Cannabis & Chronic Pain

Chronic pain seriously affects a person’s quality of life. Many people turn to potent medications, like opiods, that can lead to substance abuse problems or they are unable to manage their pain, which can lead to serious depression.

According to 2018 statistics, over 50 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, which is higher than heart disease, diabetes and cancer combined. Chronic pain can be either nociceptive or neuropathic. Nociceptive pain is caused by inflammation and/or tissue damage, whereas neuropathic pain is caused by nervous system damage. 

With the recent rise of the cannabis market, CBD & THC are more accessible than ever. More and more countries are choosing to legalize marijuana usage and people are starting to see the medical benefits that cannabis provides. Chronic pain is just one of the many ailments that cannabis can help to treat.

Can Cannabis Really Help?

The effects of marijuana, as a treatment of chronic pain, is the most widely researched of all cannabis treatments. Due to its success with minimizing inflammation, cannabis is an obvious choice for pain relief. 60% of medical marijuana users are registered as using it for chronic pain.

Cannabis has proven to be an effective method of treating both nociceptive and neuropathic pain. CBD is especially useful, as it has no psychoactive side effects yet still has incredbible anti-inflammatory & pain relieving properties.

How it Works

The efficacy of medical marijuana is attributed to its interactions with the endocannabinoid system in the human body. Although there is still much to learn about the endocannabinoid system, it is believed to play a major role in how our bodies regulate and manage pain.

Unlike THC, CBD does not bind to cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, but it does bind to TRPV1 receptors and quickly anesthetizes them. TRPV1 receptors are known for moderating inflammation, pain, sensory perception and body temperature.

Cannabis vs. Opioids

Over 30,000 people died of opioid overdose in 2018. Addiction and death are serious issues facing those who use opioids to manage pain, as the drugs can create acute dependencies in their users. It’s no wonder that healthcare professionals are in search of a safer long term option. Many believe that THC and CBD could be the solution.

Although THC is not chemically addictive, it can cause dependency in around 10% of it’s users. But that dependency is far less dangerous than that of opioids, as it will not lead to death or severe health problems. 

Because CBD has no psychotropic side effects, it does not lead to addiction or dependency and is a viable option for those struggling with long term chronic pain.

Both THC & CBD have fewer side effects and pose less health risk to patients in the long term. Although, finding the right dosages can be tricky since there are many different strains and each affects the user differently, but there is no worry of overdose, should someone take more than necessary.

Chronic pain is not something to be taken lightly. Consistent pain can dramatically affect a person physically, mentally and emotionally. Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts 12 weeks or longer and should be addressed as soon as possible. Discuss pain management with your healthcare provider and ask questions about potential medications. Opioids are a highly addictive medication and should only be used as a long term option if you and your physician deem it absolutely necessary. No one should live in constant pain, but make sure you find a pain management method that works for you.