Hello fellow cannabis learners. This month we’re going to be focusing on how cannabis (as a whole and individual cannabinoids) may be helpful for chronic conditions, specifically chronic pain. Chronic pain is an incredibly prevalent condition, affecting an estimated 20.9% of people living in the USA according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in 20231. Other associations also corroborated that number in 2023, stating that 21% of the USA population deals with chronic pain.2 That is a large percentage of people dealing with chronic pain! Chronic pain is considered to be any pain that lasts 3 months or longer and “has been linked with depression, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, higher suicide risk, and substance use and abuse”.1 Chronic pain is a serious and ongoing concern. Cannabis has been around for a long time and is most widely accepted to be used for pain. Let’s look at how cannabis interacts with our body as related to chronic pain.
The human body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance, or homeostasis. The ECS consists of receptors (CB1 and CB2), endocannabinoids (which our bodies naturally produce), and different enzymes that break down these compounds. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and nervous system and are responsible for modulating (regulating) pain signals. CB2 receptors, located throughout the immune system, are more involved in reducing inflammation. Cannabis-derived cannabinoids like THC and CBD interact with these receptors, potentially helping to regulate pain perception and inflammation levels in individuals with chronic pain.3
THC, the primary psychoactive component of cannabis (the part that gives the high), binds to the CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system. This can alter our pain perceptions and potentially provide relief. This is one reason why many chronic pain patients report benefits from THC-containing cannabis products. However, THC’s psychoactive effects aren’t for everyone and may not be suitable for certain situations. CBD, a non-intoxicating cannabinoid, interacts with CB2 receptors and influences neurotransmitters like serotonin, which may help reduce inflammation and pain sensitivity without the high associated with THC. Studies suggest that using both cannabinoids together—known as the entourage effect—may offer enhanced pain relief compared to using either alone.
For those considering cannabis for chronic pain, there are multiple consumption methods to explore. We’ve discussed several different methods in previous blog posts and I invite you to peruse those or drop your questions in the comment section. Just know that finding the right method for your particular situation is going to be a work in progress. Mostly due to the fact that each person has their own routines and obligations to follow. Cannabis consumption for chronic pain may look like taking cannabis edibles as a morning and nighttime medication but having a vape pen on hand for breakthrough pain throughout the day. Or it might look like applying cannabis creams to arthritic hands or joints first thing in the morning and then whenever needed. As always, it’s best practice to consult a healthcare professional before adding in a new medication. What is your preferred method of consuming cannabis for chronic pain? Have you found a dosing schedule that works right for you? I’d love to hear from you! In this crazy world, keep learning and stay safe!
As always, my book is available either here in the shop or on amazon at this link. If you prefer an alternative to amazon, it is also for sale on IngramSpark here.
References:
4. Cannabinoids modulate pain by multiple mechanisms of action
Richardson, Jennelle Durnett
The Journal of Pain, Volume 1, Issue 1, 2 - 14
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