Can Cannabis Help With Somatic Pain?
Medical cannabis offers a promising avenue for managing somatic pain, providing relief from discomfort associated with musculoskeletal issues or injuries. Through its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, cannabis compounds like THC and CBD can help alleviate inflammation and modulate pain signals. Its analgesic properties make it a valuable option for individuals seeking alternative pain management strategies.
Book an appointment or complete the eligibility evaluation, and one of our physicians will examine your application and let you know if you are eligible for a cannabis prescription for somatic pain.
Somatic pain, originating from the skin, muscles, or tissues, can be challenging to manage. A cannabis prescription for somatic pain may provide relief by targeting inflammation and soothing pain in affected areas, helping patients feel more comfortable without relying on opioids or other strong painkillers.
Pain comes in different types, each with its own cause and symptoms. Somatic pain is one type, which happens when pain sensors in your skin, muscles, bones, joints, or connective tissues get activated. This includes things like skin injuries and headaches.
What are the Signs and Symptoms?
Somatic pain is frequently restricted to the afflicted location. It is often persistent and might worsen as a result of movement. Somatic pain can be restricted to a certain place or extend across the body. This form of discomfort is frequently characterised as:
- Cramping
- Aching
- Gnawing
- Sharp
It is frequently classified into two types: surface pain and deep somatic pain. Superficial pain is caused by the activation of pain receptors in the mucous, mucus and skin membranes; traumas such as cuts and burns are commonly associated with superficial somatic pain.
Deep somatic pain comes from pain sensors in deeper parts of the body, like joints, tendons, muscles, and bones. This type of pain generally feels much more like a deep ache compared to surface pain.
Examples of Somatic Pain
Somatic pain originates from the skin, muscles, bones, or connective tissues. It is typically well-localised and can be sharp or throbbing. Here are some examples of somatic pain:
- Fractures: Pain from broken bones is a common example of somatic pain, often felt as a sharp and intense sensation
- Sprains and Strains: Injuries to ligaments (sprains) or muscles and tendons (strains) cause somatic pain, typically presenting as a throbbing or aching pain
- Arthritis: Joint pain caused by inflammation of the joints is somatic pain, often described as a dull, aching sensation
- Cuts and Bruises: Injuries to the skin and underlying tissues, such as cuts or bruises, result in localised somatic pain
- Muscle Cramps: Sudden, involuntary muscle contractions cause sharp, localised pain, typical of somatic pain
- Post-surgical Pain: Pain after surgical procedures, particularly in the area of the incision, is somatic pain
- Burns: Pain from burns, whether minor or severe, is a form of somatic pain and is often sharp and localised
- Tension Headaches: These headaches are caused by muscle tension in the neck and scalp, resulting in somatic pain
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of a tendon, often due to overuse or injury, causes localised somatic pain
- Fibromyalgia: This condition is characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, which is a type of somatic pain, along with fatigue and tenderness in localised areas
Treatment and Cause
As somatic pain may impact many distinct places of the body, it can have a wide range of causes, including:
- Minor or significant joint and bone injuries
- Skin trauma
- Connective tissue damage
- Muscle strain
- Bone fracture
- Connective tissue disease (for example; osteoporosis)
- Bone or skin cancer
- Arthritis
Treatment methods frequently target the underlying cause of somatic pain, such as osteoarthritis or osteoporosis, as well as symptom management. This can involve using over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen and paracetamol) or stronger pain relievers, such as opioids.
Medical Cannabis and Somatic 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. This might make cannabis a valuable pain management treatment.
Our expert physicians have extensive experience evaluating individual situations and determining if medicinal marijuana might be a viable treatment choice.
CBD for Somatic Pain: A Natural Alternative for Relief
Somatic pain, stemming from the body’s musculoskeletal system, can manifest as discomfort in muscles, bones, and joints. Conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and chronic pain syndromes often fall under this category. Traditional treatments may include pharmaceuticals, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications, but many individuals are exploring CBD (cannabidiol) as a natural alternative for managing somatic pain.
What is CBD?
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the hemp plant. Unlike its more famous cousin, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not produce a “high.” Instead, it has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic effects, including pain relief, anti-inflammatory properties, and the ability to promote relaxation and well-being.
How CBD May Help with Somatic Pain:
- Pain Relief: CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating pain and inflammation. Many users report significant reductions in pain intensity after using CBD products, making it an appealing option for those suffering from somatic pain.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Inflammation often contributes to somatic pain conditions, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce swelling and discomfort, providing relief from chronic pain.
- Muscle Relaxation: CBD may help relax tense muscles, which can be beneficial for individuals dealing with muscle spasms or tension that often accompany somatic pain conditions.
- Improved Sleep: Chronic pain can disrupt sleep, leading to a vicious cycle of pain and fatigue. CBD has been shown to improve sleep quality, allowing individuals to rest and recover more effectively.
- Reduced Anxiety and Stress: Living with chronic somatic pain can lead to increased anxiety and stress. CBD is known for its anxiolytic properties, which can help calm the mind and improve overall emotional well-being.
Choosing the Right CBD Product:
When considering CBD for somatic pain relief, it’s important to choose the right product. Here are a few options:
- CBD Oils and Tinctures: These provide a quick onset of effects and allow for precise dosing. Users can easily adjust their intake based on their individual needs.
- CBD Topicals: Creams, balms, and salves can be applied directly to painful areas for targeted relief. This is especially beneficial for localized pain in joints or muscles.
- CBD Edibles and Gummies: These offer a convenient and discreet way to consume CBD, though they may take longer to produce effects compared to oils or topicals.
- CBD Capsules: These provide a consistent dosage and are easy to take but may have a delayed onset of effects.
Dosage Considerations
Finding the right dosage of CBD for somatic pain relief can vary widely among individuals. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose (5-10 mg) and gradually increase until the desired effects are achieved. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the most effective dosage tailored to your needs.
Private Consultation for Cannabis Prescription in Four Steps
MARUCANNA’s private consultation for cannabis prescriptions is simple and fast. Begin with a free eligibility check, fill out a brief questionnaire, and get an instant decision. A virtual consultation with a doctor completes the process.