Exploring the Benefits of Medical Marijuana for Arthritis Sufferers

For those who suffer from arthritis, the daily pain can be debilitating and exhausting. Fortunately, medical marijuana has been increasingly studied for its potential to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with the condition. This article will explore the benefits of medical marijuana for arthritis sufferers and discuss the research that has been conducted so far. We’ll also look at how medical marijuana may be used in treating arthritis and the potential risks associated with its use. Finally, we’ll explore the various options available to those considering medical marijuana as a treatment for their arthritis.

Is medical marijuana an effective treatment for arthritis?

Yes, medical marijuana can be an effective treatment for arthritis. Research has shown that marijuana has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties, which can help manage the symptoms of arthritis. Additionally, there are many states that have passed laws allowing the use of medical marijuana for those with certain medical conditions, such as arthritis.

What types of medical marijuana are approved for treating arthritis?

Yes, medical marijuana is approved for treating arthritis. There are many different forms of medical marijuana available, including edibles, tinctures, oils, and topical creams. Each type of medical marijuana is designed to provide relief from arthritis symptoms such as pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Talk to your doctor to determine which type of medical marijuana is right for you.

Are there any side effects associated with using medical marijuana for arthritis?

Yes, there are some potential side effects associated with using medical marijuana for arthritis. These may include dry mouth, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. Additionally, it may also cause anxiety and irritability in some patients. It is important to consult your doctor to determine if medical marijuana is an appropriate treatment for arthritis.

Is CBD an effective treatment for arthritis?

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Marijuana has been used to treat arthritis-related symptoms for centuries. The two main components of cannabis are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Research suggests that CBD may play an important role in relieving pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. However, more research is needed to determine if CBD is an effective treatment for arthritis.

How does medical marijuana compare to traditional treatments for arthritis?

Medical marijuana has been shown to be an effective treatment for many of the symptoms associated with arthritis, including pain, inflammation, and stiffness. It has been found to be as effective as traditional treatments, like NSAIDs and corticosteroids, for reducing inflammation and improving joint function. Additionally, medical marijuana has fewer side effects than traditional treatments and does not carry the same risk of addiction. Thus, for many people, medical marijuana is a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments for arthritis.

Will smoking marijuana help with arthritis pain?

Yes, in some states medical marijuana is available to help with the relief of arthritis pain. Studies have shown that marijuana can reduce inflammation, pain, and stiffness in people with arthritis. However, it is important to note that marijuana is still illegal in many states, and its use remains controversial.

Medical marijuana is legal in more than half the states in the United States, and its commonly used to treat chronic pain. Have you ever discussed cannabis with your doctor? Despite the fact that 29 states plus the District of Columbia have decriminalized the use of marijuana for the treatment of certain medical problems, research published in September in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that nine out of ten doctors were unprepared to prescribe it to their patients. It is important to note that among RA experts, theres a consensus for early, aggressive, and conventional treatment for rheumatoid arthritis RA. People diagnosed with RA should never use complementary and alternative medicine CAM therapies in place of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs DMARDs , which have been proven effective in altering the course of the disease. No other treatment can stop the inflammation, prevent the joint damage, and reduce the risk of long-term complications that are associated with RA the way DMARDs can. But what about using complementary and alternative medicine therapies, such as marijuana, in addition to traditional treatment? To date, the medical establishment has largely shied away from treating RA pain with cannabis, citing a lack of evidence. But doctors who prescribe medicinal marijuana to their own patients disagree, saying there is tremendous potential in this form of treatment. There are at least 80 different cannabinoids chemical compounds that alter neurotransmitter release in the brain that have been identified. Advocates say the drug is an effective remedy for chronic joint pain, citing theories on how the herb might be helpful. In addition, marijuana may influence immune cells. Research is ongoing. There are also topical creams and balms that contain CBD that you can rub right into the joints. If you live in a state that has legalized medical marijuana and youre interested in trying it, Dr. Ivker says to ask your doctor to write you a recommendation, which will be authorized by the state. Roman agrees, and advises patients to be bold with their physicians when they discuss this treatment option. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Conditions A-Z. Health Tools. Rheumatoid Arthritis News. October 6, Everyday Health Archive. Medically Reviewed. No Substitute for Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication It is important to note that among RA experts, theres a consensus for early, aggressive, and conventional treatment for rheumatoid arthritis RA. Possible Mechanisms of Marijuana Advocates say the drug is an effective remedy for chronic joint pain, citing theories on how the herb might be helpful. Marijuana Dispensary Access, Your State, and Your Doctor If you live in a state that has legalized medical marijuana and youre interested in trying it, Dr.
The national conversation about using CBD and marijuana for medical purposes keeps getting more interesting. The Transportation Security Administration just released a new policy that allows flying with certain FDA-approved medical marijuana and products that contain hemp-derived CBD oil. But no matter what you read, watch, or listen to, one thing is abundantly clear. We need more information, both about how these compounds work medically and which patients and types of health problems can best benefit from them. CreakyJoints wanted to understand how our arthritis patient community perceives and uses medical marijuana and CBD, so we conducted a recent survey to find out more. More than half of people surveyed 57 percent said they tried marijuana or CBD for a medical reason. The average age of patients in our survey was 57 the vast majority were female. Most patients 77 percent reported being in fair or poor health based on a standardized survey instrument and only 29 percent said they were satisfied with their current treatment plan. These were longtime patients the average time since they were diagnosed was 14 years. Most patients surveyed had either rheumatoid arthritis 46 percent or osteoarthritis 22 percent. Others had psoriatic arthritis, fibromyalgia, and ankylosing spondylitis. Patient surveyed reporting using marijuana or CBD to treat many different symptoms and side effects of living with arthritis, including. About half of patients 45 percent said they started using marijuana or CBD to address arthritis symptoms they have despite taking medication. Just two-thirds of patients reported telling their health care provider about their marijuana or CBD use. Most of those who did 58 percent reported that their provider did not consider this when making treatment changes nor offer advice about safety, effectiveness, or dosing. About half 54 percent of people wanted to get more information on marijuana and CBD from their doctor.