{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/pain/2","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2648-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Can Help Ease Arthritis Pain & Inflammation","slug":"how-cannabis-can-help-ease-arthritis-pain-and-inflammation","content":"Characterized by pain and inflammation in the joints, [arthritis affects one in four adults over the age of 18, and one in every 250 children](http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/arthritis-statistics-facts.php). It’s also the leading cause of disability in the United States. While there are many types of arthritis, they all typically involve swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion in the joints. These [symptoms may be mild or severe, and may come and go, but for most they represent a daily struggle with pain](http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/what-is-arthritis.php) and the ability to function normally. In severe cases, patients may even be unable to complete simple tasks like walking or grasping objects. \n\nFor many of those with severe arthritis, the options are limited: suffer through the pain, or [take dangerous and addictive painkillers like opiates](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5660ceb8584a7100080000c1/death-score-opioids-16235-cannabis-0). In this article, part of our series for cannabis newcomers, we explore cannabis as another, safer option to prescription painkillers. A growing number of arthritis sufferers are flocking to cannabis for its pain- and inflammation-reducing effects.  \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Chris Finds Success With Cannabis for His Arthritis\n\nChris, an arthritis sufferer from Gilroy, CA, says that he’s found great relief using cannabis. The 34-year-old was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis as a child—at around age eight or nine—when fevers, pain and inflammation began interfering with his life. After suffering through a painful childhood, Chris decided to try cannabis as an adult.\n\n\"I had friends suggesting I try cannabis for medical purposes,” Chris says. “I decided to go ahead and give it a try. And then, lo and behold, it started helping a lot with inflammation and whenever I would have soreness or stiffness.” \n\nChris says he’s been able to reduce his pain with the use of cannabis, and while not completely gone, the plant has helped him function in spite of his pain. Chris says he prefers this option to pharmaceuticals. “Cannabis never numbs you completely, as opposed to using opiates and stuff like that which completely numbs you,” he explains.\n\nAccording to Chris, topicals and smoked cannabis have been most helpful. He’s also found that strain selection is key. “I've noticed different strains help with different symptoms [better] than others do,” he says. “So that's also something I'm exploring.”\n\nChris has been using cannabis daily for the past five years now. His opinion on cannabis for arthritis? “It helps, quite significantly,” he says.\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS SOOTHES ARTHRITIS PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5822789665e8fd000cc74ebc/cannabis-soothes-arthritis-pain)\n\n### Cannabis Relieves Pain & May Reverse Damage Caused by Arthritis \n\nChris joins a growing number of folks who are finding cannabis can help them. When it comes to arthritis, chronic pain is the main symptom that patients seek to address; it’s also the most common reason people use cannabis.\n\nIn fact, in a recent study conducted by UC Berkeley and HelloMD, [81% of patients reported that cannabis alone was more effective at relieving their pain than using opioids was](http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2017.0012). Meanwhile, almost all survey respondents (97%) reported that they were able to lower their dose of opioids by introducing cannabis into their pain-management regimen. Similar results were reported for patients using non-opioid painkillers as well. \n\nIn addition, cannabis can help with inflammation, which is often at the root of arthritis. Scientists have begun to study the anti-inflammatory effects of cannabis and hope to use it specifically on rheumatoid arthritis.\n\nIt turns out that our body’s natural endocannabinoid system (ECS) has a lot to do with moderating our immune system and inflammation levels. Since certain cannabinoids are able to activate the ECS, scientists believe cannabis’s phytocannabinoids may be able to reduce inflammation while actually beginning to reverse the damage caused by it. One Canadian study that’s currently underway is looking at this mechanism to [see if cannabis therapies can actually aid in the repair and reduction of pain caused by arthritis](http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/dalhousie-researcher-investigates-use-of-marijuana-for-arthritis-pain-1.3142592).\n\nRELATED: [3 POPULAR QUESTIONS ABOUT MARIJUANA & ARTHRITIS ANSWERED](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a720780f24d1300077ccb25/3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-arthritis-answered)\n\n### Treating Arthritis With Cannabis \n\nIf you suffer from arthritis and think cannabis might be right for you, the best first step is to talk to a doctor. You can [consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online. \n\nWhether you have a medical marijuana card or live in a state where you can purchase through recreational means, there are many options you can try. Cannabis’s many forms can help arthritis, so it’s really about finding the best options for you. Marijuana-infused topicals, for example, can be applied directly to the affected area without any psychoactive effects. Some folks prefer cannabis edibles for their long-lasting, full-body pain relief, while others choose to smoke and vape for its quick-acting effects.\n\nWhatever you try, remember that cannabis can affect people differently, so you may need to try a few options before you find the right one for you. \n\nIn the next installment of the Cannabis for Newbies guide, we'll get into how cannabis works as a powerful anti-inflammatory.\n\nPhoto credit: [Felipe P. Lima Rizo](https://unsplash.com/@plqmr)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEBf/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEA/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGyR80oxBP/xAAaEAADAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDBBMR/9oACAEBAAEFApts3GuSrwx2mbSvof/EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQMBAT8BP//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQIBAT8BP//EABsQAAEEAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEAAQIQEjFB/9oACAEBAAY/Ag6BvKWuV//EABkQAQADAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESExEP/aAAgBAQABPyFWAOBXkY0XGM7DYLZTz//aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQK9//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEP/aAAgBAwEBPxBn/8QAFhEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARAh/9oACAECAQE/EBV//8QAGRABAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREAIUEx/9oACAEBAAE/EJXLLQzlAaV1PeZ2kLeM0uUB3ILHqvgeTXf/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/14b42/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/f836f/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg 200w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/2244e/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg 400w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/14b42/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg 800w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/47498/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/0e329/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg 1600w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/7c89d/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.jpg 3636w","srcWebp":"/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/58556/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/61e93/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp 200w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/1f5c5/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp 400w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/58556/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp 800w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/99238/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp 1200w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/7c22d/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp 1600w,\n/static/3858605f4e25cd7aaab9a919fc14a9a1/02a42/367b4b0e97683395959653acfbbf894f.webp 3636w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2630-markdown","title":"How Does Cannabis Work to Relieve Migraines?","slug":"how-does-cannabis-work-to-relieve-migraines","content":"There are few physical experiences as excruciating as a [migraine, which includes a throbbing headache, intense nausea and a heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli like light, sounds, flavors, smells or touch](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201). You may even experience visual distortions like bright spots of light partially blocking your range of vision.\n\nA migraine attack can be a frightening and extremely painful experience. For the [37 million people who suffer from migraines](https://migraine.com/migraine-statistics/), this can be a debilitating condition that gets in the way of everyday life.\n\nIn this article, part of a series for folks new to cannabis, we take a look at both anecdotal and research-based evidence on cannabis’s ability to provide patients relief from these often-agonizing headaches. Many patients are also finding that [cannabis can prevent their painful migraines](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/586990111eefb000085918c5/marijuana-insomnia-and-migraines-lizs-success-story).  \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Jen’s Success Preventing Migraines With Cannabis\n\nJen is one patient whose found cannabis very helpful in easing her migraines. Jen has had painful migraines since she hit puberty and believes they’re related to hormonal changes taking place during her menstrual cycle.\n\n“The [migraines] correlate with my menstrual cycle, and so typically my window for having a migraine is the week before my period, the day before and the day of,” she explains.\n\nFor years, these migraines were debilitating. She recalls the last one, saying, “I woke up in the middle of the night, and my eyes just popped open. I thought, ‘I have a headache. No!’” Jen continues, “I count the amount of times I throw up, knowing that eventually I get to a point where I start to feel relief and then I can do things.” \n\nStill, Jen says that she can actually help prevent these headaches, if she takes regular doses of cannabis edibles. “During what I would consider my trigger week, where I could be at risk of getting a headache, I essentially start taking a regular anti-inflammatory,” she says. “The [cannabis edibles] seem to be able to keep me from getting a headache.” And she adds, “There was a lot of trial and error as to what kind of strains really were effective [for me].”\n\nWhile Jen’s still searching for a solution to reverse her worst headaches once they get started, she says she has fewer migraines now that she takes cannabis as a preventative measure. \n\nRELATED: [LIFESTYLE CHANGES YOU CAN MAKE TO PREVENT MIGRAINES](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59e6508d6550b60e555e1bf7/lifestyle-changes-you-can-make-to-prevent-migraines)\n\n### Research Supports Cannabis as a Solution for Migraines \n\nJen is one of a growing number of [folks using cannabis successfully to relieve their migraines](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5834944a14533400080243bc/marijuana-and-migraines-sallys-success-story). In fact, research suggests that cannabis use can significantly reduce the amount of migraines a person experiences. In one study, [85% of patients said they had fewer migraines when they consumed cannabis](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/phar.1673/full), with the average number of headaches going down from 10.4 to 4.6 per month. \n\nCannabis’s effectiveness when it comes to easing migraine pain may be due in part to the plant’s natural pain-relieving properties. Both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) have been shown to reduce pain as well as inflammation. In addition, these [cannabinoids reduce the body’s natural stress response, which can actually trigger the onset of a migraine](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/577d4650d64ada0007000013/treating-migraines-with-marijuana-dr-patricia-frye). \n\nIn addition, cannabis can help raise serotonin levels. While it’s still unclear exactly how serotonin affects migraines, [low levels of serotonin are linked to the condition](https://www.disabled-world.com/health/neurology/migraine/serotonin.php). Some believe that increasing serotonin levels—as is possible through the use of THC—can help ease migraine symptoms. \n\n### Using Cannabis to Treat Migraines \n\nIf you suffer from migraines and think cannabis might be right for you, the best first step is to talk to a doctor. You can [consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online. \n\nWhether you have a medical marijuana card or live in a state where you can purchase through recreational means, there are many cannabis options on the market today. Research suggests that a combination of CBD and THC can help prevent migraines, but what ratios and strains work best can vary from person to person. Some prefer a higher level of CBD to reduce the side effects of THC (such as anxiety or feeling too high). Others prefer the heightened pain relief and serotonin-boosting powers of THC, and use more of it relative to CBD. \n\nResearchers have found that patients usually need at least a [200 mg dose of CBD and THC to stop a migraine that has already begun](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/595d2e1aa58a9e28f07d6762/new-study-finds-cannabis-effective-in-treatment-for-migraines). This is an extremely high dose, so talk to your doctor and proceed carefully. Taking such a mega-dose may be a disorienting experience until your body builds up a tolerance to the psychoactive aspects of THC. If you’re sensitive to THC, make sure to balance it out with plenty of CBD, which reduces THC’s psychoactive effects.  \n\nWhatever you try, remember that cannabis can affect people differently, so you may need to try a few options before you find the right one for you. \n\nIn the next installment of our Cannabis for Newbies series, we put the spotlight on consuming cannabis as a means of relieving arthritis pain and inflammation.\n\nPhoto credit: [Ben White](https://unsplash.com/@benwhitephotography)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/14b42/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/f836f/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg 200w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/2244e/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg 400w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/14b42/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg 800w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/47498/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/0e329/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg 1600w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/7c89d/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.jpg 3636w","srcWebp":"/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/58556/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/61e93/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp 200w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/1f5c5/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp 400w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/58556/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp 800w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/99238/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp 1200w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/7c22d/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp 1600w,\n/static/5cb9647a2595f19aad996aa739f805b5/02a42/d63d44337edacf4ae53726134a320625.webp 3636w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2589-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Fibromyalgia Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-fibromyalgia-answered","content":"After arthritis, fibromyalgia is the most common skeletal pain condition. It’s thought that around 10 million people in the U.S. live with fibromyalgia, which can manifest in stiffness and pain, lethargy and difficulty with memory. Many times, fibromyalgia is accompanied by other painful conditions like migraines and irritable bowel syndrome. \n\nIt’s not known exactly what causes fibromyalgia, but researchers are now looking into the brain. Some think that the constant [nerve stimulation makes the brains of fibromyalgia patients change and increase pain signals](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354780). Other researchers think that fibromyalgia sufferers have more blood flow to the parts of the brain that deal with pain signals and [less blood flow to the parts that regulate pain responses](https://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/fibromyalgia/fibromyalgia-study-its-real-disease). \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/564935726915516/united-states/san-francisco-california/hellomd/)\n\nWe know that compounds in marijuana bond with endocannabinoid system (ECS) receptors, which are found throughout the body and help modulate many processes including pain management, movement and memory. So, it fits that cannabis could help fibromyalgia suffers with pain and all of the related symptoms. \n\nWe’ve gathered the most popular Q&As from our [Answers](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) page about how cannabis can help ease the symptoms of fibromyalgia. If you have an additional question about marijuana for fibromyalgia, please feel free to post it on our website and a knowledgeable member of our community will be happy to answer it for you. \n\n### Q: What are others using to help with fibromyalgia?\nAnswer: [@pamelahadfield](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-not-opioids-hellomds-pamela-hadfield-on-nowthis/) I have had fibromyalgia and what helped me was using a tincture 2–3 times a day. I use a 4:1 tincture and a 20:1 high-cannabidiol (CBD) tincture. A company called Care By Design also has 20:1 gel caps that are 10 mg tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) each, I believe. It took a while for the effects to really be felt, but now I don't get the random pains anymore. My case isn’t severe, however.\n\nHere’s a link to several articles we’ve written about fibromyalgia:\n\nhttps://hellomd.com/tag/fibromyalgia/\n\nI hope this helps!\n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA & FIBROMYALGIA: MARY’S SUCCESS STORY](https://hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-and-fibromyalgia-marys-success-story/)\n\n### Q: Would CBD be a good choice for fibromyalgia?\n**_ Any advice from a doctor would be greatly appreciated._**\n\nAnswer: [@drkim](https://www.hellomd.com/people/5896394f4c4b960008abd774/drkim) For pain and mood symptoms due to fibromyalgia, most patients benefit from both THC and CBD. CBD on its own, for most fibromyalgia patients, does not provide adequate relief. THC is also a vital component when treating the mood symptoms related to fibromyalgia.\n\nAccordingly, I recommend neither pure CBD, nor even low THC-containing products. Microdosing a low dose of sativa would be an effective dosing protocol for most. Naturally, please trial in a safe environment and avoid operating heavy machinery such as an automobile. Please consult a qualified cannabis physician before starting any cannabis protocol.\n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/what-products-would-be-best-for-fibromyalgia/).\n\n### Q: The right cartridge for fibromyalgia?\n**_I just looked at the strains that are good for fibromyalgia, but I’ve been using a vape pen and the names for the cartridges are different. Maybe I'm just confused and new at this, the dispensary that I went to was not very helpful and didn’t seem to know much about the cartridges. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you._**\n\nAnswer: [@drolson](https://www.hellomd.com/people/550c5a786336370003010000/drolson) The names of the oils are not as significant as the contents. Please look for a high-CBD oil. AC/DC, Harlequin and Cannatonic are three of the more popular high-CBD strains and therefore oils to vaporize to get you out of pain almost immediately. At the same time, you may start oral CBD in tincture form, since they do take about a month to build up in your system and become fully effective. But in any form, CBD works to get rid of the inflammatory cells.\n\nVitamin D has also been shown to help healing in cases like fibromyalgia. Ideally the blood level for vitamin D to overcome chronic pain would be above 55ng/ml, but don’t take your vitamin D on the day you're having your blood tested or it could appear erroneously high.\n\nPhoto credit: [huyen.](https://unsplash.com/@byhuyen/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana) guide. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/14b42/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/f836f/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg 200w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/2244e/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg 400w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/14b42/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg 800w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/47498/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/0e329/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg 1600w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/5912d/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.jpg 3530w","srcWebp":"/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/58556/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/61e93/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp 200w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/1f5c5/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp 400w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/58556/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp 800w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/99238/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp 1200w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/7c22d/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp 1600w,\n/static/9792acb3b341aade6a82249c3f08fc2b/b3a9e/c386cd3dc9fe2fa68a8a8ffc639a1db3.webp 3530w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2614-markdown","title":"Cannabis: A Better Alternative to Benzodiazepines","slug":"cannabis-a-better-alternative-to-benzodiazepines","content":"While the opioid epidemic has been grabbing headlines nationwide for its staggering impact on lives and productivity, [prescriptions of benzodiazepines, another class of potent drugs, have also been soaring](https://psychnews.psychiatryonline.org/doi/full/10.1176/appi.pn.2016.PP3b2?code=psychnews-site). Between 1996 and 2013, the number of adults filling a prescription for some type of benzodiazepine, or benzo, jumped by 67%. These powerful medications for anxiety, insomnia and a number of other conditions are implicated in roughly 8,000 overdose deaths a year. But just as it does for opioids, cannabis could be an exit drug out of benzodiazepine dependency and abuse, because of its ability to affect the same neural pathways in the brain.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Are Benzodiazepines?\n\nBenzodiazepines are a large [class of lab-synthesized drugs](https://www.rxlist.com/benzodiazepines/drugs-condition.htm) that includes:\n\n* Diazepam (Valium) \n* Lorazepam (Ativan) \n* Clonazepam (Klonopin)\n* Alprazolam (Xanax)\n\nThese [medications are widely prescribed](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/demystifying-psychiatry/201505/how-many-people-take-benzodiazepines) for conditions such as:\n\n* Anxiety \n* Insomnia \n* Nervousness \n* Panic disorders \n* Seizures \n* Muscle spasms \n\nSometimes they’re also used for sedation during surgery, and to treat premenstrual syndrome and the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. \n\n### The Many, Sometimes Deadly Side Effects of Benzodiazepines\n\nLike opioids, benzodiazepines are intended largely for short-term use, because they act relatively quickly. This means they’re prescribed for acute situations, such as calming a patient before a surgical procedure or easing the anxiety of a traveler before a flight. But also, similar to opioids, these drugs are frequently prescribed for long periods of time, which can lead to a number of serious side effects and addiction. \n\nBenzodiazepines alone are only rarely responsible for overdose deaths. But because they depress the central nervous system, which controls respiration, heart rate and other autonomous functions, they can contribute to death by overdose when they’re taken along with other kinds of central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or opioids.  \n\nThough they’re not likely to be fatal, these drugs do have a long list of side effects. The more minor of these include:\n\n* Dizziness\n* Confusion\n* Problems with memory and concentration\n* Gastrointestinal problems\n* Poor balance\n* Fatigue \n\nBut serious effects can also occur, such as:\n\n* Jaundice\n* Severe low blood pressure\n* Elevated heart rate\n* Musculoskeletal problems\n* Cognitive decline and dementia (especially in older people who take them for long periods of time)\n\n### How Do Benzodiazepines Work?\n\nScience still hasn’t clearly established the exact reasons benzodiazepines work, but recent research points to their ability to affect a network of receptors in the brain related to the body’s production and use of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), an amino acid that inhibits the transmission of nerve impulses in the central nervous system. Because GABA slows neural activity, and benzodiazepines have been shown to enhance the effects of GABA, this relationship appears to account for benzos’ calming, slowing effects that reduce anxiety and promote sleep and muscle relaxation. \n\nMalfunctions in the GABA receptor system seem to play a role in a number of psychological and neurological conditions such as:\n\n* Anxiety\n* Panic\n* Insomnia\n* Epilepsy\n\nSome research suggests that schizophrenia and other psychoses might be related to GABA deficiency. Though GABA receptors are found in many areas of the brain, they’re especially prevalent in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala, areas related to managing emotion, cognition and coordination.  \n\nBenzodiazepines can bind to GABA receptors to boost their inhibitory activity. But so can cannabis—and the relationship between the GABA receptor system and the body’s large network of endocannabinoid receptors reveals why cannabis products can be safe and effective alternatives to benzodiazepines for just about every condition these drugs are used to treat.\n\n### The Cannabis/GABA Connection\n\nEndocannabinoid receptors are found in organs and tissue throughout the body, binding both to cannabinoids produced internally and to those from outside sources such as spices and cannabis. The [cannabinoid receptor CB1 occurs widely in the \nbrain](http://www.jneurosci.org/content/21/23/9506?utm_source=TrendMD&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=JNeurosci_TrendMD_0), especially in the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus and amygdala—areas that are also rich in GABA receptors.  \n\n[Anandamide](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a949d06f24d1300077ccb66/eating-anandamide-the-bliss-molecule) and 2-AG, the body’s natural cannabinoids, also promote feelings of calm and relaxation—and recent research indicates that [they can affect processes\nthat reduce the release of GABA](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs00213-017-4648-z), just as benzodiazepines do. And because cannabinoids from cannabis, particularly cannabidiol (CBD), bind to the same receptors as natural cannabinoids do, they support those processes, too. \n\n### Cannabis Offers Benzo Benefits—Without the Risks\n\nCannabis products of all kinds, especially those high in CBD, can be effective—and far safer—alternatives for benzodiazepines. Although endocannabinoid receptors are found in relatively large numbers in many areas of the brain, they’re notably absent in the brainstem—unlike receptors for both opioids and GABA. For that reason, cannabis is extremely unlikely to cause or contribute to an overdose death.   \n\nRELATED: [TOP 10 HIGH-CBD MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR ANXIETY](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57f2b7f12b1e99000a671ac3/top-10-high-cbd-marijuana-strains-for-anxiety)\n\nWhen used for long periods of time, benzodiazepines can override the body’s own expression of GABA. These medications can become addictive, and when stopped, they can trigger a series of potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. The risk of benzodiazepine addiction is so high that a majority of drug rehab programs now include treatment for them alongside protocols for opioids and other kinds of drugs.\n\nBut stopping cannabis causes few, if any, physical withdrawal symptoms. And because cannabis affects all of the functions of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), it brings with it other positive effects such as immune system support and relief from pain and the symptoms of a long list of health conditions.\n\nRecent research on cannabis as a substitute for prescription medications reveals that an [overwhelming majority of cannabis consumers were able to reduce or stop using not only opioids, but also other medications](https://arstechnica.com/science/2017/06/survey-pain-patients-overwhelmingly-prefer-medical-marijuana-over-opioids) including benzodiazepines, by using cannabis. \n\nThe documented benefits of cannabis include relief from anxiety, insomnia and depression, as well as the symptoms of epilepsy and other disorders that are currently treated with benzodiazepines. In all its forms, cannabis works with the brain’s GABA pathways just as benzos do—and it just might be an exit drug from this burgeoning addiction epidemic, too.\n\nPhoto credit: [Thought Catalog](https://unsplash.com/@thoughtcatalog)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/14b42/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/f836f/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/2244e/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 400w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/14b42/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 800w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/47498/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/0e329/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/0cde8/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.jpg 3671w","srcWebp":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/58556/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/61e93/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/1f5c5/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 400w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/58556/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 800w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/99238/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 1200w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/7c22d/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 1600w,\n/static/4bf290492e24a284c177d3093d87e627/2bed0/f91d21380072882e5728c4f5267e65ad.webp 3671w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2621-markdown","title":"Cannabis: A Workplace Solution for Chronic Pain","slug":"cannabis-a-workplace-solution-for-chronic-pain","content":"The opioid epidemic claims lives and impacts American society in many ways, but recent figures from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reveal that the [greatest financial stress of opioid misuse and addiction are felt by employers](https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2018/02/13/585199746/cost-of-u-s-opioid-epidemic-since-2001-is-1-trillion-and-climbing). Lost productivity, workplace accidents and injury are among the costs affecting employers of all kinds when workers use these powerful prescription painkillers. \r\n\r\nA growing body of evidence shows that cannabis is a safer and more effective alternative to opioids—one that can save billions by keeping workers on the job. But employers who want to include cannabis in a workplace wellness strategy will need to overcome challenges including legal issues, prevailing myths about cannabis and the reluctance of network doctors to recommend the plant as treatment. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### How Do Opioids Affect the Workplace?\r\n\r\nEven though they’re initially prescribed for legitimate pain conditions, opioids are recommended for short-term use only. In fact, studies suggest that they may not even be particularly effective in the long term. But a majority of doctors generally prescribe them for longer periods, or indefinitely. \r\n\r\nWhether prescribed for a condition outside of work or as a result of a workplace injury, opioid misuse can lead to poor productivity, absenteeism and workplace accidents. Employees struggling with addiction and the side effects of opioids miss more work than their peers, and a significant number of people who use opioids while recuperating from a workplace injury never actually return to work at all. That results in higher costs and lower revenues for companies in a variety of sectors.\r\n\r\nMany [solutions for supporting people with legitimate chronic pain while avoiding the very harmful consequences of taking opioids have been proposed](http://www.nsc.org/learn/NSC-Initiatives/Pages/Prescription-Nation-White-Paper.aspx). These include more stringent drug testing, seeking out doctors with a more conservative approach to opioids and providing support for employees struggling with addiction. But both insurers and the CDC have suggested [recommending alternative methods of pain management](http://www.constructionexec.com/article/a-prescription-for-reducing-workers-comp-costs)—and for many people, cannabis can be the most effective option. But to make cannabis a viable solution for workers in pain, employers must advocate—and educate.\r\n\r\n### Challenging the Myths About Cannabis\r\n\r\nCannabis has a fearsome reputation as an illegal substance with no medical applications. For many people, including employers, the idea of using cannabis conjures up images of stoned employees moving through the workday at half speed, dealing drugs on the premises and a host of other undesirable behaviors. Others are doubtful about the medical benefits of marijuana and cannabis’s ability to relieve pain and the symptoms of a wide range of health conditions.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE SCIENCE BEHIND WHY MARIJUANA IS SAFER THAN OPIOIDS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a453281100a820006562f3f/the-science-behind-why-marijuana-is-safer-than-opioids)\r\n\r\nA workplace campaign to promote cannabis as a way out of opioid use needs to be able to address these issues, and that begins with education. Workplace trainings can draw from the growing body of research that shows how cannabis for medical purposes is very different than recreational cannabis use. Many people who use cannabis medically rely on the non-psychoactive compounds in the cannabis plant for pain relief, most famously cannabidiol (CBD). \r\n\r\nEmployee assistance programs designed to help workers with addiction and other issues could include cannabis as an option to reduce dependence on opioids—or eliminate them altogether. But even if employees learn about medical cannabis, they can still have problems getting access to it.\r\n\r\nOn the federal level, cannabis is still an illegal substance on the most restrictive Schedule 1 of the Controlled Substances Act. And although many states have legalized cannabis in some form, those laws aren’t consistent—and they don’t apply across state lines. In states where medical cannabis is available, not all health conditions are considered eligible, and not all doctors are willing to recommend it or refer patients to dispensaries.\r\n\r\n### Managing the Medical Perspective of Cannabis\r\n\r\nSome opioid reduction plans proposed by workers’ compensation representatives and workplace safety advisers also recommend that employers either work with doctors to reduce the amount of opioids being prescribed for workplace injuries, or seek out doctors who generally prescribe fewer opioids.  \r\n\r\nOverall, a large number—76% in one survey—of [American doctors are in favor of using cannabis for medical purposes](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/survey-76-percent-of-doctors-approve-of-medical-marijuana-use/), at least in theory. But many medical professionals still maintain that cannabis is a dangerous substance with limited research supporting its medical benefits.  \r\n\r\nSome doctors say that prescribing cannabis is risky because it can be difficult to standardize doses, and individual responses can vary widely. Others doubt the medical applications of a substance so popular for recreational use and fear that users could simply substitute one addiction for another. And for some, prescribing opioids is simply easier and more lucrative.  \r\n\r\n### Next Steps if You Think Medical Cannabis Is Right for Your Workplace\r\n\r\n* Encourage employees to [talk about cannabis with their doctors](https://patriotcare.org/talk-doctor-medical-marijuana/)—and encourage doctors to [talk about it with their patients](https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/medical-marijuana-2018011513085). This can help nudge companies towards considering cannabis as a workable alternative for pain management and a way to reduce the liabilities caused by opioids.\r\n\r\n* Present recent research on [cannabis as an effective pain reliever](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5569620/) as doctors and insurers like hard data. Recent studies show that large numbers of people have been able to [reduce their use of opioids with cannabis](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/595413ae914ae4001b40307a/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-release-study-on-cannabis-use-as-a-substitute-for-opioid-and-non-opioid-based-pain-medication), or stop using opioids entirely.\r\n\r\n* Enlist the support of medical cannabis professionals who can help create programs to introduce cannabis as a workplace treatment for chronic pain—and protocols to safely get employees off opioids and back to work.  \r\n\r\nCannabis offers a way out of the opioid epidemic at work—and with the help of medical cannabis experts and solid research, the cannabis alternative can help companies of all kinds reduce the workplace costs of runaway opioid use. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Joshua Ness](https://unsplash.com/@theexplorerdad)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's private, easy and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAOABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAQX/xAAUAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAFFmIOkSh//xAAZEAACAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAgMREgH/2gAIAQEAAQUClvUDXGZFXHbP/8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAwEBPwE//8QAFBEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEP/aAAgBAgEBPwE//8QAGRABAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAQEVFx/9oACAEBAAY/AjE42u2v/8QAGRABAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARIUEx/9oACAEBAAE/ISkCkfL0G2V42zZ9ORq//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCDD//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQMBAT8QP//EABQRAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABD/2gAIAQIBAT8QP//EABoQAQEBAAMBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERACFBgZH/2gAIAQEAAT8QiFRULnguQXd04hPqZSr8jAKU3//Z","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/14b42/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg","srcSet":"/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/f836f/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg 200w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/2244e/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg 400w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/14b42/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg 800w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/47498/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg 1200w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/0e329/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg 1600w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/727f7/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.jpg 2491w","srcWebp":"/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/58556/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/61e93/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp 200w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/1f5c5/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp 400w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/58556/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp 800w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/99238/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp 1200w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/7c22d/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp 1600w,\n/static/9a2f986d5ce464ffcc933db7c38a498a/a510a/af502b968264bd94c8af0bb390401dcb.webp 2491w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2604-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Relieves Pain Better Than Opioids Do","slug":"how-cannabis-relieves-pain-better-than-opioids-do","content":"Pain is a universal reality that we all have to deal with in some form or another. While pain may strike on occasion for some—such as the random headache or pulled muscle, for many of us, pain is a daily chronic situation. In fact, according to the National Institute of Health, [pain affects more Americans than diabetes, heart disease and cancer combined](https://report.nih.gov/nihfactsheets/ViewFactSheet.aspx?csid=57). Pain is a leading cause of disability, and the most common reason Americans go to the doctor.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nUnfortunately, many with chronic pain turn to dangerous prescription painkillers like opiates. While pain is a huge problem that can leave a patient unable to lead a normal life, the painkillers themselves might be even worse. [Opiates alone kill over 33,000 each year](https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/data/statedeaths.html), and the rates are only increasing.\n\nYou may think over-the-counter painkillers like non-steroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are a safer choice, but estimates for [deaths from NSAIDs hover over 15,000 a year](http://americannutritionassociation.org/newsletter/deadly-nsaids), and hospitalization for complications caused by NSAIDS (like GI bleeding or liver damage) are in the 100,000 range. \n\nIn this article, part of our series geared towards folks new to cannabis, we get into how cannabis may be a safer and better option for chronic pain patients. Many report significant pain relief from cannabis, and [in states that allow medical cannabis, deaths from opiate overdoses have gone down by 25%](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25154332).\n\n### Ella’s Success Using Cannabis to Ease Her Pain\n\nElla is one patient whose relied heavily on cannabis’s pain-relieving abilities to get her through the day. Ella has a genetic condition called [thalassemia](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thalassemia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354995). This inherited blood disorder is characterized by a deficiency in red blood cells and hemoglobin. In severe cases like Ella’s, regular blood transfusions are required as treatment.\n\nElla has been having blood transfusions every few weeks since she was one month old. In addition, this challenging condition has caused Ella problems like liver enlargement, bone inflammation and congestive heart failure. These issues along with the many surgeries and painful procedures Ella has gone through have left her in need of some serious pain management. \n\n“The cannabis just helps me so much with the pain and the surgeries,” says Ella, adding that her mother had first suggested cannabis five years ago as an alternative to the Percocet and Vicodin that she was taking. These prescription painkillers were not only addictive, but they were compounding her liver problems, causing her liver to double in size. \n\nThankfully, cannabis provided Ella a safer alternative. “Because I was taking cannabis for my pain, my liver was able to shrink down to normal size.” she explains, saying that anyone with her condition should try out cannabis. “I recommend it, because it's not a narcotic that can damage your organs, and it's just a wonderful medicine.”\n\n### Becky’s Success Overcoming Her Pain With Marijuana\n\nBecky is another patient who uses cannabis for pain relief. The 42-year-old uses cannabis for a connective tissue disorder that affects her eyes, heart, muscular system and skeletal system. This condition leaves Becky with a lot of daily chronic pain. That pain can really get in the way of her work as a hairstylist. While some doctors suggested she get into a new line of work, Becky is passionate about what she does and wanted to continue.\n\n“I had to figure out ways to make myself feel better and still be able to function.” she says, sharing a long line of medications she experimented with before making her way to medical cannabis.\n\nBecky tried everything from Tylenol and OxyContin to muscle relaxers, but nothing seemed to help. Then she thought back to times she had used cannabis recreationally. “I realized that any time I smoked cannabis, it was because I was struggling with physical pain or with something emotional. It always helped.” \n\nWith approval from her doctor, Becky began to use cannabis medicinally, and it has transformed her life. “I truly, deeply feel like if I didn't have cannabis in my life, I wouldn't be the same person I am now.” she says. “I might not even be here.” \n\nStill, Becky says she had to do some work to find the right kinds of cannabis for her. “Not everything affects me the same way it affects everybody else,” she explains. “There are some indicas that make me really 'go go go.' There are some that caused me massive anxiety. There are some sativas that make me sleepy. I had to figure that all out.” \n\nHaving finally worked out what her best cannabis options are, Becky’s now well enough to continue her work in the hair salon. She has become a vocal advocate of cannabis, telling all of her clients about the wonders it has worked in her life. \n\n### Many Are Finding Pain Relief With Cannabis \n\nBecky and Ella aren’t the only ones using cannabis for pain. In one study, [97% of medical marijuana patients said they use the plant primarily for chronic pain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3998228/).\n\nThe science supports these patient’s claims that cannabis is a potent painkiller. In fact, in a study by UC Berkeley and HelloMD, [81% of patients reported that cannabis alone was more effective at relieving their pain than opioids were](http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2017.0012), with similar results reported for patients using non-opioid painkillers.\n\nCannabis helps treat pain by sending cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to stimulate the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system is the body’s natural pain reliever. When stimulated, pain relief is quick and potent, but without the numbing and desensitized feelings that can come with traditional painkillers. \n\nIf you suffer from chronic pain and think cannabis might be right for you, the best first step is to talk to a doctor. You can [consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online. Whether you have a medical marijuana card or live in a state where you can purchase through recreational means, you’ll want to start exploring which strains and methods of using cannabis are best for you.\n\nStay tuned for our next installment of the Cannabis for Newbies guide, where we’ll delve into how cannabis can help manage stress.\n\nPhoto credit: [Nick Karvounis](https://unsplash.com/@nickkarvounis)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/14b42/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg","srcSet":"/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/f836f/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg 200w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/2244e/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg 400w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/14b42/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg 800w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/47498/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg 1200w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/0e329/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg 1600w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/bea71/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.jpg 3641w","srcWebp":"/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/58556/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/61e93/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp 200w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/1f5c5/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp 400w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/58556/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp 800w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/99238/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp 1200w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/7c22d/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp 1600w,\n/static/71c57f9c49583e77de2394807485209e/79ff7/799f831c02e97ecbc0aadeda07ebbd75.webp 3641w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2577-markdown","title":"Using Cannabis to Relieve the Pain of Hemorrhoids","slug":"using-cannabis-to-relieve-the-pain-of-hemorrhoids","content":"Let’s be honest: Hemorrhoids are embarrassing and uncomfortable. Many hemorrhoid sufferers don’t want to discuss it, even if they’re in pain. \r\n\r\nBut the truth is, hemorrhoids are extremely common and treatable. [Three out of four Americans](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268), men and women, will deal with hemorrhoids at some point in their life. And while all hemorrhoids are unpleasant, most people experience no complications during treatment. But for those extreme cases involving intense pain, out-patient surgery and weeks of healing, cannabis can be an effective treatment before and after surgery. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### What Are Hemorrhoids?\r\n\r\nSimply put, hemorrhoids are swollen or bulging veins in the anus. Think a varicose vein, but in an extremely sensitive and active part of the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, [hemorrhoids can be caused by many factors](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268) including:\r\n\r\n* Pregnancy\r\n* Straining during bowel movements\r\n* Sitting for a long time\r\n* Obesity\r\n* Chronic diarrhea \r\n* Persistent constipation\r\n* Anal intercourse\r\n* Low-fiber diet\r\n\r\nThere are three distinct types of hemorrhoids, each with varying degrees of pain and discomfort.\r\n\r\n### Different Types of Hemorrhoids\r\n\r\n**Internal:** Internal hemorrhoids are found inside the rectum. These are usually the mildest type of hemorrhoid, typically not causing much discomfort. But occasionally, an internal hemorrhoid can undergo straining or irritation, which can lead to bleeding. In the most extreme cases, straining can cause internal hemorrhoids to protrude out of the anus. If this happens, there can be a lot of pain and discomfort.\r\n\r\n**External:** External hemorrhoids are found under the skin around the anus and can generally be seen and felt. These can be pretty painful and extremely sensitive to the touch, which can make it hard to sit, walk and go to the bathroom. External hemorrhoids are often treated with some sort of topical pain treatment. \r\n\r\n**Thrombosed:** If there’s one type of hemorrhoid you want to avoid, it’s a thrombosed one. These occur when an external hemorrhoid forms a blood clot. They often become swollen, hard, turn purple or blue and run the risk of bursting. A doctor should examine thrombosed hemorrhoids as soon as possible to determine the best path forward. Sometimes, in minor cases, patients may just have to wait it out. In more extreme cases, it may need to be removed by the doctor in an out-patient surgery.\r\n\r\n### Can Cannabis Help Relieve Hemorrhoid Pain & Inflammation?\r\n\r\nWe spoke with HelloMD’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Perry Solomon, about hemorrhoids and how their symptoms can be managed with cannabis. Dr. Solomon noted that while he’s never heard of any medical research on cannabis as a hemorrhoid treatment, he does say marijuana can be part of an effective regimen for dealing with the pain and inflammation that often come with hemorrhoids. \r\n\r\nBut what type of cannabis product would be best for managing hemorrhoid-related symptoms?\r\n\r\n“If you’re using [cannabis] for pain relief,” says Dr. Solomon, “I would suggest a tincture. The reason being that smoking or vaping could result in coughing, which could make the hemorrhoid larger and more painful. I might also try a topical placed on the hemorrhoid itself, which might help with the itching.”\r\n\r\nBecause of its highly effective anti-inflammatory properties, cannabis applied directly on the hemorrhoid could help alleviate some of the swelling, itching and pain. Taking a tincture, especially one tailored for pain relief, can help relax the body and alleviate the painful aspects of hemorrhoids. For less extreme cases, marijuana suppositories for hemorrhoids could be enough to help treat any associated discomfort. \r\n\r\n### Traditional Hemorrhoid Pain Relief\r\n\r\nWhen dealing with more extreme hemorrhoids, doctors may suggest a quick out-patient surgery in which the doctor removes the hemorrhoid. They typically do the out-patient surgery in an exam room with local anesthetic; this can be extremely painful. \r\n\r\nUnfortunately, opioid painkillers aren’t only highly addictive, but they can also cause constipation, which can exacerbate the hemorrhoid issue. As a result, many doctors forego writing painkiller prescriptions and opt to give patients a high dose of Tylenol instead.   \r\n\r\nHigh-dose Tylenol doesn’t always provide enough relief to patients who’ve just had a hemorrhoid removed. This is where cannabis can step in to provide an added boost of anti-itch and anti-inflammatory pain relief.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHY MY SURGICAL PATIENTS PREFER CANNABIS OVER OPIOIDS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58b4d1f8afae7a000f75a4ba/why-my-surgical-patients-prefer-cannabis-over-opioids)\r\n\r\n### Allison’s Success Using Cannabis to Relieve Her Hemorrhoid Pain\r\n\r\nWe also sat down to speak with someone who has firsthand experience using cannabis to battle intense hemorrhoid pain. Allison, in her mid-40s, is a working mother with a long history of dealing with hemorrhoids. Unfortunately for her, these often end up external and thrombosed, two of the most painful types. \r\n\r\nAllison has undergone multiple out-patient hemorrhoid removals and describes the process as “almost barbaric.” She explains that the local anesthetic did little to stop the pain of the removal and an extra strength Tylenol didn’t do much for her either. Because hemorrhoids are in such a delicate area, the healing process can be hard. The anus must continue to be used, wiped and stretched—all things that can reopen wounds and complicate healing. \r\n\r\nDuring a particularly challenging external thrombosed hemorrhoid, Allison’s friend suggested using cannabis in the days leading up to and following its removal. Her friend, who Allison lovingly refers to as her “cannabis angel,” dropped off some cannabidiol (CBD) salve. \r\n\r\nAfter consulting with her doctor about applying it directly to the site of the hemorrhoid, she began using the topical a couple days before her surgery to help manage the pain. She was stunned by how effective it was, so she kept using it during her recovery.   \r\n\r\nAfter her surgery, Allison continued to apply the CBD salve directly to the affected area. Its anti-inflammatory properties helped alleviate pain better than any other treatment she used in her 20 years of dealing with hemorrhoids. Allison also used her [Dosist Calm CBD pen](https://www.hellomd.com/products/58068e8323698800071d25a7/calm), which she’d historically used to help her sleep, to calm her nerves after surgery. Because she doesn’t like the psychoactive effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD vape pens and topicals were the perfect options for her. \r\n\r\nAllison was so shocked by the effectiveness of cannabis in treating the pain of hemorrhoids that she had to tell her doctor about it. She encouraged her doctor to suggest CBD for anyone dealing with hemorrhoid pain and swelling. \r\n\r\nIf you’re reading this and currently suffering from hemorrhoids, cannabis could be the key to ending the pain and swelling. Consult with your doctor about using a CBD topical to alleviate inflammation and a tincture or vape pen to help numb the pain. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [ANMOL](https://unsplash.com/@estd97)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAABQAAAAPCAIAAABr+ngCAAAACXBIWXMAAAsTAAALEwEAmpwYAAAC/UlEQVQozzVSa1PaQBTN7yjmvQkkBEggCRACEoQAgspLo8BQbCM+atFRq7ZqOx07/dCZ/jNtraU+ULEfOv0dvep0cmZnc2bvOWfvXuzk5PTsx/nw7u5mdH9zN4L1cngzuLi8vf99cXV9dXN7/+fv4PLq2/ez69vRcHR/cTUcDH6dnp6e/xxgBEEKgl+LJ4rVRqXZzVcajrtWnu/MuWut1f7z/k53c2/r+Eu3v12oOwu9V+7WfrO3ni3N6IaJsSwniH6GZgFRM21Y2WSuUKg51XZ3effQ3X67tHPg7h6tH31y3BVzws6WpqfmWsWqE1IimKyERdFvpMbL9blyw2ktr/e29pzFXqE6W55rzix0SnWn1u6amZxmmOXZVnKigDivHNYS6cxDsV0q1Zrt/rtDd2MbUrUW3aXV1dl2Jz9dcbqulUx4eU70SwzLUTSbsGzdTOM44Q8EMUEQo3FDCau6rsty2Eoa227z/ebSy4WaZRqyrGgRleUFgmRoBnnGCJygtHjSSGUjMQMLBeGTtUhY4rmIgJrF9Mf+YqeSb+RSrak8RZCI5YpG2IeQBydJkh7DSSkgpzK2PVXHUmmrVKnUW+3qVDEREmYns8c7K2967eVG8UWjXCtYqsjnVImmafCESvC37JIeN6PGOBaSFStnZ3K2FVd1OTiZNjvV4ofX3a+HG58PNveX5p2MCqHGCMrjwZ95cIblpaAcN8d5n4CJ/mBE08OqlskXJ2dmfAwjeXnbjNZz6YyuGCKiCUJRNTM9AQVBJeKXgvBIES1GkDT21ENVi8oKMAbLIoaiKZKE23IUxTIPfYKmQEdjiWQqkwWJlJXVYybvFWDCKIZBAJgWr1cAYRqOI0RSDFySBZbnA0HZJ8A0BAQxAEnBj6RYAIbjJAAykI8APUGQQIXjvDiwNAvzhxAHg0EzEIUBM1hBGpqHPfUQACwAWKj3+kSwfFCkGMgOvyAHJ8ET9pAM9vDmGMUgAP0f4AAnWMTDIYR4YDjeB3IA7lHUL4WAear6ByhR6uY2IVnjAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/ee604/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.png","srcSet":"/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/69585/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.png 200w,\n/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/497c6/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.png 400w,\n/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/ee604/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.png 800w,\n/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/a384c/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.png 1090w","srcWebp":"/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/58556/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/61e93/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.webp 200w,\n/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/1f5c5/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.webp 400w,\n/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/58556/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.webp 800w,\n/static/870ee6b8cba71089a03c590f3f8ad578/8820a/b2260a74cef3017245da8da807a51d65.webp 1090w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2566-markdown","title":"Opioids Take a Toll on the Workplace—Can Cannabis Help? ","slug":"opioids-take-a-toll-on-the-workplacecan-cannabis-help","content":"More than $78 billion a year—that’s how much The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate the economic burden of prescription opioid use and misuse to be. That figure includes not only costs to society, but also costs to the workplace. Lost productivity, health-care expenses, workers’ compensation claims and on-the-job risks are among the opioid-related issues facing employers everywhere. \r\n\r\nA number of strategies have been proposed to combat the problem of opioid use in the workplace, but these plans fail to offer an alternative solution for managing pain. Safer and more effective than opioids, cannabis can provide that alternative, with benefits for employee health and a company’s bottom line.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### What Are Opioids?\r\n\r\n[Opioid pain medications](https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2014/01/5-surprising-things-you-need-to-know-about-prescription-painkillers/index.htm) such as Vicodin and OxyContin belong to a class of powerful painkillers that includes heroin and morphine. These medications block pain signals in the brain, but they also depress the central nervous system, causing breathing and heart rate to slow. When a person takes too many opioids, or combines them with other sedatives or alcohol, those automatic functions can be depressed to the point of death.  \r\n\r\nThe CDC warns that [opioids are intended only for short-term use](https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/opioid-overdose-crisis) to relieve acute pain from injuries or surgery. After only a few days of use, opioids can become addictive. But a majority of doctors who prescribe opioids do so for longer than 60 days—even though these medications aren’t very effective for chronic pain. All of these factors combine to raise the risk of misuse, addiction, and harm to self and surroundings.\r\n\r\n### Opioids in the Workplace Raise Risks & Costs\r\n\r\nOpioid use can negatively affect the workplace in a number of ways. A worker might be using opioid medications prescribed for something unrelated to the workplace, such as an off-time injury or pain from a chronic condition. But if that employee is overusing the medications, or has become addicted to them, work performance and productivity can suffer.  \r\n\r\nPrescribing information for opioid drugs typically warns against operating machinery or other activities requiring precision and concentration until users know how the medication will affect them. Opioid users in jobs requiring these kinds of tasks can cause serious workplace accidents, or errors that create a cascading series of problems.  \r\n\r\nPeople who misuse opioids may also miss work more often, leaving essential tasks undone or forcing others to take on their workload. Opioids can also cause a long list of secondary health problems including constipation, depression, and a heightened risk of bone fracture, all of which can lead to more sick days and difficulty performing job duties.\r\n\r\nBut many people who end up misusing or becoming addicted to opioids do so because of a workplace injury that leads to a prescription for at least one opioid drug for pain, typically for 60 days or more. When long-term use of opioids is involved, the [cost of workers’ compensation claims can skyrocket](https://www.claimsjournal.com/news/national/2017/12/07/281919.htm).\r\n\r\nAccording to a 2012 study, workers who received even one opioid medication for a workplace injury had [claims costs that were four to eight times higher](http://www.lockton.com/whitepapers/Opioids_Wreak_Havoc_on_Workers_Compensation_Costs.pdf) than claims incurred by workers who didn’t take opioids. Meanwhile, the Workers Compensation Research Institute found that the cost of time lost for workers using opioids averaged $117,0000—roughly 900% higher than the cost of time taken off by workers who didn’t take opioids.\r\n\r\nAdditional research reveals that workers taking opioids for more than 90 days aren’t likely to go back to work, both because of dependence on the drugs and the side effects and secondary diseases related to using them.   \r\n\r\n### Proposed Strategies to Combat Opioids in the Workplace Miss the Point\r\n\r\nTo reduce harm to the workplace and reduce costs related to workers’ compensation and insurance claims, employers in several industries are working with insurers and claims managers to [find ways to limit the prescribing of opioids in workplace injury cases](http://www.constructionexec.com/article/a-prescription-for-reducing-workers-comp-costs), and reduce problems caused by opioid use on the job. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [HOW CANNABIS CAN BREAK THE CYCLE OF OPIOID ABUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a14b5edeea891000897e26c/how-cannabis-can-break-the-cycle-of-opioid-abuse)\r\n\r\nSuggested strategies include:\r\n\r\n* Working closely with doctors to monitor opioid prescriptions \r\n* Instituting drug reviews and educating claims managers on red flags for opioid misuse \r\n* Instituting random drug testing \r\n* Encouraging doctors to recommend other solutions for managing pain, such as non-opioid pain relievers, physical therapy or acupuncture \r\n\r\nConspicuously absent from these solutions, though, is cannabis—a demonstrably safe and effective approach to managing chronic pain without the risks associated with opioid drugs.\r\n\r\n### Cannabis: An Effective Solution for Chronic Pain\r\n\r\nResearch reveals that a majority of participants who used cannabis were able to reduce their use of prescription opioids—or stop using them altogether. Because cannabis affects the body in ways that are very different from opioids, a cannabis protocol can ease pain without the risk of addiction and withdrawal, or death from overdose. When used as an alternative to opioids for managing chronic pain, cannabis can restore lost productivity, reduce employer costs—and save lives.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Bradley Wentzel](https://unsplash.com/@bradleywentzel)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/14b42/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/f836f/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg 200w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/2244e/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg 400w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/14b42/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg 800w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/47498/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/0e329/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/85195/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.jpg 2700w","srcWebp":"/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/58556/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/61e93/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp 200w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/1f5c5/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp 400w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/58556/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp 800w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/99238/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp 1200w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/7c22d/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp 1600w,\n/static/d44d7312ba8b4af5569eae4d6a48dff1/a9f42/be27e6203dd840a0413b1b2b16bccb16.webp 2700w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2547-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Arthritis Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-arthritis-answered","content":"Arthritis is a fairly common condition in which inflammation of the joints causes pain, stiffness and trouble moving. Because cannabis exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, some arthritis sufferers anecdotally say that the plant has helped with their condition. Cannabis also causes fewer side effects than traditional treatments do—mainly nonsteroidal drugs that can also cause ulcers, stomach pain and diarrhea.\n\nWe’ve compiled our most popular questions about how marijuana can be an effective treatment for arthritis pain. We hope you find this information useful if you or someone you know is thinking about treating arthritis with cannabis. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: I have severe rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. What solution is best to relieve my chronic pain?\n\nAnswer: [@dredmunds](https://www.hellomd.com/people/5695961d38c92e000a00006e/dredmunds) Cannabis may be useful in the treatment of both rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and fibromyalgia. Cannabis has both immune-modulating properties and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to analgesic effects. Because both RA and fibromyalgia are systemic illnesses, most patients administer either vaporized or ingested cannabis. Strains or products with a higher CBD/THC ratio have been effective in alleviating chronic pain while lessening psychoactive effects of the medicine.\n\nAlso, for musculoskeletal discomfort in general, many patients have found topical salves to be beneficial in treating localized joint or muscle pain. One benefit of this approach is that most, if not all, of the cannabis does not enter the blood stream, so there are no systemic effects; therefore, topicals can be used comfortably during the day as well as the night.\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS SOOTHES ARTHRITIS PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5822789665e8fd000cc74ebc/cannabis-soothes-arthritis-pain)\n\n### Q: My husband has severe arthritis in his hand. Cannabis oil has been recommended, what is best?\n\nAnswer: [@andrewvanmd](https://www.hellomd.com/people/55d3990c32326600062d0000/andrewvanmd) Cannabis can be utilized in a number of ways for arthritis relief. You may want to start with topical creams applied directly to the arthritic areas. Tinctures of a whole plant cannabis preparation with CBD and THC can be applied under the tongue and should take effect within 20 minutes. Inhaled cannabis will provide more immediate relief. Try a variety of methods and see what works best for you.\n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/584ba0c500234a000ca73426/husband-has-severe-arthritis-in-hand-cannabis-oil-has-been-recommended-what-is-best).\n\n### Q: Would you recommend Sweet ReLeaf topical for arthritis pain or migraines? \n\nAnswer: [@ryan](https://www.hellomd.com/people/56e9a5ccccdf36000b000029/ryan) I have used many topicals and Sweet ReLeaf is consistently one of my favorites! From my observations, they also have the strongest formula for the price. I always keep one at my desk for wrist pain and find it very effective at reducing my pain and swelling if things flare up. I would highly recommend Sweet ReLeaf for your wrist pain.\n\n[Read more answers to this question](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/57fbfa0cd805a30009a9f9a3/would-you-recommend-this-product-for-arthritis-pain-or-migraines).\n\nPhoto credit: [Ant Rozetsky](https://unsplash.com/@rozetsky)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQFBv/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEA/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAGZQSVLTGWE/8QAGxAAAwACAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIDAAQQEjL/2gAIAQEAAQUCn6egGahRomiqvduP/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARD/2gAIAQMBAT8BJ//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEf/aAAgBAgEBPwGxj//EABwQAAMAAQUAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESECAxAxYf/aAAgBAQAGPwJJEyXVLck21PTvj//EABoQAQADAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESFBMWH/2gAIAQEAAT8h039UlILLhnZ0QqPInun2KhB7Kvs//9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCH3//EABYRAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEf/aAAgBAwEBPxBlCn//xAAWEQADAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABEBH/2gAIAQIBAT8QJU//xAAdEAEBAAICAwEAAAAAAAAAAAABEQBBMZEhUXGB/9oACAEBAAE/ELaLdsfM0/NKuArXFIKvHU7x/nLPK/uArQRjr1c3EZ//2Q==","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/14b42/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/f836f/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg 200w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/2244e/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg 400w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/14b42/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg 800w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/47498/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/0e329/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg 1600w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/77d93/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.jpg 3600w","srcWebp":"/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/58556/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/61e93/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp 200w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/1f5c5/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp 400w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/58556/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp 800w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/99238/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp 1200w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/7c22d/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp 1600w,\n/static/d14de25a44878e520617007338c69fca/d4378/fd4b614b7aa5db0667603cd195957ac8.webp 3600w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2546-markdown","title":"Using Cannabis-Infused Topicals for Localized Relief","slug":"using-cannabis-infused-topicals-for-localized-relief","content":"In our series for cannabis newcomers, we’ve looked at the many ways patients can take their cannabis—from smoking and vaping to consuming edibles and sublinguals. In this article, we take a look at how cannabis can be applied topically. This often underrated method of using cannabis is quite powerful at easing pain, tension and inflammation. Cannabis-infused topicals have helped patients with a variety of issues from relieving skin conditions to arthritis and muscle pain.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Are Cannabis-Infused Topicals?\n\nCannabis-infused topicals come in a wide variety of forms, including oils, creams, lotions, balms, mud masks and more—all infused with potent cannabinoids. These topical options are designed to be applied directly to the skin, treating the specific area where it was administered. Because topicals don’t enter the bloodstream the way smoking, vaping or eating cannabis do, they don’t typically have any psychoactive effects.\n\nThat said, I did meet one patient who was so incredibly sensitive to cannabis that she reported feeling high after using a large amount of marijuana-infused topical all over her body. For the vast majority of patients, the effects of topicals don’t cause any change to your overall state—just relief in the area where you used it. \n\nAs a precaution, however, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the marijuana-infused topical. Exposure to your mouth or eyes—by rubbing them with your cannabis-laden hands—could lead to [accidental ingestion and an unwanted high](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/574b679b982db9000a000055/do-cannabis-topicals-pass-the-drug-test).\n\nRELATED: [THC IN CANNABIS TOPICALS: WHY IT MATTERS](https://hellomd.com/articles/thc-in-cannabis-topicals-why-it-matters)\n\n### Why Do Patients Use Marijuana-Infused Topicals?\n\nPatients use topicals for a variety of reasons. If you’re sensitive to the effects of medical marijuana and find that you’re unable to function as well after ingesting it, topicals can make a great alternative to all of the other methods of administration.\n\nThe fact that [cannabis-infused topicals don’t affect you systemically also means that they don’t show up on drug tests](https://hellomd.com/articles/do-cannabis-topicals-pass-the-drug-test). So for patients in careers or other contexts where marijuana drug testing is prevalent, topicals are often the only viable method of using this powerful medicine. \n\nMany patients use topicals for everyday aches and pains such as sore, tense or injured muscles. Powerful cannabinoids seep into the skin, helping ease tension while providing localized pain relief.\n\nThe plant’s anti-inflammatory effects also help reduce pain and inflammation at the site of any sprained, pulled or injured muscle. Much like regular application of ice helps speed up healing by reducing inflammation, cannabis-infused topicals also bring down inflammation, helping speed the recovery process.\n\n[Another popular use for marijuana-infused topicals is to apply it to arthritic joints](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-soothes-arthritis-pain). Arthritis can make everyday tasks very painful and sometimes even impossible. Thankfully, cannabis-infused topicals can help arthritis sufferers by providing direct pain relief to the areas where they need it most.\n\nIn addition, topicals may actually help reduce or even reverse arthritis. A Canadian study, currently underway, is looking at [how cannabis’s anti-inflammatory powers may be able to actually heal the damage caused by arthritis](http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/dalhousie-researcher-investigates-use-of-marijuana-for-arthritis-pain-1.3142592), reversing the condition itself, rather than just offering relief from its symptoms. Scientists working on the study believe that by saturating the CB2 receptors in the affected arthritic area, joints may actually be repaired.\n\nArthritis patients who use cannabis-infused topicals regularly often report finding mild pain relief at first, but with regular use, their overall pain gradually reduces over time. If you suffer from arthritis, marijuana-infused topicals may be a great option to try out. \n\nPatients also use [cannabis-infused topicals for a variety of skin conditions](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/the-3-most-common-skin-conditions-can-cannabis-help). Cannabis is chock full of powerful anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal and pain-relieving properties. This potent mix makes cannabis-infused topicals incredibly helpful in treating a wide range of skin maladies such as eczema, psoriasis, acne and rosacea. With regular application of cannabis-infused topicals, many patients report that these conditions begin to subside. \n\n### How to Use Cannabis-Infused Topicals\n\nThe basics of using marijuana-infused topicals are simple. Apply the topical to your skin, at the site of your pain or irritation. This usually involves rubbing the topical in until it has been absorbed into your skin. Of course, usage can vary by product, so always be sure to read the instructions.\n\nYou should feel some pain-relieving effects within minutes of applying the topical, but may also find that regular application increases these effects and gradually improves the underlying condition. To get started with cannabis-infused topicals,  or [learn how to make your own topical](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/diy-recipe-marijuana-infused-topical-for-pain-relief). \n\nWhen it comes to marijuana-infused topicals, the options are plentiful. Before you hone in on a particular topical, find out what types of oils were used to make the topical along with what other scents or ingredients were added. Think about what works for you. Is there a non-cannabis moisturizer or balm that you already use and like? You may be able to find something similar but infused with cannabis.\n\nFor example, I have sensitive skin and am allergic to many scents so I only use topicals that are made with non-pore-clogging oils like mango or shea butter, and I avoid any topical products that have added scents. Still, others may like something heavier like coconut oil, for higher levels of moisture. Meanwhile, many prefer scents in their cannabis-infused topical to mask any skunky odor. Thinking about your preferences ahead of time can help you ensure the product you’re purchasing will be something you can use. \n\nIn the next installment of the Cannabis for Newbies guide, we’ll move from talking about the many ways of using cannabis to going over the many different types of cannabis. There are so many strains—aka genetic varieties—of cannabis that it can be hard to know which one to try. We’ll give you the basics you need to know to understand what strains are and how to find the right one for you. \n\nPhoto credit: [Jesper Aggergaard](https://unsplash.com/@aggergakker)\n\nNeed a medical marijuana recommendation? [Consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://hellomd.com/); it's 100% online, private and easy. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/14b42/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/f836f/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg 200w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/2244e/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg 400w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/14b42/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg 800w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/47498/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg 1200w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/0e329/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg 1600w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/8c6ae/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.jpg 3645w","srcWebp":"/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/58556/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/61e93/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp 200w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/1f5c5/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp 400w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/58556/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp 800w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/99238/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp 1200w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/7c22d/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp 1600w,\n/static/24e0071e5cfbd7acd13f97feef29d088/29f9d/c070a3c05e6abd3667158b321e8ba7b9.webp 3645w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2578-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Back Pain Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-back-pain-answered","content":"If you suffer from back pain, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 80% of Americans endure back pain of some kind. Doctors mostly prescribe opioids or other powerful pain-relieving medications, which can help, but often just mask the problem and can come with their own set of serious side effects. \n\nCannabis has proven to be an effective way to treat back pain for some. And with so many treatment options—topicals, tinctures, vape pens—people can find a protocol that fits their lifestyle.\n\nHere are our most popular Q&As about treating back pain with marijuana, with answers provided by doctors and cannabis professionals. As always, head over to our [Answers](www.hellomd.com/answers) if you have a question about medical marijuana for back pain, and our community will be happy to answer it for you.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: What do you recommend for back pain caused by a bulging disc incurred in an accident?\n\nAnswer: [@drraisen](https://www.hellomd.com/people/564e05ec3618f90008000088/drraisen) Take one dose a day of a CBD-only-tincture as a first-line therapy for the back pain.\n\n* See the article: https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/578da024fdc17e000700019d/micro-dosing-cannabis-stopped-my-chronic-pain \n* For more pain-relief, add a tincture of CBD/THC that is 50%/50% concentration.\n* For additional pain relief, use a vape pen with Canna Tsu, ACDC or Harlequin. These strains contain around 20% CBD. \n* Use topical cannabis in a lotion or cream to treat to areas of pain and inflammation, one to three times a day as needed; they can give you immediate relief.\n\nConsider nutrition-grade cannabis-infused edibles in 10mg THC dose for extended-duration pain relief as an alternative to NSAIDs and opiates. You can try a 20mg THC dose to promote sleep.\n\nThe edibles, will last a long time. REMEMBER, WITH ALL THE CANNABIS, START LOW, AND GO SLOW. \n\nBest of luck.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyrq11rNcL4`\n\n### Q: I suffer from upper cervical nerve/back pain. What product do you recommended? \n\nAnswer: [@drolson](https://www.hellomd.com/people/550c5a786336370003010000/drolson/questions/) The best cannabis treatment for neck and back pain from nerve inflammation would be a topical cannabis salve applied along the spine, frequently at first because it will block the nerve pain. \n\nIn a tie for first place I also include posture. Your body can't call you on the phone to scream at you, \"Stop pinching the nerves!\" So, it screams at you internally, but most people cover up the screaming with drugs, and that's when damage occurs. \n\nLearn to listen to your body and lift your spine up. It takes practice to learn to lift your spine and to build the strength in the supporting muscles, so I advise practicing yoga to learn body awareness and posture with core strengthening. \n\nMedications can give you relief, but please don't just treat the pain and not correct the posture. Adequate water intake and vitamin D3 are also necessary to keep the spine healthy. Vaporizing high-CBD cannabis is very effective in relieving pain, also.\n\nRELATED: [BACK PAIN, CANNABIS & DEHYDRATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57361295d8405a000c00003e/back-pain-cannabis-and-dehydration)\n\n### Q: What's the best product for back pain and muscle tightness?\n\nAnswer: [@lyp](https://www.hellomd.com/people/5507070036393300031b0000/lyp) Hi, we've got an article going over the best strains for back pain, which includes potent strains such as Headband, as well as higher CBD strains such as [ACDC](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57e1803d16ce30000b06ba0a/the-best-marijuana-strains-for-back-pain).\n\nYou may also want to consider a cannabis-infused topical to ease your pain. We've got a write-up going over the top 3 topicals for back pain: https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/589b56e47a547a0008f2c9ce/the-top-3-cannabis-topicals-for-back-pain though there are many more cannabis topicals on the market that you may find helpful. \n\nMy partner has a bulging disc in his lower back that he's been applying Farmaceuticals' High CBD balm on—and he's found pain relief with that particular product. Of course, it all depends on your biochemistry, whether a high-CBD topical is what you need. There are different ratios of CBD to THC available on the market, and you may need to experiment to see which is most effective for you. Hope this helps!\n\nPhoto credit: [Jairo Alzate](https://unsplash.com/photos/1CsfTx0DuLs)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/14b42/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/f836f/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/2244e/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 400w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/14b42/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 800w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/47498/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/0e329/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/b160c/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 2686w","srcWebp":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/58556/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/61e93/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/1f5c5/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 400w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/58556/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 800w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/99238/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 1200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/7c22d/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 1600w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/13bf9/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 2686w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2531-markdown","title":"5 Easy Ways to Treat Your Sports Injury","slug":"5-easy-ways-to-treat-your-sports-injury","content":"Sports injuries are extremely common. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, [2011–2014 saw an annual average of 8.6 million sports and recreation-related injuries in the United States](https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr099.pdf).\n\nSome of the most common sports injuries include:\n\n* ankle sprain\n* pulled groin\n* strained hamstring\n* shin splints\n* knee injuries\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nAlmost all musculoskeletal injuries have to do with two things: stretching a ligament too far (sprain) or overstretching/overusing muscle fibers (strain). The pain associated with these issues is often caused or exacerbated by inflammation, the body’s natural response to injury that repairs damaged tissue. While inflammation is a good thing for injury in the long run, it often causes a lot of pain in the short term and is associated with swelling, redness, warmth, pain and tightness.  \n\nThe majority of the time, these injuries are painful enough to derail us for a couple of days but aren’t quite serious enough to seek professional medical help. If you’re suffering from joint or muscle pain, you may want to avoid the co-pay and possible prescription, and instead opt for an at-home treatment. We rounded up a few ways you can treat a sports injury to help you recover quickly and effectively.\n\nKeep in mind that serious sports-related injuries deserve proper medical attention; if you aren’t sure whether an injury is serious, it’s best to err on the side of caution and head to your doctor. \n\n### Follow the RICE Method\n\nYou may have learned about the RICE method in a high school PE class or back when you were on the track team. Let’s take a trip down memory lane to recap all of the important steps this acronym stands for. \n\n* **Rest.** Stop whatever it is that caused the injury and rest up for the first 24–48 hours. If you restrict as much activity as possible on the injured area, you reduce the risk of further injury. \n\n* **Ice.** It’s important to ice an injury immediately to curb initial inflammation. It’s recommended that you have a layer between the ice and your skin (like a hand towel), icing for 20 minutes at a time every one to two hours for a day or two. \n\n* **Compression.** By compressing the injured area, you’ll be able to reduce swelling. Use an ace bandage to wrap the area, making sure you leave it just loose enough to allow proper circulation. \n\n* **Elevation.** Elevating the injury is another way to reduce swelling. For best results, keep the area elevated above the heart, if possible. \n\n### Try a Cannabis Topical Cream \n\nTreating sports-related injuries really comes down to reducing inflammation and swelling. There are all sorts of prescription anti-inflammatory topicals, but [cannabis is an excellent, all-natural option that seems to be just as effective](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a3f31338323000062f0000/medical-marijuana-as-an-aid-against-inflammation). Marijuana is full of natural anti-inflammatory properties that help ease pain all throughout the body. \n\nYou can try:\n\n* a cannabis-infused mentholated salve for muscle relief\n* a marijuana-infused cream for all over aches.\n* a targeted cannabis pain patch for localized pain and mess-free application. \n\n### Take a Salt Bath\n\nEpsom salt is a tried and true remedy that people have sworn by for decades. Your great grandmother’s grandmother probably used this treatment, and it’s just as effective now as it was hundreds of years ago. When submerged in water, Epsom salt breaks down into magnesium and sulfate, two minerals with anti-inflammatory properties.\n\nSoaking in an Epsom salt bath every two days can help ease aching joints and muscles. If you really want to take your treatment to the next level, try making your own [cannabis-infused Epsom salt bath bomb](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59cd5092a6dac230b182c30c/diy-recipe-marijuana-bath-bomb). \n\n### Eat a Low-Inflammation Diet\n\nThere are all sorts of diet tricks you can use to help increase your chance of a speedy recovery. First thing’s first: Keep yourself hydrated, especially if you’re dealing with joint pain. The [cartilage between joints, which provides cushioning for the bones, is made up of 65–80% water](https://academic.oup.com/bmb/article/87/1/77/338508), and water is essential in delivering all of the nutrients needed to repair cartilage.\n\nAs for the rest of your diet, you’ll want to solve for one (predictable) thing: reducing inflammation that accompanies any injury. Eat foods high in magnesium, like cashews, cacao, molasses, leafy greens, parsnips and whole grains. Lay off acidic items like coffee, alcohol, dairy and wheat. Double down on your protein intake so you get the necessary amount of branch chain amino acids (BCAAs), which restore damaged muscles. \n\n### Commit to Consistent Stretching\n\nYou probably won’t want to stretch immediately following the injury, but after a few days of rest, it’s good to get the injured areas moving to get rid of any stiffness. Take it slow your first few days back to avoid further injury. If you’re feeling up to it, go to an all-levels yoga class and let your instructor know you’re dealing with an injury; they can give you modified poses to help stretch what you need. \n\nAnd while we’re on the subject, here’s an interesting fact: [Many believe proper stretching before a workout can prevent injury, but the CDC hasn’t been able to find any such evidence](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15076777).\n\nWhat’s the key to preventing injuries? An active warm-up that increases blood flow throughout the muscles. \n\nNow you know what to do the next time you twist an ankle or strain a muscle, and you can do it all from the comfort of your own home. \n\nPhoto Credit: [Martin Barak](https://unsplash.com/@fotobarak)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/14b42/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/f836f/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg 200w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/2244e/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg 400w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/14b42/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg 800w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/47498/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/0e329/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/15f9c/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.jpg 3611w","srcWebp":"/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/58556/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/61e93/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp 200w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/1f5c5/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp 400w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/58556/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp 800w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/99238/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp 1200w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/7c22d/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp 1600w,\n/static/4a81a201b886a3a62d1d6fd2abec6193/328de/2bc9279da8feafa09643a589699a1de4.webp 3611w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":12,"numPages":11,"currentPage":2,"id":5599,"name":"Pain","slug":"pain","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}