Marijuana For Arthritis
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Marijuana has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain in a wide variety of medical conditions, including arthritis. A growing number of states are now legalizing marijuana for medical use, and many people are using it to treat their arthritis symptoms. But can weed actually help treat arthritis?
What is Arthritis and What are the Symptoms?
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. The symptoms of arthritis vary depending on the type of arthritis that you have. Some common symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Joint stiffness
- Joint swelling
- Redness and warmth around the joints
- Difficulty moving the joints
There are many different types of arthritis, but the two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the result of normal wear and tear on your joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can affect various parts of your body.
How Can Marijuana Treat Arthritis?
There are many ways that marijuana can help relieve arthritis pain. For one, marijuana is a potent anti-inflammatory, which can help to reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis. Additionally, marijuana has been shown to be an effective analgesic, meaning it can help to reduce pain. Finally, marijuana has been shown to improve sleep quality, which can be beneficial for those with arthritis who often have difficulty sleeping due to pain.
Side Effects of Using Marijuana for Arthritis
The side effects of marijuana for arthritis can vary depending on the person. Some people may experience anxiety, dizziness, or dry mouth. Others may find that marijuana helps relieve their arthritis symptoms, but it is important to consult with a doctor before using it to treat this condition.
How to Use Marijuana for Arthritis
There are many different strains of marijuana, and it is important to find the one that works best for you. It is also important to start with a small dose and increase it gradually so as to avoid any negative side effects. Some people may also want to consider using CBD oil, which is derived from marijuana but does not contain THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis.
Conclusion
Marijuana can be an effective treatment for the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Still, if you are considering using marijuana to treat your arthritis, be sure to speak with your doctor first to ensure it is safe for you to do so.
States Where We Offer Medical Marijuana Card Services
How we reviewed this article:
- Does CBD help with arthritis pain?
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/does-cbd-help-with-arthritis-pain-2020041019418 - Can You Use Medical Marijuana (Cannabis) for Arthritis Pain?
https://www.healthline.com/health/arthritis/marijuana-for-arthritis
Current Version
April 28, 2022
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
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Jake Peter received his journalism degree from Emerson College and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2021. He is passionate about all things cannabis.