Medical Marijuana for Dystonia

Nicholas DiBella
October 16, 2024

Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder that causes involuntary muscle contractions, leading to repetitive movements or abnormal postures. It can severely impact daily life, making simple tasks like walking or speaking difficult.

While there is no cure for dystonia, medical marijuana may be a viable option for alleviating its symptoms. For those considering cannabis for dystonia, understanding how it might help, along with the legalities of obtaining a medical marijuana card, can be crucial steps toward better symptom management.

Does Marijuana Help With Dystonia?

Yes, medical marijuana has been shown to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with dystonia. Cannabis may help reduce muscle spasms, pain, and rigidity, which are hallmark symptoms of the condition.

Studies have found that cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, can interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate motor control and reduce muscle stiffness. While research on cannabis for dystonia is still evolving, many patients have reported improvements in muscle relaxation and overall quality of life after using medical marijuana.

For example, in one study by The International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS), 50% of patients with dystonia reported that their symptoms improved overall after taking cannabis, while 85% experienced significant pain relief.

What Is Dystonia and What Are Its Symptoms?

Dystonia is a chronic movement disorder that can affect one part of the body (focal dystonia), multiple parts (segmental dystonia), or the entire body (generalized dystonia). It often results from abnormal brain activity in areas responsible for motor control, such as the basal ganglia. Dystonia can be either inherited or acquired through brain injury, infections, or exposure to certain medications.

Common symptoms of dystonia include:

Involuntary muscle contractions
Repetitive movements or abnormal postures
Tremors
Twisting motions
Pain or discomfort in affected areas

Traditional treatments for dystonia include medications like anticholinergics, botulinum toxin injections (Botox), and physical therapy. In severe cases, deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery might be recommended. However, these treatments do not work for everyone and often come with side effects. This is where medical marijuana may serve as an alternative or complementary option, helping to manage symptoms in a natural way.

Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Dystonia?

Currently, Illinois lists “dystonia” as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana, while New Mexico lists “cervical dystonia,” also known as “spasmodic torticollis.” Even though other states do not mention this condition by name, about half of the medical marijuana states include “chronic pain” as a qualifying condition, while many others include symptoms associated with dystonia such as spasticity.

Also remember that in states like New York, Virginia, and Washington D.C., doctors can recommend medical marijuana to any patient they believe could benefit from its therapeutic effects. It is important to check your state’s laws to find out if you are eligible for a medical marijuana card.

How to Use Marijuana for Dystonia?

There are several methods for using marijuana to treat dystonia. Each method has its benefits, and the best choice usually depends on the patient’s preference. Popular methods include:

Smoking or Vaping: Provides fast relief, but may not be ideal for patients with respiratory issues.
Edibles: Offer longer-lasting effects, but can take time to kick in.
Topicals: May be applied directly to areas affected by muscle contractions or pain, offering localized relief without psychoactive effects.
Oils and Tinctures: Allow for controlled dosing and can be taken sublingually or mixed with food.

Consulting with a medical marijuana doctor can help determine the optimal method and dosage for managing dystonia symptoms. For more information on consumption methods, check out our blog on Edible vs. Smoking.

What Are the Best Marijuana Strains for Dystonia?

When selecting strains of marijuana for dystonia, it’s important to focus on those that help relax muscles and reduce pain. Here are a few strains that may help manage dystonia symptoms:

ACDC (High-CBD): Known for its calming effects and minimal psychoactivity, ACDC may be beneficial for reducing muscle spasms without causing a “high.”
Sour Diesel (Sativa): This strain has energizing effects and is often used for pain relief, making it a good option for daytime use.
Northern Lights (Indica): Known for its relaxing properties, Northern Lights is often recommended for nighttime use to help with muscle relaxation and pain relief.

If you’re curious about the differences between indica and sativa strains, you can learn more in our Indica vs. Sativa guide.

What Are the Potential Risks and Side Effects of Using Cannabis for Dystonia?

While cannabis may help manage the symptoms of dystonia, there are potential risks and side effects to consider. Some individuals may experience dizziness, dry mouth, or fatigue when using cannabis, especially at higher doses. Additionally, long-term cannabis use can lead to tolerance, which lessens the therapeutic effects of cannabis. It’s important to start with a low dose and consult with your doctor to find the best balance for your needs.

Conclusion

Medical marijuana holds promise as a natural way to manage the muscle contractions, pain, and rigidity associated with dystonia. While traditional treatments remain an option, many individuals find that cannabis provides additional relief with fewer side effects.

If you’re considering marijuana as part of your treatment plan, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute can help you obtain a medical marijuana card to access this alternative therapy.