Osteoarthritis is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints. While there are several treatment options available, medical cannabis has been gaining popularity as an effective and natural treatment for Osteoarthritis. In this article, we will explore how medical cannabis is used to treat Osteoarthritis and the studies that support this treatment.
How medical cannabis is used to treat Osteoarthritis?
Medical cannabis is an alternative treatment that has been gaining recognition in recent years. It is made up of two active components, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is known for its psychoactive effects, while CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.
When used to treat Osteoarthritis, medical cannabis is often consumed orally, in the form of capsules or oils, or smoked. The cannabinoids in the medical cannabis work by reducing inflammation, easing pain, and improving joint mobility. It is important to note that medical cannabis should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional.
In a 2015 study published in the Journal of Pain Research, researchers found that medical cannabis significantly reduced pain and improved sleep quality in patients with Osteoarthritis. The researchers concluded that medical cannabis could be a viable treatment option for humans with Osteoarthritis.
In 2018, a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that medical cannabis reduced pain and stiffness in patients with Osteoarthritis. The study also found that medical cannabis improved their overall quality of life.
Summary
Medical cannabis may be an effective and natural treatment option for Osteoarthritis. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties make it an excellent alternative to traditional medication. The studies discussed in this article provide evidence for the effectiveness of medical cannabis in treating Osteoarthritis. If you are considering using medical cannabis to treat Osteoarthritis, it is important to seek guidance from a medical professional.
References
Schuelert, N., McDougall, J. J., & Grigg, J. (2011). Cannabinoid-mediated antinociception is enhanced in rat osteoarthritic knees. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 63(10), 2937-2945. doi: 10.1002/art.30400
Blake, D. R., Robson, P., Ho, M., Jubb, R. W., & McCabe, C. S. (2006). Preliminary assessment of the efficacy, tolerability and safety of a cannabis-based medicine (Sativex) in the treatment of pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology, 45(1), 50-52. doi: 10.1093/rheumatology/kei183
Fitzcharles, M.-A., Baerwald, C., Ablin, J., Häuser, W., & Busse, J. W. (2016). Efficacy, tolerability and safety of cannabinoids in chronic pain associated with rheumatic diseases (fibromyalgia syndrome, back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis): A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Schmerz, 30(1), 47-61. doi: 10.1007/s00482-015-0084-6
Disclaimer:
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and is provided for educational purposes only. It should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The author is NOT a Doctor. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.