...

Complex regional pain syndrome and medical cannabis

What is complex regional pain syndrome?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a long-term condition that causes severe, persistent pain, usually affecting an arm, leg, hand, or foot. It often develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack. People with CRPS may experience symptoms such as burning pain, swelling, changes in skin temperature or colour, muscle weakness, and decreased mobility. The condition can be extremely distressing, and symptoms vary in intensity from person to person.

Who does CRPS affect?

CRPS can affect anyone, although it is more common in adults between the ages of 40 and 60. Women are affected more frequently than men. The condition is relatively rare, but for those living with it, the impact on daily life can be significant. Activities such as walking, lifting objects, or even wearing clothing over the affected area can become difficult due to pain and sensitivity.

Common treatment options

Treatment for CRPS often combines physical therapy, pain management, and medication. Doctors may recommend nerve blocks, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or opioids to help manage pain. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy can improve mobility and prevent stiffness. In some cases, counselling or psychological support is recommended to help manage the emotional strain that comes with living in constant pain.

Can medical cannabis help with CRPS?

Medical cannabis is increasingly being explored as an option for managing chronic pain, including CRPS. Research suggests that cannabinoids may reduce nerve-related pain, improve sleep quality, and help patients cope better with the emotional effects of long-term illness. When used alongside other treatments, medical cannabis often yields positive results for CRPS patients, especially when conventional painkillers fail to provide relief.

If you are living with complex regional pain syndrome and want to explore medical cannabis as part of your treatment plan, speak with a qualified specialist. A personalised consultation can help you determine whether medical cannabis is suitable for your condition and how it can be safely integrated into your care.

CHECK ELIGIBILITY
READ MORE

Frequently Asked Questions About CRPS

Is excessive sweating a CRPS symptom?

Yes, many people with CRPS experience sweating problems. Sweating excessively or not at all is one example of this. When you are diagnosed with CRPS, it is quite normal for both extremes to come and go.

I am having memory problems. Is this a CRPS symptom?

Yes, many CRPS patients suffer from amnesia, cognitive impairment, and memory problems.

Can CRPS spread to other regions of your body?

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) can sometimes spread to other parts of the body. For instance, if you have CRPS in your arm, it might also affect your shoulder or hand. Similarly, if it’s in your leg, it could move to your buttocks or foot.

Is CRPS a chronic disease?

This question does not have a common answer. There are several variables that can influence whether CRPS goes into remission or if a person continues to experience symptoms for the remainder of their life.

Having CRPS identified by a specialist as soon as symptoms arise may increase the likelihood of remission.

Is CRPS considered a disability?

In the UK, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) can be considered a disability under the Equality Act 2010. Under this legislation, an individual is deemed disabled if they experience a significant and enduring physical or mental impairment that notably hinders their capacity to perform everyday tasks.

Since CRPS often involves chronic and debilitating pain, as well as associated physical and psychological symptoms, it can meet the criteria for disability under the Equality Act. Individuals with CRPS in the UK may be entitled to reasonable accommodations in the workplace, protection from discrimination, and access to disability-related benefits and services.

However, eligibility for disability benefits and accommodations may still require assessment and evaluation based on individual circumstances and the specific criteria of the programmes or services involved.

Can CBD Help Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

Yes, CBD may offer potential relief for individuals with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a chronic condition characterized by severe, persistent pain, usually in the limbs, often following an injury or trauma. While there is no cure for CRPS, CBD’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties could provide symptom relief.

How CBD May Help with CRPS:

  • Pain Relief: CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates pain, inflammation, and the immune response. By modulating these processes, CBD may reduce the intense pain experienced by those with CRPS. Many individuals with chronic pain conditions report that CBD helps to alleviate their discomfort.
  • Anti-inflammatory Effects: CRPS often involves inflammation, contributing to the condition’s severe pain. CBD has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce this inflammation, potentially easing symptoms.
  • Nerve Pain Management: CRPS involves both pain from the injury site and neuropathic pain (nerve pain). CBD has been found to be effective in managing neuropathic pain in various conditions, suggesting it may help mitigate the nerve-related pain associated with CRPS.
  • Mood and Sleep Improvements: People with CRPS often suffer from anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances due to their chronic pain. CBD has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) and sedative properties, which may improve mood and sleep quality, further enhancing the overall well-being of CRPS sufferers.

Considerations:

  • Individual Response: Responses to CBD vary widely. Some people with CRPS may find significant relief, while others may not experience as much benefit. It’s often recommended to start with a low dose and adjust as needed.
  • Consult a Doctor: CRPS is a complex condition, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating CBD into your treatment plan. They can help you find the right dosage and ensure there are no interactions with other medications.

What are the recommended medical cannabis strains for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?

In the UK, licensed specialists prescribe medical cannabis to patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), a chronic condition characterised by severe pain, inflammation, and sensory disturbances, to provide relief. The choice of medical cannabis strains for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome focuses on reducing pain, inflammation, and associated symptoms such as anxiety and sleep disturbances. Here are some strains commonly recommended for this condition:

1. High-CBD strains for inflammation and pain relief

  • Benefits: CBD (cannabidiol) is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties without causing strong psychoactive effects. High-CBD strains can offer relief from the intense and persistent pain associated with CRPS while minimizing side effects, such as cognitive impairment.
  • Example: Charlotte’s Web is a popular CBD-dominant strain that may alleviate pain, inflammation, and anxiety, making it a beneficial option for patients with CRPS.

2. Indica-Dominant Strains for Pain and Relaxation

  • Benefits: Indica strains are known for their calming and sedative properties, which aid in pain reduction, muscle relaxation, and improved sleep. For many with CRPS, getting adequate rest is a challenge due to pain, making indica strains helpful for nighttime use.
  • Example: Northern Lights is a well-known indica strain often recommended for managing chronic pain conditions like CRPS, thanks to its potent analgesic and calming effects.

3. Balanced Hybrid Strains for Comprehensive Relief

  • Benefits: Hybrid strains that blend both indica and sativa properties can provide balanced relief, reducing pain and inflammation while minimising sedation. This is useful for patients who need daytime pain relief without excessive drowsiness.
  • Example: Harlequin is a strain that offers a balanced CBD to THC ratio, providing significant pain relief with reduced psychoactive effects. Cannatonic is another hybrid strain that is often used to treat chronic pain and inflammation.

4. Sativa-Dominant Strains (Daytime Relief)

  • Benefits: For patients who experience fatigue alongside CRPS pain, sativa strains can help boost energy and provide relief without inducing a heavy sedative effect. However, exercise caution when using sativas, as they may exacerbate anxiety in certain individuals.
  • Example: Sour Diesel offers energising effects alongside pain relief, which may be helpful for CRPS patients needing daytime symptom management.

Can cannabis help with CRPS?

Cannabis may help alleviate some symptoms of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), especially when conventional treatments have not provided relief. In the UK, specialists typically require specialist approval and issue cannabis prescriptions for CRPS on a case-by-case basis.