A cannabis prescription for herniated disc pain could help reduce inflammation and manage pain around the affected area. Cannabis may ease nerve-related pain, relax muscles, and provide an alternative to opioid medications, giving patients an option for managing symptoms without dependency risks.
A herniated disc, sometimes called a bulging or slipped disc, happens when the inner part of the disc pushes out through a tear and into the spinal canal. Discs are circular with a strong outer layer (the annulus); they cushion and absorb stress by cushioning the bones that make up the spine (vertebrae). Disc herniation is most commonly seen in the early stages of deterioration.
What are the Signs and Symptoms?
Depending on the location of the disc and the extent of the herniation, the symptoms of a herniated disc might vary greatly. If a herniated disc does not cause nerve compression, the patient may suffer lower back discomfort or maybe no pain at all. A herniated disc, on the other hand, might cause further problems.
Sciatica, or radiculopathy, can arise as a result of a herniated disc in the lower spine. This often causes pain and discomfort in the buttocks, legs, and, on occasion, feet. A herniated disc in the cervical spine (neck) can induce nerve compression, resulting in cervical radiculopathy. This might result in dull or acute discomfort in the neck or between the shoulder blades that can travel down the arm and into the hands or fingers.
These consequences are characterised by the following symptoms:
- Sharp or dull pain in the afflicted and adjacent regions
- Tingling or numbness in the afflicted and adjacent regions
A herniated disc can result in nerve compression, which occurs when a nerve becomes trapped or squeezed as it passes through tissue. This might cause discomfort and, in extreme circumstances, irreparable harm.
Cause and Treatment
Herniated discs are frequently produced by a single severe strain or injury, although they can also be caused by degeneration. As we age, the disc material degenerates naturally, causing the ligaments that hold it in place to weaken. As this happens, a slight strain might cause a disc to burst.
Evidence reveals that certain people are more prone to disc issues and herniating more than one disc at the same time. According to research, people with impacted family members may be predisposed to herniated discs.
Treatment options for herniated discs differ based on the degree and course of the condition. Patients may be recommended to limit their activities for a few days to a few weeks at first to minimise nerve irritation and promote recovery.
Other treatment options may include:
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) are commonly used to treat mild to moderate discomfort. If you are deemed an acceptable case, medical marijuana treatment may be an option.
- Physical therapy: This includes pelvic manipulation, massage, cold and heat treatment, electrical muscle stimulation, and stretching exercises.
- Surgery: If alternative treatment options fail to relieve discomfort, surgery may be indicated.
Herniated Discs and Medical Cannabis
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. This might make marijuana 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.
Simple and Quick Private Assessment for Cannabis Treatment
MARUCANNA’s private cannabis assessment is designed to be quick and straightforward. Complete a free eligibility check and fill out a simple questionnaire. An instant decision follows, and eligible patients will have a virtual consultation with a doctor.