What is Neuropathic Pain?

Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that occurs when there is damage to the nerves or nervous system. Issues in the nervous system’s processing of pain signals cause neuropathic pain, unlike the usual pain we experience from an injury or inflammation. This condition can result from a variety of factors, including physical injuries, infections, diabetes, or even certain medications. In some cases, the cause is unknown.

Symptoms of neuropathic pain

The symptoms of neuropathic pain can vary from person to person, but they commonly include:

• Burning sensations: A constant, intense burning pain is often reported.
• Tingling or “pins and needles”: A sensation similar to the feeling you get when your leg falls asleep.
• Sharp or shooting pain: Sudden, sharp pains that can feel like an electric shock.
• Numbness: A loss of feeling in the affected area.
• Increased sensitivity to touch: Things that would usually cause mild discomfort, like a light touch or clothing rubbing against the skin, can feel excruciating.

This type of pain can be localised to a specific area or spread throughout the body. Neuropathic pain often occurs in conditions like diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, shingles, and spinal cord injuries, but it can also appear without a clear cause.

How medical cannabis can help with neuropathic pain

While there is no cure for neuropathic pain, treatments are available to help manage symptoms. Among these treatments, medical cannabis has shown promise in alleviating pain and improving quality of life for those suffering from this condition.

Medical cannabis contains compounds known as cannabinoids, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce pain and inflammation. Research has found that cannabinoids can help modulate pain signals in the nervous system, making them effective for treating various types of neuropathic pain.

• THC is known for its pain-relieving properties, which work by binding to receptors in the brain and spinal cord to help reduce pain intensity.
• CBD, on the other hand, may reduce inflammation and offer neuroprotective benefits, making it a key player in managing nerve damage and reducing pain.

Studies suggest that a combination of THC and CBD may be particularly beneficial for managing neuropathic pain, providing both immediate and long-term relief without the significant side effects of traditional pain medications.

How to get a cannabis prescription from MARUCANNA

If you’re considering medical cannabis for neuropathic pain, the first step is to consult with a healthcare professional. In the UK, it’s possible to obtain a cannabis prescription for medicinal use if you meet the criteria set out by your doctor.

MARUCANNA is a licensed clinic that specialises in providing medical cannabis prescriptions to patients. They offer consultations with qualified specialists who can assess your condition and determine if medical cannabis is an appropriate treatment option for your neuropathic pain.

To get a cannabis prescription from MARUCANNA, follow these simple steps:

1. Book a Consultation: Schedule an appointment with one of MARUCANNA’s healthcare professionals. You have the option to conduct the consultation remotely or in person.
2. Consult with the Doctor: During your consultation, your doctor will discuss your medical history, current treatments, and the severity of your neuropathic pain. They will assess whether medical cannabis could help alleviate your symptoms.
3. Prescription Approval: If your doctor believes that medical cannabis is suitable for you, they will provide you with a prescription. A licensed pharmacy can then fill this prescription.
4. Follow-up Care: We will schedule regular follow-up appointments to assess your progress and modify your treatment plan as necessary.

At MARUCANNA, they aim to provide personalised care for each patient, ensuring that the treatment plan is tailored to meet your specific needs.

Conclusion

Neuropathic pain can be a debilitating condition, but with the right treatments, relief is possible. Medical cannabis offers a promising alternative for those who have not found success with conventional pain management methods. If you’re struggling with neuropathic pain and want to explore cannabis as a treatment option, reaching out to MARUCANNA could be a step toward improving your quality of life.