the skin, skeletal muscles, bones, joints, and internal organs. Pain perception, tactile touch, and temperature are all controlled by the somatosensory system.
Cannabinoids have analgesic and painkilling properties when they engage with CB1 and CB2 nervous system receptors. According to a study on the analgesic or painkilling impact of vaporized marijuana on neuropathic pain, only 26% experienced a substantial reduction in pain intensity, compared to 57 and 61 percent in the two groups administered marijuana. The subjects assessed their discomfort on a scale of 0 to 100, with no pain being the worst. A placebo, a low THC-dose treatment, and a medium THC-dose therapy were given to the individuals. A treatment is considered successful if it reduces pain perception by at least 30 points.
According to the findings, modest cannabinoids dosages found in marijuana, notably THC, may have a role in perceived pain reduction and improve the quality of life of persons suffering from neuropathic pain. The “moderate” therapy, which contained 3.53 percent THC, was successful in 61 percent of subjects, while the “low” treatment, which had 1.29 percent THC, was successful in 57 percent. Only 26% of individuals responded to the placebo therapy with detectable THC levels.
2. Can cannabis ingestion relieve pain
Yes. However, if you need relief right away, cannabis-infused edibles aren’t the ideal option. They can, however, provide long-term pain relief. It’s because the effects can take anywhere from 45 to 90 minutes to manifest. Marijuana-infused edibles take a long time to move through the digestive system, compared to smoking it.
Take modest quantities of THC, roughly 5 to 10 mg, or the normal dosing option. Wait around 45 to 90 minutes to see how you feel. Before consuming more, keep a close eye on your pain threshold. Edibles, such as mints, chocolates, biscuits, and gummies provide long-term pain relief. However, start slowly and gradually increase your intake.
Cannabis edibles are convenient since they allow you to consume medicinal cannabis discreetly once you’ve found the proper dose. Edibles are a quick and easy way to alleviate minor aches and pains throughout the day. Cannabis-infused sweets and beverages are becoming increasingly popular as a way for MMJ users to get pain treatment.
3. What is the best cannabis dose for chronic pain relief
Patients who use medical marijuana can consult their cannabis doctors to determine the appropriate dose for their chronic pain. It is critical to comprehend the dosage. Each patient, like you, has a different pain tolerance. As a result, your cannabis doctor may use a trial-and-error approach.
It’s a good idea to keep a dosage journal or use any other approach that works for you to track your dose. Write down the moment when the effects begin to appear and the impacts you experienced on the record. As a result, you and your doctor will be able to determine the ideal cannabis dosage for you.
If this isn’t your first time using cannabis, start with a modest dose and work your way up to a larger amount. Allow ample time for the effects to take effect, depending on the form of ingestion. Smoking cannabis and taking it sublingually, such as using a CBD tincture under the tongue, has a fast onset of effects. You can gradually raise the dose until you no longer feel pain. You can also take extra if your cannabis doctor prescribes it or if it’s judged necessary.
4. Are cannabis topicals psychoactive
No. The majority of cannabis-infused topicals are non-psychoactive. It’s nearly hard to acquire a “high” from using these kinds of topicals on your skin. Creams, balms, lotions, and natural oils infused with cannabis are absorbed via the skin and help relieve inflammation and pain. Cannabinoids, when used topically or on the skin, have been shown to help with the pain.
Cannabis topicals are highly suggested for joint pain reduction if you don’t want your mind affected and only want pain alleviation. Topical analgesics are also a preferred therapeutic option among parents for alleviating pain in children. Topicals can be used to treat chronic pain caused by arthritis, fibromyalgia, or neuropathy because they can be applied at any time of day.
5. Can I use cannabis to treat back pain
In terms of pain, MMJ patients who take a balanced blend of cannabinoids have better pain control than those who only take THC. According to the American Society of Anesthesiologists, marijuana has at least two essential roles in treating chronic pain, particularly back and neck pain. Cannabis can be used alone or in combination with other painkillers to treat pain.
Cannabis can also aid with nausea caused by long-term pain and the usage of opioids, which are narcotic pain relievers. Inhaling cannabis reduces side effects and improves absorption. As a result, it is MMJ patients’ favored technique of using cannabis for pain relief for a wide range of pain symptoms presently.
Conclusion
Cannabis, sometimes known as marijuana, is highly sought after for its pain-relieving properties. It can be used to treat arthritis, muscle aches, lower back pain, and other chronic pain symptoms caused by various medical conditions. That is why MMJ patients benefit from cannabis’ therapeutic properties. There is a lot of anecdotal data and studies that indicate how helpful cannabis is for pain management. While cannabis has fewer side effects than opiates and over-the-counter pain relievers, self-medicating is not recommended. Always get professional counsel from your cannabis doctor.
