How cannabis can be used for chronic pain

Chronic pain can be debilitating for sufferers and for many, being able to use something that is naturally derived rather than relying solely on highly addictive pharmaceutical medication is a welcomed relief. Here is how cannabis can help with chronic pain.

The definition of chronic pain

In the medical world, there are two types of pain, one is acute pain which is short-lived, the other is chronic pain, and this is ongoing pain that cannot be cured but may be relieved with treatment. Chronic pain can be caused by an array of health conditions and what works for one person may not for another.

Cannabis and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates medicines in Australia, both script and over the counter by ensuring that they are safe and do what they say they do. As medical cannabis has grown in popularity, unauthorised production of cannabis-based products has increased. They do not meet the safety, quality and effectiveness standards that are set out by the TGA. Rather than testing out unapproved products, it’s best to visit your GP to discuss whether you are a good candidate for medical cannabis products or not. If you are, they can advise you of what products may work best given your concerns. Some people don’t realise that cannabis can interact with some medications so, if you are interested in trying a new treatment such as this, speak to your doctor first.

Chronic pain can trigger mental health conditions

For a lot of people living in pain every day, it can be hard for them to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and this very often will have a negative impact on one’s mental health, in fact, almost half of all chronic pain sufferers experience a mental health condition. No one should have to live in constant pain, and if you do, you should continue to explore all the options available to you to give you some reprieve.

How does cannabis help chronic pain?

85% of all scripts written up for medicinal cannabis are for chronic pain. While studies are limited, research shows that CBD, one of the main cannabinoids found in a marijuana plant, has analgesic properties and it works by attaching to the pain receptors and desensitising them. This can help sufferers to relax and have a more restful night’s sleep.

Types of pain cannabis can help with

  1. Back pain
  2. Pain associated with cancer and chemotherapy treatments
  3. Visceral pain
  4. Arthritis and osteoporosis
  5. Injuries
  6. Disease processes
  7. And so much more

Side effects of taking cannabis for pain

The side effects you may experience vary from person to person and differ depending on the product you are using. Generally, most tolerate cannabis well with little to no side effects, and if there are side effects, they are usually minimal. If you do experience a side effect from taking a CBD product, it’s usually one or more of the following:

  1. Lightheadedness
  2. Vertigo
  3. Nausea
  4. Fatigue
  5. Changes in appetite
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Dry mouth

Benefits of using a CBD product for chronic pain

It’s not only the pain-relieving properties that make CBD products so popular. They can have a positive impact on a person’s overall well-being. As pain can be managed, this promotes a better quality of life for sufferers.

Types of cannabis used for chronic pain

There are many different cannabis products available in Australia, here are some of the most common ones used for chronic pain:

  1. Cannabis oil
  2. Cannabis unprocessed plant – smoked or in edibles
  3. Tinctures
  4. Creams

How do you use them?

Cannabis oil and tinctures usually come in a small bottle with a dropper. The recommended dose will then be administered sublingually (under the tongue). Creams are rubbed into the affected area of the skin, and cannabis can be smoked or added to foods.

How long does it take for cannabis products to work?

How long it will take for you to feel the effects of a cannabis product will depend on the type you are using. For smoking and cannabis edibles, you can expect to feel the effects almost instantly. Tinctures and oils usually take around 30 minutes to work, and creams will generally take around 5 to 20 minutes before you start to notice any pain relief.

More research is needed to support the use of cannabis for chronic pain

Here in Australia, the legalisation of cannabis for medicinal purposes is relatively new, however, there is strong evidence to suggest that cannabis can be beneficial to those suffering from medical conditions and more commonly chronic pain. After all these years, having a natural alternative to painkillers such as opioids is a breath of fresh air, and undoubtedly, you’ll see the use of cannabis for health conditions grow.

The relief that cannabis can provide chronic pain sufferers in undeniable and Australia, while behind compared to some countries, is on the right track to helping people who would otherwise rely on artificially made and often strong medications to get them through their day. Cannabis is becoming more normalised, and you’ll find it more readily available as time goes on. Here at Byron Bay Cannabis, we are all about helping people live their best life, naturally! We have a selection of cannabis products available, ranging from tinctures, creams, gummies, essential oils and much more. Our products are safe and do not contain THC.

 

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