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Cannabis Prescription for Musculoskeletal pain

Musculoskeletal pain affects the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often leading to persistent discomfort. A cannabis prescription for musculoskeletal pain may help reduce inflammation and ease pain in affected areas, providing patients with a non-addictive option to improve mobility and quality of life.

Musculoskeletal Pain: What is it?

Muscles, bones, and joints can all experience severe or persistent discomfort known as musculoskeletal pain. It is a widespread issue that affects over a third of the UK population, ranging from small accidents to chronic diseases like back pain or arthritis. Consistent pain that impairs movement and quality of life is a hallmark of musculoskeletal illnesses.

Chronic musculoskeletal pain, which affects the body for more than three months, not only becomes a medical issue but also significantly affects wellness and mental health. This varies from patient to patient, but in certain cases it can result in total loss of independence, and over half of those with chronic pain also experience depression.

What Causes Musculoskeletal Pain?

Consistent chronic pain of the musculoskeletal type has approximately 200 distinct causes, each of which has a different effect on a different part of the body. Joint, muscle, and bone are the three primary sources of pain that warrant the most attention. This includes a number of ailments where a person may have a single or several sources of pain. Trauma to a particular region, such as falls, fractures, or dislocations, can result in musculoskeletal discomfort. Overuse or postural strain are two other causes of discomfort, including muscle, bone, or joint discomfort.

Musculoskeletal Conditions

Bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues make up the musculoskeletal system. The body can move while being supported and stabilised by it. As a result, there are several things that might cause musculoskeletal discomfort.

Those affected by musculoskeletal problems include:

Joints

  • A mechanical backache
  • Rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, etc. are examples of inflammatory arthritis.
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Pseudogout or gout
  • Hypermobile joints

Bones

  • Spinal compression fractures
  • Paget’s disease
  • Acromegaly

Tendons and muscles

  • Muscle Tendinitis
  • Myositis

Symptoms of Musculoskeletal Discomfort

Depending on the underlying cause of the pain, the symptoms linked to chronic musculoskeletal pain will vary. The level of pain can range from mild to severe, and it can be acute or persistent musculoskeletal discomfort. Back, hip, and knee discomfort are the three most typical pain sites. Since a decreased range of motion is linked to many different forms of musculoskeletal discomfort, this can limit function and restrict activities.

Treatment for Musculoskeletal Discomfort

It is frequently necessary to treat persistent musculoskeletal pain holistically, this can include the use of medically approved marijuana buds. This might involve making changes to your home and workplace environments and receiving physical or psychological therapy. The underlying cause of pain must be addressed since it is a crucial part of medical therapy. Simple pain relievers are frequently employed as the first line of therapy for pain in muscles and connective tissues. The use of stronger opioids in combination with codeine, tramadol, and morphine is then possible for severe pain. To assist in regulating the immune system, specialised drugs are provided for illnesses like inflammatory arthritis. It’s crucial to try to continue exercising as tolerated in addition to taking medicine. However, when severe, some ailments, including osteoarthritis of the hip or knee, may benefit from surgery.

Diagnosis of Musculoskeletal Pain

A specialised physician makes the diagnosis of chronic musculoskeletal discomfort. To determine the type of pain, its degree, and its symptoms, a complete examination will be necessary. A bone scan using X-rays, an ultrasound, or an MRI of the afflicted regions may be beneficial for some people. Depending on the underlying reason for the pain, a doctor may advise further testing, such as blood tests to search for inflammation or joint aspiration.

Medical Cannabis and Skeletal Pain

There is little information available about how medical cannabis affects musculoskeletal pain. However, there has been an increase in the number of people using medicinal cannabis since it was made legal for that purpose in 2018. Medical marijuana may be a possibility for musculoskeletal problems if first-line medications have failed to significantly reduce symptoms.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Musculoskeletal pain

What other options than medical care may be beneficial to me?

There are several strategies that might help you manage your discomfort. Some examples are:

  • Relaxation through deep breathing
  • Positive mental imagery and thought diversion
  • Compresses of heat or cold (or a mix of the two)
  • Keeping a positive attitude while lowering stress
  • Mindfulness practises
  • Marijuana use (medically approved by a clinic)

Are there any conditions that make me more prone to musculoskeletal pain?

Some disorders can increase the likelihood of musculoskeletal discomfort, such as:

Arthritis is characterised by persistent joint inflammation. Joint pain and stiffness are common symptoms of arthritis.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. Fibromyalgia patients frequently complain of muscular, tendon, or ligament discomfort.

Nerve compression or pinched nerves are caused by several disorders known as “tunnel” syndromes. Carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome, and tarsal tunnel syndrome are a few instances of these diseases. These disorders are frequently caused by overuse injuries.

Does cannabis help with joint pain?

Yes, cannabis may help with joint pain by reducing inflammation and providing pain relief. Cannabinoids such as CBD and THC interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate pain and inflammation. Many patients with conditions like arthritis report relief from joint pain after using cannabis, though its effectiveness can vary.

What type of cannabis is good for joint pain?

Strains or products high in CBD are often recommended for joint pain because of CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce pain without causing a psychoactive “high.” A balanced strain with both CBD and a lower concentration of THC can also be effective for some. Topical cannabis products, such as creams or balms, are also used directly on joints for targeted pain relief.

What does musculoskeletal pain feel like?

Musculoskeletal pain often feels like a deep, aching discomfort that can vary in intensity. It may manifest as a sharp or stabbing sensation, especially during movement or when pressure is applied to the affected area. Individuals may experience stiffness, tenderness, or swelling in muscles, joints, or bones. This type of pain can affect mobility and lead to fatigue, impacting daily activities.

What triggers musculoskeletal pain?

Musculoskeletal pain can arise from various triggers, including overuse or repetitive movements, injuries, or trauma to muscles and joints. Poor posture, heavy lifting, and sedentary lifestyles can also contribute to this type of pain. Additionally, underlying conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other inflammatory disorders can exacerbate symptoms and lead to chronic discomfort.

What are the first three signs of a musculoskeletal disorder?

The first three signs of musculoskeletal disorder typically include:

  1. Pain: Individuals often notice persistent or intermittent pain in muscles, joints, or bones, which may worsen with movement or activity.
  2. Stiffness: Many people experience stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity, making it difficult to move or engage in regular activities.
  3. Swelling or Inflammation: Noticeable swelling or inflammation in the affected area can indicate a musculoskeletal disorder, often accompanying redness and warmth around the joints or muscles.

Does CBD Help with Musculoskeletal Pain?

Yes, CBD has shown promise in alleviating musculoskeletal pain. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in muscles and joints. Many individuals suffering from conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other musculoskeletal disorders report significant pain relief when using CBD. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can help modulate pain signals and provide a sense of relief.

What does THC do to your bones?

THC may influence bone health indirectly through the endocannabinoid system, which regulates bone remodelling. Some studies suggest THC could support bone healing by stimulating bone formation and reducing bone loss in conditions like osteoporosis, potentially aiding recovery from fractures. However, evidence is mixed, and high doses or chronic use might negatively affect bone density in some cases. For musculoskeletal pain relief, THC’s primary benefit is reducing associated inflammation and discomfort rather than directly impacting bones.

Does THC help musculoskeletal pain?

Yes, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can help alleviate musculoskeletal pain for some individuals. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, particularly CB1 receptors, THC reduces acute pain perception and inflammation associated with conditions like muscle strains, sprains, or joint issues. Its muscle-relaxant properties may also ease spasms and tension, improving comfort and mobility. Effects vary, and side effects like drowsiness or dizziness may occur. Consult a healthcare provider to ensure THC is suitable for your condition.

Which cannabis strains are best for musculoskeletal pain?

In the UK, cannabis strains used for musculoskeletal pain generally fall into the categories of indica, sativa, and hybrid strains, each offering different benefits. Indica strains like Granddaddy Purple and Northern Lights are popular for their relaxing and pain-relieving properties, making them ideal for night-time use to help with pain and muscle tension. Sativa strains like Sour Diesel and Jack Herer, known for their energising and uplifting qualities, are ideal for daytime use when pain relief is required without inducing sedation. Many UK users also turn to hybrid strains like Pineapple Express, which combine the benefits of both indica and sativa, providing pain relief while promoting alertness. People particularly seek out strains with higher CBD content, such as CBD-dominant hybrids, for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects without the psychoactive effects of THC, making them a popular choice for managing musculoskeletal pain in a more controlled manner. Always consult a healthcare professional before using cannabis for pain relief, as legal and medical advice may vary.