Marijuana for Spinal Cord Injury and Intractable Spasticity

Nicholas DiBella
October 15, 2024

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) and intractable spasticity are debilitating conditions that can significantly reduce a person’s quality of life. Traditional treatments, while helpful, often fall short of fully managing the painful muscle spasms and other symptoms associated with these conditions.

In recent years, medical marijuana has emerged as a potential treatment option for individuals suffering from spinal cord injuries and spasticity, offering an alternative that might help alleviate pain and discomfort when other treatments fail.

Does Marijuana Help With Spinal Cord Injury and Intractable Spasticity?

Yes, medical marijuana has been shown to help people with spinal cord injuries and intractable spasticity by reducing symptoms like chronic pain, muscle spasms, and inflammation.

Studies have indicated that certain cannabinoids in marijuana, particularly cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), may have muscle-relaxing properties and pain-relieving effects. These cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, spasticity, and other neurological functions.

For individuals with SCI, spasticity often arises from disrupted nerve pathways, leading to involuntary muscle tightness or contractions. The use of medical marijuana might provide relief by modulating nerve activity and reducing the hyperactive muscle responses that cause spasticity.

What Is Spinal Cord Injury and What Are Its Symptoms?

Spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord, often resulting in partial or complete loss of sensation and motor function below the site of injury. This can be caused by trauma, such as car accidents, falls, or sports injuries, or by medical conditions like infections or degenerative diseases. The severity of the injury depends on the location of the damage and the extent to which the spinal cord has been affected. Common symptoms of SCI include:

Loss of movement or sensation below the site of injury
Muscle weakness or paralysis
Chronic pain, often neuropathic in nature
Difficulty breathing, coughing, or clearing secretions in higher-level injuries
Bladder and bowel dysfunction

Intractable spasticity is a common complication of SCI. It refers to sustained muscle tightness and stiffness that is resistant to standard treatments. This can cause significant discomfort and can interfere with mobility, sleep, and daily activities.

Traditional treatment options for spasticity include physical therapy, oral medications like muscle relaxants, and in severe cases, surgery. However, these treatments are not always effective, leading many individuals to seek alternatives like medical marijuana.

Can You Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Spinal Cord Injury and Intractable Spasticity?

Currently 10 states list spinal cord injury or disease as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana including Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and and Illinois. Spasticity is also specifically listed as a qualifying condition in 10 states including Louisiana, New Jersey, and Montana.

In some states like New York, Virginia, and Washington D.C., physicians can prescribe medical marijuana to any patient they believe would benefit from treatment, so it is important to check your state’s medical marijuana laws. Learn more about your state’s medical marijuana laws by consulting our interactive map resource: “Medical Marijuana Laws by State.”.

To obtain a medical marijuana card, you need to be evaluated by a certified medical marijuana doctor who can determine whether your condition qualifies. At The Sanctuary, we help individuals navigate the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card so they can access cannabis treatments legally. Most states require a doctor’s recommendation and approval, but specific qualifications and processes vary by state.

How to Use Marijuana for Spinal Cord Injury and Intractable Spasticity?

There are several ways to use medical marijuana for treating spinal cord injury and spasticity. The method of consumption can vary depending on individual preferences and physical limitations caused by the injury. Some popular methods include:

Smoking or Vaping: Inhalation delivers the fastest relief since cannabinoids are absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the lungs. However, some individuals may have difficulty smoking due to respiratory issues, especially if their spinal injury is high up on the cord.
Edibles or Oils: Cannabis-infused foods, such as gummies or chocolates, offer a long-lasting effect, although they take longer to kick in. Edibles are a good option for individuals who cannot or prefer not to smoke.
Topicals: For localized pain relief, cannabis-infused creams and lotions can be applied directly to the skin. These products do not produce psychoactive effects and can be used alongside other methods.
Oils and Tinctures: These are taken sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed into food or drinks. Oils provide a controlled dosage and are ideal for people looking for precise administration.

For more information on cannabis consumption methods, take a look at our blog on Edibles vs. Smoking. If you’re unsure which method is best for you, it’s important to consult with a medical marijuana doctor who can guide you based on your condition and symptoms.

What Are the Best Marijuana Strains for Spinal Cord Injury and Intractable Spasticity?

Several marijuana strains may help alleviate the symptoms of spinal cord injury and intractable spasticity. The best strains typically offer a balance of cannabinoids that provide both muscle relaxation and pain relief. Some recommended strains include:

ACDC: Known for its high CBD content, this strain is ideal for reducing inflammation and muscle spasticity without causing a high.
Harlequin: Harlequin has a balanced ratio of CBD to THC, offering both pain relief and muscle relaxation without intense psychoactive effects.
OG Kush: This strain is known for its powerful pain-relieving and relaxing properties, making it a popular choice for managing chronic pain and spasticity.
Granddaddy Purple: Granddaddy Purple is often used to treat pain, muscle spasms, and sleep disorders, all of which are common issues for people with SCI.

Conclusion

Medical marijuana might offer much-needed relief for individuals with spinal cord injuries and intractable spasticity, helping to manage chronic pain and muscle spasms. While cannabis is not a cure, it has shown promising potential as an adjunct therapy when traditional treatments are not enough. If you’re considering medical marijuana for your condition, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute can guide you through the process of obtaining a medical marijuana card.