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Cannabis for Chronic pain

Picture of the top half of a person with long hair from behind, holding a red sore spot on their shoulder. Representing chronic pain.

Chronic pain affects nearly 52 million Americans. It refers to any ongoing pain that lasts for 3 months or longer. It can impact any part of your body with sensations like:

  • Aching
  • Burning
  • Shooting
  • Squeezing
  • Stiffness
  • Stinging

It’s often caused by another issue, like an injury, health condition, or surgical trauma.

Chronic pain can lead to reduced mobility and negatively impact your quality of life.

While treatment is available, medical cannabis has also become a popular option for managing chronic pain. In fact, it’s one of the most common reasons people seek out medical cannabis.

Research on cannabis for chronic pain

Cannabis studies show promise regarding chronic pain.

Cannabis compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and beta-caryophyllene, work with the body’s endocannabinoid system to balance bodily processes like pain and inflammation.

A 2017 review found that cannabis can be effective for treating chronic pain. The review included studies on specific types of pain, including neuropathic pain (nerve pain), musculoskeletal pain, cancer-related pain, and muscle spasms.

A 2018 study found that cannabis reduced pain intensity and improved sleep in people with chronic pain. However, it emphasized the need for more long-term studies.

CBD may be particularly effective for pain relief. A 2022 study found that people who used CBD oil experienced significantly less pain and lowered their intake of pain medications. Other studies support these findings.

Terpenes and flavonoids in cannabis can also help relieve pain. In fact, when taken together with other cannabis compounds, including cannabinoids, it may enhance pain-relieving effects. This is known as the entourage effect.

According to animal and lab studies, the compounds beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and quercetin may be especially effective for easing pain and inflammation.

Cannabis has shown varying degrees of effectiveness on different types of pain:

  • Cancer pain: Some research suggests cannabis may help relieve cancer-related pain and reduce the need for pain medication.
  • Headaches and migraine: THC and CBD have been shown to reduce the intensity of headache and migraine pain.
  • Joint and bone pain: One study found that people with arthritis who used cannabis reported reduced pain and stiffness.
  • Muscle pain and spasms: Cannabis may help with muscle tension and discomfort. CBD and THC have also been shown to reduce muscle spasms.
  • Neuropathic (nerve) pain: THC, CBD, and beta-caryophyllene may help alleviate nerve pain in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) and diabetes.
  • Sickle cell diseases: Research suggests that cannabis may help with pain and improve quality of life in people with sickle cell diseases.

Research shows that people who use medical cannabis may rely less on pain medications like opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and gabapentin. This could be helpful if you experience side effects from these medications, like headaches, nausea, or addiction.

Despite what research has found to support the use of cannabis for chronic pain, findings are still largely inconclusive. That’s because results can vary depending on pain type, dosage, and individual response. More studies and clinical trials are needed to fully understand how cannabis may help chronic pain.

Using cannabis for chronic pain

Many people have turned to cannabis to manage chronic pain, especially when other treatments haven’t been effective. While cannabis can help ease pain, inflammation, and pain-related stress, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. The right strain, dosage, and method of use can vary widely from person to person.

Understanding the benefits and risks can help you make the right decision for you.

Benefits

Some potential benefits of cannabis for chronic pain include:

  • Relieve pain: THC and CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system to reduce pain signals.
  • Reduce inflammation: Cannabinoids may help control inflammation, a common underlying source of chronic pain.
  • Improve sleep: Cannabis can help manage insomnia or trouble sleeping that’s related to pain.
  • Provide an alternative to other pain medications: Cannabis may reduce the need for opioids and other pain medications, lowering the risk of addiction and other side effects.

Risks and side effects

While cannabis can offer relief, it also comes with potential side effects, including:

  • Drowsiness: High doses of THC can lead to sedation.
  • Dizziness: You may feel lightheaded, especially if you’re new to using cannabis.
  • Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect of cannabis use.
  • Tolerance or dependency: Long-term use may require you to take higher doses to achieve the same beneficial effects.
  • Interactions with medications: Cannabis may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners or sedatives.

Is it legal?

Cannabis laws vary from state to state. Many states allow people to use medical cannabis for chronic pain if they qualify for a state-issued medical cannabis card. Depending on state laws, state-approved caregivers may buy medical cannabis for minors with chronic pain.

Another option: Dronabinol is an FDA-approved synthetic cannabinoid-based medication. It’s available with a prescription for people with chronic pain caused by cancer, AIDS/HIV, or MS.

Best strains and products for chronic pain

If your goal is to manage chronic pain, it’s important to choose the right cannabis product for your needs. Factors like CBD:THC ratios, terpenes, and product types all play a role.

Cannabis products that are taken orally, like tinctures, edibles, and capsules, are commonly recommended for chronic pain due to their long-lasting effects and precise dosing. Tinctures can take effect in 15 to 30 minutes, while edibles and capsules may take 60 to 90 minutes.

Topicals like CBD cream may also be effective for pain. These products are applied to the affected area and absorbed through the skin to provide localized relief.

Ultimately, the best cannabis product for pain relief depends on your preferences and how your body responds. Some people use multiple product types at different times of day. Finding the right approach for you can take some trial and error.

Strains (aka cultivars)

Some strains commonly recommended for chronic pain include:

  • ACDC: This high-CBD strain provides pain relief without causing intoxication.
  • Northern Lights: This calming strain is high in myrcene, a terpene that can relieve pain.
  • OG Kush: This higher-THC strain may ease muscle tension.
  • Blackberry Rhino: This strain is high in THC, myrcene, and beta-caryophyllene, which may help manage pain.

CBD:THC ratios

High-CBD, high-THC, and balanced CBD-to-THC ratios may all help with different types of pain. They can also be used at different times of day for around-the-clock relief.

  • CBD:THC 20:1: This is ideal for reducing inflammation and mild pain without a “high.” May be best for daytime use.
  • CBD:THC 1:1: This provides moderate pain relief.
  • CBD:THC 1:2 or higher: This is suitable for severe pain, but can cause intoxication. High levels of THC may also help with pain-related appetite loss and insomnia.

Terpenes

Terpenes in cannabis can be combined with cannabinoids to enhance cannabis’s ability to relieve pain, stress, and anxiety. Many terpenes are particularly helpful for managing pain, including:

  • Beta-caryophyllene: May help reduce inflammation
  • Humulene: Has sedative effects which could help with pain and pain-related sleep issues
  • Myrcene: Known for its sedative and pain-relieving effects

Flavonoids

Certain flavonoids in cannabis may have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, including:

More about chronic pain

Chronic pain is defined as pain that lasts longer than 3 months, which usually persists despite treatment. And it can lead to other health issues. In fact, people with chronic pain are at risk of developing other conditions, including:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Insomnia

Chronic pain cannot always be cured, but the right treatment and management plan can help you ease symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Other treatments for chronic pain

Managing chronic pain usually involves a combination of different strategies. Cannabis can complement traditional and alternative therapies for pain management.

Traditional therapies

There are many therapies available for chronic pain, including:

  • Pain medications: Includes options such as opioids, NSAIDs, and antidepressants like amitriptyline
  • Physical therapy: Involves learning exercises to improve strength and flexibility, as well as strategies to move your body to reduce pain and restore function
  • Surgery: Is carried out in cases of severe damage to bones or other body parts

Natural and alternative therapies

Complementary treatments may help improve symptoms and quality of life in people with chronic pain, including:

  • Acupuncture: May relieve pain by stimulating specific points in the nervous system
  • Yoga and meditation: Can reduce stress and improve bodily function to address pain
  • Dietary supplements: Omega-3 and turmeric may have anti-inflammatory benefits which can help reduce pain

Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for chronic pain

Cannabis can be a helpful addition to your chronic pain treatment plan. But it’s important to consult with a doctor to get their green light and find the right product and dosage to address your needs.

In many states, chronic pain is a qualifying condition for a medical cannabis card. Leafwell is here to help you explore your options and apply for a medical cannabis card to start your journey toward pain relief.

Frequently asked questions

Get the answer to common questions about cannabis for chronic pain.

What strains of marijuana are best for chronic pain?

Popular marijuana strains for chronic pain include Northern Lights, ACDC, and OG Kush. However, everyone reacts differently to the compounds in cannabis. It might take some trial and error to find the strain that works best for you.

Is cannabis better than opioids for chronic pain?

Cannabis has fewer risks than opioids, including a lower likelihood of addiction and overdose. Some people with chronic pain have used cannabis to reduce reliance on opioids or replace them altogether.

However, individual responses vary. Talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for chronic pain relief.

Which form of medical marijuana has the longest lasting pain relief?

Edibles produce the longest-lasting effects for easing chronic pain. They can deliver results for up to 8 hours.

Can I get a medical marijuana card for chronic pain?

In many states, chronic pain is a qualifying condition for a medical marijuana card. Check your state’s laws and talk to a doctor to find out if you qualify.

Can medical marijuana help with scoliosis and back pain?

Maybe. Some research shows that medical cannabis might reduce back pain and scoliosis-related pain. However, the evidence so far is limited. More research is needed to understand how cannabis may help scoliosis, specifically.

Resources

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Research Overview

Animal Study

60

Animal Study -

2

Clinical Meta-analysis

45

Clinical Meta-analysis -

1

Clinical Trial

52

Double Blind Clinical Trial

42

Laboratory Study

13

Meta-analysis

300

Meta-analysis -

1

Total studies

Chronic pain

516

Positive

405 studies

78%

Inconclusive

76 studies

15%

Negative

35 studies

7%

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Relevant studies

The information in our comprehensive A to Z encyclopedia comes from real scientific studies.

Uncover the detailed results of these studies and find out how effective medical marijuana is for dozens of conditions.

Table of content

  1. Research on cannabis for chronic pain
  2. Using cannabis for chronic pain
  3. Best strains and products for chronic pain
  4. More about chronic pain
  5. Other treatments for chronic pain
  6. Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for chronic pain
  7. Frequently asked questions
  8. Resources
  9. Research Overview
  10. Relevant studies