Medical Cannabis as a Potential Solution for Chronic Pain

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What is medical cannabis and how might it help treat chronic pain?

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In recent years medical cannabis has emerged as a potential solution for chronic pain management. But what is it and how does it work?

Let’s take a look at the ‘what’, ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind medical cannabis and its application to chronic pain.

What is Chronic Pain?

According to the NHS, chronic pain is pain that persists for 12 weeks or more despite medication or treatment. Following an operation or injury most people return to normal fairly quickly. However, sometimes pain can continue for longer, or come on for no apparent reason. People with other conditions, such as arthritis, may also experience chronic pain as a symptom.

Unfortunately, chronic pain appears to be a growing issue in the UK. A study by the British Pain Society discovered that 43% of the population are affected by some form of chronic pain, meaning that around 28 million people in the UK suffer with persistent pain.

Current treatments for chronic pain, such as opioid painkillers, largely focus on the management of symptoms. However, some patients find that this doesn’t effectively address the root cause of the problem and results in unwanted side effects. Opioid painkillers can also be addictive and so cannot be taken for more than a few weeks at a time - making them a short term fix for a long term problem.

However, emerging research into alternative treatments for chronic pain suggest that medical cannabis may be effective.

What is Medical Cannabis?

Medical cannabis is a broad term that refers to the unlicensed cannabis-based medicines accessible via prescription from a private clinic. These medicines have been legal in the UK since 2018. People often seek medical cannabis treatment to assist with symptoms associated with a range of conditions.
Medical cannabis contains a range of chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. Two of the most well known cannabinoids are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is responsible for the psychoactive effects commonly associated with cannabis, such as the ‘high’ sensation’ However, CBD is non-intoxicating and so doesn’t produce a ‘high, but is still known for its potential therapeutic properties. Cannabis also contains other cannabinoids, such as cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN), which also add to the overall effect of the medication. When cannabinoids enter the body they stimulate the receptors within the endocannabinoids system (ECS). This system plays an important role in maintaining balances and regulating bodily functions. The CB1 and CB2 receptors are the body’s primarily cannabinoid receptors. THC has a stronger affinity for CB1 receptors in the central nervous system, producing psychoactive effects. Meanwhile CBD has a more subtle impact on both of these receptors. Additionally, CBD modulates other receptors and non-cannabinoid receptors in the body, contributing to its potential therapeutic effects.

How Might Medical Cannabis Help to Treat Chronic Pain?

Medical cannabis has shown promising potential in managing chronic pain, offering an alternative to traditional pain management methods. Studies suggest cannabinoids can help to reduce inflammation, alleviate pain and modulate pain perception.

In 2021, a large-scale study assessing the long-term effects of medical cannabis on chronic pain found an improvement in all pain measures in response to medication. This was preserved at a 1 year follow up, with average pain intensity having falled by 20% and opioid usage having fallen by 42%.

And it’s not just pain relief. Medical cannabis can provide relief for the mental symptoms associated with chronic pain. One study from 2014 noted that half of their respondents experienced relief from stress/anxiety and 45% experienced relief from insomnia.

It’s important to note that individual responses to medical cannabis can vary, and so patients should always seek guidance from healthcare professionals when considering it as a treatment option.

Ultimately, though, as the potential of medical cannabis in managing chronic pain becomes increasingly evident, embracing this natural alternative may help more patients find relief from chronic pain.

If you’re considering medical cannabis treatment it’s important to discuss your needs with one of our Treat It specialists. This is your chance to take them through your pain symptoms, treatment preferences and medical history. Why not get in touch and schedule your initial consultation today?

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