Chronic pain is a burden that can be life-changing to those who suffer from it. Not only does it bring physical discomfort, but it can also be the source of anxiety, loss of appetite, lack of energy, and even depression. Technology has advanced to the point where chronic pain does not have to diminish the quality of life of those who are affected by it. Sometimes, however, time and new technology can reveal that the best remedies come from old sources. This is the case with medical marijuana. Studies have proven that marijuana is a safe and effective way to negate many of the harmful effects of living with chronic pain.
Chronic pain can have multiple sources. The two main sources are inflammation that can occur in joints, tendons, and muscles, along with irritation that affects the nerves. Both types of pain can be equally excruciating and oftentimes both require different treatments to address the problem. One positive characteristic of medical marijuana is that it can address both types of pain, whether it is from inflammation or irritation in the nerves or tissues of the body.
Muscle, Joint, Tendon Pain
Medical marijuana can reduce muscle, joint, and tendon pain by acting as a relaxant to the affected area, allowing increased blood flow. The increased blood flow will in turn provide more oxygen to the area, which is needed in the healing process. When used at the advisement of medical professionals, both addiction and long-term negative side effects can be avoided. Most states have a medical group of doctors who specialize in this, and they can identify the best approach. While it may not be a cure for the underlying condition, it can allow a person to enjoy a higher quality of life, comfort, and activity while living with the injury. It can also provide increased movement and relief while conducting physical therapy to treat an injury causing chronic pain.
Nerve Pain
Pain is felt through nerve receptors that communicate with the brain. Nerve pain can arise from direct trauma to the nerve or from trauma to another area that irritates the nerve. Calming these nerve receptors is an essential part of controlling chronic pain.
According to a Harvard study, medical marijuana controls nerve pain by binding to “specific receptors on the brain and nerve cells, which slows pain impulses and eases discomfort.” The same study notes the anti-inflammatory effects that were mentioned before.
The Symptoms
As previously stated, chronic pain can cause discomfort, lack of appetite, loss of energy, and depression. Not only does medical marijuana have the potential to treat the source of the pain, but it can also equally treat the symptoms that arise from the source of the pain. Long-term studies in cancer patients have shown that medical marijuana use increased both the appetite and activity level in patients while reducing overall discomfort. This, in turn, reduced the depression that came with the loss of quality of life.
Before using medical marijuana, be sure to talk about your options with your healthcare provider so you can choose which ones will be more successful in managing your pain levels.