Medical Cannabis Prescription for Acute Pain

A cannabis prescription for acute pain may offer a valuable alternative or adjunct treatment for patients seeking relief. Acute pain, often caused by injury, surgery, or sudden illness, can be intense and short-lived. Cannabis’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce pain levels quickly, enabling patients to experience reduced discomfort and faster recovery without the side effects associated with traditional pain medications.

Acute pain is pain that is produced by a specific event, such as a fractured bone, burns and wounds, or childbirth or labor.

This form of pain is frequently described as severe, abrupt pain that lasts less than six months and disappears when the afflicted region has been adequately treated. It serves as a message to your body that it is under attack from sickness or harm.

What are the Symptoms?

Acute pain symptoms can vary greatly based on the origin of the pain and the part of the body affected. It can be distinguished by a variety of experiences, either alone or in combination.

These might include:

  • Sharp pain
  • Throbbing
  • Burning
  • Stabbing pain
  • Tingling
  • Weakness
  • Numbness

Causes and Treatment

As previously stated, acute pain can be caused by a broad range of factors, including wounds and burns, childbirth, surgery, and muscular strain. This sort of pain may and does afflict everyone at some point in their lives; however, depending on the origin of the pain, some cases may be more severe than others.

While acute pain is usually easy to manage and short-lived, some situations can be more complicated.

Again, depending on the origin of the pain, the therapy for acute pain differs from case to case. For mild injuries, patients will most likely be told to rest and treat the injury with ice, a compress, and/or elevation. In less severe situations, over-the-counter medicine may be helpful.

More aggressive therapies may be necessary in more severe and complex situations of acute discomfort.

Stronger pain medicines, such as opioids, medical grade marijuana, physical therapy, and, in severe situations, surgery, are also options.

Medical Cannabis and Acute Pain

Medical cannabis has long been seen as a viable alternative to powerful opioids in the treatment of pain. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) appears to play a key role in pain signalling, according to emerging research into the use of medicinal marijuana subtances. This might make cannabis a valuable pain management treatment.

Our expert physicians have extensive experience evaluating individual situations and determining if medicinal cannabis might be a viable treatment choice.

MARUCANNA Private Cannabis Prescription Consultation

MARUCANNA offers a fast and simple private consultation process for cannabis prescriptions.

Begin with a free eligibility check, answer a quick questionnaire, and receive an instant decision. Eligible patients will meet virtually with a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions About Acute Pain

Is it possible for acute pain to become chronic?

Absolutely! If you do not appropriately treat your acute pain, you may discover that your symptoms last longer than the customary three months. In this scenario, acute discomfort has become chronic. That is why, to ensure that you are appropriately managing your severe pain, you must get professional medical assistance.

How Do I Determine Whether My Pain Is Acute or Chronic?

Many people are perplexed by pain categories and whether their pain is acute or chronic.

Acute pain is a natural physiological response to damage; consider the discomfort you feel when you cut yourself or burn yourself while cooking. Acute pain appears rapidly, is strong, and disappears totally in a short amount of time. The majority of acute discomfort subsides after three months.

What is worse, chronic or acute pain?

Chronic pain is generally considered worse than acute pain because it persists over a longer period, often lasting for months or even years. Unlike acute pain, which usually signals an injury or illness and resolves as the underlying issue heals, chronic pain can result from various factors, including ongoing conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia. This persistent pain can significantly impact daily life, leading to physical and emotional distress.

How long is acute pain?

Acute pain typically lasts for a short duration, usually less than six months. It often arises suddenly, often in response to a specific injury or illness, and resolves once the underlying cause is treated or healed. In some cases, acute pain may last only a few minutes or hours, while in others, it can persist for several weeks. However, once the source of the pain is addressed, it generally diminishes or disappears entirely.

Does THC help with acute pain?

Yes, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, can help relieve acute pain for some individuals. THC interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, particularly CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, to modulate pain perception. Studies suggest it may be effective for certain types of acute pain, such as post-surgical pain or injury-related pain, by reducing pain intensity and improving pain tolerance. However, its effectiveness varies depending on the individual, the type and cause of pain, and the dosage. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before using THC, as it may not be suitable for everyone and can cause side effects like dizziness, anxiety, or impaired coordination.

How long does THC take to relieve pain?

The time it takes for THC to relieve acute pain depends on the method of administration:

Inhalation (smoking or vaping): Pain relief typically begins within 2–10 minutes, peaking around 15–30 minutes, and lasts 2–4 hours.

Oral (edibles, capsules): Effects may take 30–90 minutes to start due to digestion and metabolism, peaking at 2–3 hours and lasting 4–8 hours.

Sublingual (tinctures): Relief may start within 15–45 minutes, lasting 3–6 hours.

The exact onset and duration vary based on factors like dosage, individual metabolism, and tolerance. Start with a low dose and monitor effects, as higher doses may increase side effects without additional pain relief. Always follow medical guidance for safe use.

What are the best cannabis strains for acute pain?

Bedica and Bedrocan, known for their high THC content and potent pain-relieving effects, are often considered the best medical cannabis strains for acute pain. Epidyolex, a CBD-dominant product, may also help with pain without psychoactive effects. Strains rich in caryophyllene and myrcene terpenes are recommended for their potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Consult with a specialist to determine the most suitable option for your needs.

Does cannabis help with acute pain?

Cannabis may help with some types of acute pain, although its effectiveness varies depending on the individual and the cause of the pain. While chronic pain management often recommends cannabis prescriptions, ongoing research is exploring its potential benefits for acute pain relief.

Is cannabis or CBD better for pain?

Whether cannabis or CBD is better for pain depends on the specific type of pain and the individual’s response. A cannabis prescription includes both THC and CBD, which together may offer more relief for certain types of chronic pain, whereas CBD alone is commonly used for milder discomfort without the psychoactive effects.

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