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Cannabis prescription for Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain results from nerve damage and can be difficult to treat. A cannabis prescription for neuropathic pain may help relieve symptoms by targeting nerve pain at the source. Cannabis’s anti-inflammatory and calming properties could improve comfort and reduce the intensity of pain for patients with nerve-related conditions.

Neuropathic pain is characterised by injury to or malfunction of one or more nerves, which results in the transmission of pain signals to the brain and the perception of pain. In the UK, 7 out of 100 people experience persistent neuropathic pain.

Neuropathic Pain: What is it?

Damage to the nervous system or improper nervous system operation are the two causes of neuropathic pain. The brain’s pain centres receive pain signals, which cause the associated bodily area to experience pain, tingling, or numbness.

Causes of Neuropathic Pain

The main factor causing neuropathic pain is diabetes. However, there are other reasons for neuropathic pain, such as:

  • Diseases of the central nervous system (such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke)
  • Alcoholism
  • Diabetes,
  • Problems with the face nerves
  • HIV/AIDS infection

Trauma or surgical treatments like:

  • Amputation surgery
  • Spinal nerve inflammation or compression
  • Trauma from a vehicle accident or sports injury
  • Surgical procedure damage
  • Tumour-induced nerve compression

Treatment for several additional ailments or disorders, including:

  • Radiation
  • Chemotherapy

Additionally, the following conditions might cause neuropathic pain:

Neuralgia
A nerve can malfunction and generate pain, although no documented damage or physical injury has taken place.

Radiculopathy 
Pain, weakness, numbness, and tingling are all indications of a pinched nerve in the spinal column. The most common cause of radiculopathy is sciatica, a painful condition affecting the sciatic nerve that runs down the back of the leg.

Neuropathic pain signs and symptoms

The pain might seem electric shock-like, shooting, scorching, or stabbing. Other experiences that the individual may experience include tingling, numbness, and pins and needles.

There is also another type of neuropathy known as “idiopathic neuropathy “. This term is used to describe neuropathic pain that develops suddenly and for no apparent reason.

Allodynia 
Allodynia is a condition in which pain is felt in reaction to stimuli that are normally not unpleasant, such as chilly air or a feather delicately brushing against the skin.

Hyperalgesia 
Hyperalgesia is an oversensitivity to painful stimuli in which the quantity of pain felt is excessive in comparison to what would be expected.

Neuropathic Pain statistics

  • According to NHS estimates, 10% of individuals aged 55 and older suffer from neuropathic pain or peripheral neuropathy.
  • A placebo-controlled study found that cannabis-based treatment led to a 34% decrease in neuropathic pain.
  • Pain relief is the primary condition for which doctors prescribe cannabis-based therapies.
  • Surveys reveal that 68% of adults in the UK are willing to explore medical cannabis as a treatment option.

Neuropathic Pain diagnosis

A comprehensive evaluation will be performed by a doctor to establish whether the symptoms are those of neuropathic pain. They will do a physical examination and ask questions about your medical history, including any underlying illnesses, accidents, or operations.

A therapy and care plan will be devised once the underlying cause of the neuropathic pain has been recognised. This may demand the aid of one or more professionals as well as diagnostic imaging, depending on the reason.

Treating Neuropathic Pain

The suggested course of treatment will depend on what is causing the neuropathic pain.

In some circumstances (such as for individuals with diabetic neuropathy), lifestyle modifications can help lessen the risk that symptoms will worsen, and surgical techniques can assist when a herniated spinal disc is pushing on a nerve.

Treatment plans can have several facets and combine medicine with physical and psychological therapy. Depending on how severe their symptoms are, some people may be able to manage without extra drugs.

Although there isn’t a particular drug for neuropathic pain, here are some potential medicinal remedies:

  • Medications for treating depression and seizures
  • Strong painkillers
  • Medically approved marijuana products
  • Capsaicin patches, lotions, or ointments are applied topically to the afflicted region.

Medical cannabis and Neuropathic Pain

Patients suffering from chronic pain, such as arthritis, back pain, migraines, and others, may find medical cannabis to be a very beneficial option. At Maru Canna, we can provide you with medical cannabis to help with neuropathic pain.

Four-step private consultation for medical cannabis treatment

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Frequently asked questions about Neuropathic Pain

How severe may neuropathic pain become?

Neuropathic pain is frequently characterised as shooting or scorching. It can go away on its own, although it is frequently persistent. It can be relentless and terrible at times, yet it can also come and go. It is frequently caused by a nerve injury or a faulty neurological system.

What aggravates neuropathic pain?

Sugar-rich foods: Because sugar can increase nerve pain and discomfort, it is advisable to avoid sugar-rich meals. Sugary snacks, sweets, and processed meals are examples of this. Foods that are fried: Fried foods are harmful, and they can aggravate neuropathy symptoms.

Is neuropathic pain ever relieved?

Unfortunately, persistent nerve pain seldom disappears entirely. However, a comprehensive approach to treatment, such as physical therapy, regular exercise, medication, and pain management, can give considerable relief.

Is neuropathic pain hard to treat?

Neuropathic pain can indeed be challenging to treat due to its complex mechanisms and varied underlying causes. Traditional pain medications such as NSAIDs and opioids may not always provide adequate relief, as neuropathic pain often originates from damage or dysfunction in the nervous system.

However, medical cannabis has shown promise as a potential treatment option for such pain, with cannabinoids like THC and CBD demonstrating analgesic properties. Cannabis-based medications can modulate pain perception and reduce inflammation, offering relief for some individuals with neuropathic pain.

Nevertheless, the effectiveness of medical cannabis can vary among patients, and more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and optimize its use in managing neuropathic pain. As such, a personalised approach that incorporates various treatment modalities, including medical cannabis when appropriate, is often necessary to address the complexities of neuropathic pain effectively.

Does CBD Help with Neurological Damage?

Absolutely, CBD shows great promise in addressing neurological damage. Research indicates that it possesses neuroprotective properties, potentially shielding nerve cells from damage and degeneration. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD can influence inflammation and pain perception, making it a viable therapeutic option for various neurological conditions. Early studies suggest that it may alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and epilepsy. However, further clinical research is essential to fully understanding its effectiveness and mechanisms in treating neurological damage.

Are CBD Gummies Good for Neuropathy Pain?

Yes, CBD gummies can be quite effective for managing neuropathy pain. They provide a convenient and enjoyable way to incorporate CBD into your routine while offering the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits that many users seek. Many individuals have reported relief from symptoms such as tingling, burning, and sharp pain associated with neuropathy after adding CBD to their regimen.

It’s important to keep in mind that gummies typically take longer to take effect, usually around 30 minutes to 2 hours, since they must be digested first. This makes them a great option for those looking for sustained relief or a convenient daily dose. However, if you need immediate relief, faster-acting forms like CBD oils or tinctures may be more effective. Regardless of the delivery method, maintaining a consistent routine is key to successfully managing neuropathic pain with CBD.

Is a trapped nerve a type of neuropathic pain?

Yes, a trapped nerve is a type of neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain arises from damage or dysfunction in the nervous system, which includes nerves, the spinal cord, and the brain. When a nerve becomes compressed or “trapped,” it can lead to irritation and inflammation, causing symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. This pain differs from nociceptive pain, which is caused by tissue damage (like a cut or bruise). Managing trapped nerve pain often involves targeting the nerve compression, reducing inflammation, and addressing any underlying causes.

Does cannabis help neuropathic pain?

Yes, cannabis may help alleviate neuropathic pain by targeting pain receptors and reducing inflammation. In the UK, a cannabis prescription may be considered for individuals experiencing severe neuropathic pain when other treatments are ineffective.

What cannabis is best for neuropathy?

For neuropathy, strains of cannabis that are high in CBD and contain a balanced amount of THC are often recommended, as they may help reduce pain and improve comfort. A healthcare provider should tailor a cannabis prescription to the individual, selecting the strain and dosage that best suit the patient’s symptoms.

Which Cannabinoids Are Best for Neuropathic Pain?

When considering which cannabinoids are best for neuropathic pain, both THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are commonly used for their pain-relieving properties. THC is particularly effective in providing immediate relief from neuropathic pain, as it binds with cannabinoid receptors in the brain and nervous system to reduce pain and inflammation. However, its psychoactive effects may not be suitable for everyone, especially for daytime use. For those who want to avoid these effects, CBD is a wonderful alternative. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties that help modulate pain signals without causing a “high,” making it ideal for longer-term pain management.

For optimal relief, we often recommend a combination of both THC and CBD. This combination harnesses the entourage effect, where the cannabinoids work together to enhance their therapeutic benefits. The right balance can provide effective pain relief while minimising unwanted side effects. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate cannabinoid profile for your specific condition.