Chronic pain is a pressing health issue around the world. According to data from the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), at least 10% of the global population now struggles with chronic pain. As more nations have aging populations, this percentage is likely to rise as patients develop age-related conditions such as arthritis.
As more patients search for ways to manage their pain, the interest in medical marijuana is skyrocketing. In fact, recent surveys suggest “chronic pain” is a primary reason Americans are applying for MMJ cards. But does weed truly have analgesic properties? How do we know cannabis is any different than a placebo?
Can Cannabis Help With Chronic Pain? Following The Latest Data
The science behind using cannabis for pain relief is still early, but a few trials suggest cannabinoids impact pain perception. For example, a study out of The Cancer Research Center examined the use of medical marijuana on a group of oncology patients. According to study authors, patients who began using a blend of THC and CBD early in their treatment took fewer opioids than those who didn’t use cannabis. Doctors also noted that cannabis didn’t interfere with each patient’s recovery or treatment regimen.
A study out of Syracuse University also suggests CBD has unique pain-relieving properties that distinguish it from placebos. In this test, scientists gave patients CBD oil or a placebo pill before applying pain from a heat patch. To further control this data, researchers told some patients who took CBD they had a placebo and vice versa. Interestingly, those who took the CBD and didn’t know it showed a statistically significant reduction in pain sensitivity. However, Syracuse researchers also note that those who thought they were taking CBD had lower pain scores.
The findings at Syracuse confirm similar trials that suggested CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. For instance, professors at Cornell University fed CBD or placebo pills to a group of dogs with arthritis. After a few weeks, the dogs that took the CBD appeared to have less inflammation in their joints. Since dogs can’t tell placebos from CBD like humans, this data strongly suggests CBD has natural pain-relieving properties.
How Should Pain Patients Use Medical Cannabis?
Although more US states have cannabis-friendly policies for recreational users, pain patients should work with a registered MMJ doctor before using this substance. Although cannabis shows excellent potential as a pain reliever, it’s not the right fit for everyone. Also, there’s significant variation in how different cannabis strains and product types affect different people. For instance, some patients may experience relief with moderate THC doses, while others may feel paranoia even with mild concentrations of THC.
Only a registered MMJ therapist will know what cannabis strains and concentrations are ideal for a patient’s condition. Also, MMJ doctors can help patients incorporate cannabis into their lifestyle without interfering with other medications. Even non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD can alter drug absorption, so it’s imperative for anyone taking prescriptions to work with a certified doctor skilled in cannabis medicine.
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