Medical cannabis and joint pain

Joint pain, whether caused by arthritis or other conditions, can make daily life challenging. For those seeking alternative treatments, medical cannabis has gained attention as a promising option. In the UK, where it’s been legal since 2018, more people are exploring its potential to ease joint pain. This blog post covers everything you need to know: how medical cannabis works, its benefits, and how to legally obtain it through MARUCANNA.

What is medical cannabis?

Medical cannabis involves using the cannabis plant or its extracts to treat health conditions. It contains active compounds called cannabinoids, primarily:

• CBD (Cannabidiol): Non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t cause a “high,” and known for reducing inflammation.
• THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol): Psychoactive, with pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects.

These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain, inflammation, and other functions. In the UK, medical cannabis is tightly regulated and can only be prescribed by specialist doctors for specific conditions, such as chronic joint pain linked to arthritis.

How does medical cannabis help with joint pain?

Medical cannabis can ease joint pain in several ways:

• Reduces Inflammation: CBD and THC can lower inflammation, a key cause of joint pain in conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Relieves Pain: THC acts as a natural painkiller, while CBD may enhance its effects, offering relief from chronic discomfort.
• Improves Mobility: By reducing pain and swelling, cannabis may help patients move more comfortably.

For example, a study in the Journal of Pain showed that cannabis use led to a notable decrease in pain severity and improved daily functioning for those with chronic pain, including joint issues.

Forms of medical cannabis for joint pain

Medical cannabis comes in different forms, each suited to specific needs:

• Oils: Dropped under the tongue for quick absorption and precise dosing.
• Capsules: Taken orally for longer-lasting effects, ideal for consistent pain management.
• Topical Creams: Rubbed onto painful joints for targeted relief without affecting the whole body.

Your choice depends on your pain level and lifestyle. Topical creams work well for localised pain, while oils or capsules may be suitable for widespread discomfort.

Things to consider

While medical cannabis can help, it’s not without considerations:

• Side Effects: Possible effects include dizziness, dry mouth, tiredness, or appetite changes.
• Drug Interactions: It may affect other medications, so consult your doctor first.
• Dosage: Start low and adjust slowly under medical guidance, as everyone’s ideal dose differs.

Getting medical cannabis in the UK with MARUCANNA

In the UK, medical cannabis requires a prescription from a specialist. MARUCANNA simplifies the process with these four steps:

1. Send Us Your Prescription

• Ask your clinic or pharmacy to send MARUCANNA a physical copy of your prescription.
• If you are unable to, please post it yourself. We don’t accept photocopies or scans; the law requires the original.
• Your prescription is valid for 28 days from the issue date. If it expires, contact your clinic for a new one.

2. Purchase Your Cannabis Prescription

• Once MARUCANNA receives your prescription, they’ll email you a payment link.
• Pay online with a credit card via PayPal.

3. We’ll bring your medicine to you.

• A courier will schedule your delivery and provide a tracking number.
• Not home? Please consider rescheduling with the courier or using their app for updates.
• You must sign for the delivery to confirm receipt.

4. Schedule a Repeat Prescription Appointment on Your Calendar

• Note when your supply will run low; MARUCANNA suggests booking your next prescription 10 days before you run out.
• Check with your clinic if a follow-up visit is needed or if you can request a new prescription directly.

Are you eligible?

Are you unsure about your eligibility for medical cannabis? Visit our eligibility checker at https://marucanna.co.uk/check-eligibility/ to find out.

The legal context in the UK

Medical cannabis was legalised in the UK in 2018, but it’s not available over the counter. Only specialist doctors can prescribe it for conditions like chronic joint pain, and eligibility varies. Always consult a healthcare professional to confirm it’s an option for you.

Final thoughts

Medical cannabis offers hope for those struggling with joint pain, especially when other treatments fall short. Its ability to reduce inflammation and ease discomfort makes it worth considering. However, it’s vital to weigh the benefits against potential side effects and follow the legal process.

With MARUCANNA, obtaining medical cannabis is straightforward and secure. If joint pain is holding you back, talk to your doctor and explore whether this treatment could help you reclaim your comfort and mobility.