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We explored various causes of lower back pain as well as prevention techniques in our last blog, now let’s look further into management strategies. Managing pain in the lower back is crucial for many things, mental health included. Your ability to execute everyday activities comfortably, like bathing or lifting, might also be impacted. The lower back, also referred to as the lumbar region, is responsible for structural support, shock absorption, mobility, flexibility and so much more. It’s not surprising why so many patients seek medical or professional help to get their lower back pain treated.&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align: left" id="management-strategies-for-lower-back-pain">Management Strategies for Lower Back Pain</h2>Managing lower back pain requires a multifaceted approach. Acupuncture is a popular method that stimulates specific points in the body, potentially alleviating pain by rebalancing energy flow. This ancient practice is known in modern medicine for its analgesic effects. You could also consider managing your lower back pain with physiotherapy. It focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the spine and improving flexibility. A skilled physiotherapist can tailor exercises and stretches to address specific issues, promoting better posture and reducing the risk of recurrent pain.<img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://media.savikalpa.com/storage/v1/object/public/media/1749719883696_lower-back-pain-management-techniques.webp" alt="cmbt61jgz076fkzze435i03e9">Massages are another effective option, especially coupled with herbal infusion oils. Herbal infusion oils increase blood flow and decrease muscle tension. Hot fomentation, which involves the application of heat to relax muscles and reduce stiffness, is another effective management option. Chiropractic care, focussing on spinal manipulation to improve alignment, is a widely accepted treatment for lower back pain and can offer significant relief. For those who require medical intervention, medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants may be prescribed to manage pain and address underlying conditions, though they come with their own side effects and shortcomings.<img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://media.savikalpa.com/storage/v1/object/public/media/1740864779973_3_e86a0c05-14d1-4730-b50d-34d61067ce16_480x480.jpg?v=1717149400" alt="cm7qpxxax0007ulnwpcaq4euo"><h2 style="text-align: left" id="herbal-remedies-for-lower-back-pain">Herbal Remedies for Lower Back Pain</h2>You could also consider a few herbal remedies. Curcuma Longa (Turmeric), and specifically its active ingredient curcumin, has been widely studied for its anti-inflammatory effects, making it a valuable addition to any pain management formulation. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3309643/">Boswellia Serrata</a>, commonly known as Shallaki, contains boswellic acid and is a potent anti-inflammatory herb that can help reduce swelling and pain in the lower back. Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) with its active compound gingerol, offers both anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits. Guggul, derived from the Commiphora Mukul tree, contains guggulsterones, compounds known for their ability to lower inflammation and relieve pain. Finally, cannabis, and specifically cannabinoids - the unique compounds found in the cannabis plant - target multiple pathways in the body to provide both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.Cannabis has gained attention as a potential remedy for lower back pain due to its active compounds. These compounds interact with the body&apos;s endocannabinoid system, specifically targeting CB1 and CB2 receptors. By engaging these receptors, cannabinoids can offer dual benefits: pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. This dual action makes cannabis a compelling option for managing lower back pain.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="cannabinoid-medication-oral-vs-topical">Cannabinoid Medication: Oral vs. Topical</h2><img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://media.savikalpa.com/storage/v1/object/public/media/1740864781693_7_c728eb7b-1345-401c-9e73-dcb23c1dcc98_480x480.jpg?v=1717148961" alt="cm7qpxypv0008ulnwj3ru16y0">Oral cannabinoid medications are great for lower back pain, thanks to their unique mechanism of action through retrograde signalling. This process occurs when neurotransmitters released from post-synaptic neurons travel back to presynaptic neurons, where cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) bind to cannabinoid receptors, modulating neurotransmitter release. Oral cannabinoid medicines can effectively reduce the pain signals sent to the brain, providing relief to those suffering from lower back discomfort. Additionally, cannabidiol (CBD), which is one of the primary cannabinoids, has anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce anxiety often associated with chronic pain. This reduction in anxiety can lead to a decreased perception of pain, further benefiting anyone suffering from chronic lower back pain.Cannabis topicals, including oils, roll-ons, and gels, offer an alternative to oral formulations for managing lower back pain. These topicals interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin and can penetrate deeper through transdermal technology, providing localized relief. Both <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7023045/#:~:text=Therefore%2C%20it%20has%20been%20suggested,of%20immune%20cells%20%5B66%5D.">CBD and THC </a>exhibit powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making topicals a suitable choice for chronic illnesses such as arthritis and lumbago, where localized treatment is crucial. Because they target specific areas, cannabis topicals may be preferred for individuals seeking relief without the stronger psychotropic effects of oral medications. The flexibility in application and reduced risk of side effects make topical cannabinoid medications an attractive option for those looking to manage lower back pain through natural and targeted approaches.&nbsp;We offer both topical medication and oral medication to effectively manage lower back pain. If you or a loved one is considering oral medication, you can book a free consultation with our e-clinic for a prescription.&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align: left" id="a-case-for-natural-alternatives">A Case for Natural Alternatives</h2>Chronic lower back pain, often resistant to traditional treatments like NSAIDs and physiotherapy, has shown to respond better to emerging therapies that show promise in providing significant relief, even for long-term sufferers. A recent case study shows the impact of topical and oral cannabinoid medicine in managing this type of pain. Mr. Chopra, a 44-year-old man, had been struggling with lower back pain that radiated to his left leg for three years. Despite trying several pain management strategies, he found little relief until he began using topical CBD oil (Shunyata Relief). Within just seven days, he reported significant pain reduction, improved sleep, and less radiating pain. Encouraged by these results, he transitioned to a treatment plan that combined oral CBD oil with a topical application formulation, experiencing further improvement in his condition.Another case study sheds light on how cannabinoid medicine can be a valuable tool for more complex lower back pain conditions. Mr. Singh, a 41-year-old man diagnosed with a prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD), experienced chronic lower back pain radiating down his left leg, along with numbness and weakness. Conventional treatments were unable to alleviate his symptoms, which made daily activities challenging. Upon starting a combination of oral and topical cannabinoid medicine, Mr. Singh experienced a noticeable reduction in pain intensity. After a month, his allopathic medication was gradually weaned off without the need to increase the dosage of cannabinoid medicine. Cannabinoid-based treatments not only provide effective pain relief but also reduce dependency on traditional medications, offering a pathway to a better quality of life for those with chronic lower back pain.Explore natural remedies for back pain <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://shop.savikalpa.com/collections/shunyata">here</a>.Also Read:<ul class="list-disc mx-5"><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/understanding-lower-back-pain-causes-prevention-and-solutions">Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-chronic-pain">Cannabis for Chronic Pain</a> </li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-pain-relief">Using Cannabis for Pain Management</a></li></ul>

We explored various causes of lower back pain as well as prevention techniques in our last blog, now let’s look further into management strategies. Managing pain in the lower back is crucial for many things, mental health included. Your ability to execute everyday activities comfortably, like bathing or lifting, might also be impacted. The lower back, also referred to as the lumbar region, is responsible for structural support, shock absorption, mobility, flexibility and so much more. It’s not surprising why so many patients seek medical or professional help to get their lower back pain treated. 

Management Strategies for Lower Back Pain

Managing lower back pain requires a multifaceted approach. Acupuncture is a popular method that stimulates specific points in the body, potentially alleviating pain by rebalancing energy flow. This ancient practice is known in modern medicine for its analgesic effects. You could also consider managing your lower back pain with physiotherapy. It focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the spine and improving flexibility. A skilled physiotherapist can tailor exercises and stretches to address specific issues, promoting better posture and reducing the risk of recurrent pain.

Massages are another effective option, especially coupled with herbal infusion oils. Herbal infusion oils increase blood flow and decrease muscle tension. Hot fomentation, which involves the application of heat to relax muscles and reduce stiffness, is another effective management option. Chiropractic care, focussing on spinal manipulation to improve alignment, is a widely accepted treatment for lower back pain and can offer significant relief. For those who require medical intervention, medications like anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, and antidepressants may be prescribed to manage pain and address underlying conditions, though they come with their own side effects and shortcomings.

You could also consider a few herbal remedies. Curcuma Longa (Turmeric), and specifically its active ingredient curcumin, has been widely studied for its anti-inflammatory effects, making it a valuable addition to any pain management formulation. 

, commonly known as Shallaki, contains boswellic acid and is a potent anti-inflammatory herb that can help reduce swelling and pain in the lower back. Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) with its active compound gingerol, offers both anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits. Guggul, derived from the Commiphora Mukul tree, contains guggulsterones, compounds known for their ability to lower inflammation and relieve pain. Finally, cannabis, and specifically cannabinoids - the unique compounds found in the cannabis plant - target multiple pathways in the body to provide both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

Cannabis has gained attention as a potential remedy for lower back pain due to its active compounds. These compounds interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, specifically targeting CB1 and CB2 receptors. By engaging these receptors, cannabinoids can offer dual benefits: pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects. This dual action makes cannabis a compelling option for managing lower back pain.

Oral cannabinoid medications are great for lower back pain, thanks to their unique mechanism of action through retrograde signalling. This process occurs when neurotransmitters released from post-synaptic neurons travel back to presynaptic neurons, where cannabinoids like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) bind to cannabinoid receptors, modulating neurotransmitter release. Oral cannabinoid medicines can effectively reduce the pain signals sent to the brain, providing relief to those suffering from lower back discomfort. Additionally, cannabidiol (CBD), which is one of the primary cannabinoids, has anxiolytic properties, helping to reduce anxiety often associated with chronic pain. This reduction in anxiety can lead to a decreased perception of pain, further benefiting anyone suffering from chronic lower back pain.

Cannabis topicals, including oils, roll-ons, and gels, offer an alternative to oral formulations for managing lower back pain. These topicals interact with cannabinoid receptors in the skin and can penetrate deeper through transdermal technology, providing localized relief. Both 

exhibit powerful analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making topicals a suitable choice for chronic illnesses such as arthritis and lumbago, where localized treatment is crucial. Because they target specific areas, cannabis topicals may be preferred for individuals seeking relief without the stronger psychotropic effects of oral medications. The flexibility in application and reduced risk of side effects make topical cannabinoid medications an attractive option for those looking to manage lower back pain through natural and targeted approaches. 

We offer both topical medication and oral medication to effectively manage lower back pain. If you or a loved one is considering oral medication, you can book a free consultation with our e-clinic for a prescription. 

Chronic lower back pain, often resistant to traditional treatments like NSAIDs and physiotherapy, has shown to respond better to emerging therapies that show promise in providing significant relief, even for long-term sufferers. A recent case study shows the impact of topical and oral cannabinoid medicine in managing this type of pain. Mr. Chopra, a 44-year-old man, had been struggling with lower back pain that radiated to his left leg for three years. Despite trying several pain management strategies, he found little relief until he began using topical CBD oil (Shunyata Relief). Within just seven days, he reported significant pain reduction, improved sleep, and less radiating pain. Encouraged by these results, he transitioned to a treatment plan that combined oral CBD oil with a topical application formulation, experiencing further improvement in his condition.

Another case study sheds light on how cannabinoid medicine can be a valuable tool for more complex lower back pain conditions. Mr. Singh, a 41-year-old man diagnosed with a prolapsed intervertebral disc (PIVD), experienced chronic lower back pain radiating down his left leg, along with numbness and weakness. Conventional treatments were unable to alleviate his symptoms, which made daily activities challenging. Upon starting a combination of oral and topical cannabinoid medicine, Mr. Singh experienced a noticeable reduction in pain intensity. After a month, his allopathic medication was gradually weaned off without the need to increase the dosage of cannabinoid medicine. Cannabinoid-based treatments not only provide effective pain relief but also reduce dependency on traditional medications, offering a pathway to a better quality of life for those with chronic lower back pain.

Natural Remedies for Lower Back Pain

A lady suffering from lower back pain

Lower back pain, medically referred to as lumbago, is a widespread condition that impacts millions globally. Manifesting in various forms from a dull, nagging discomfort to severe, incapacitating agony, pain in the lower back can be acute, sub-acute, or chronic. Although there is no standard treatment to alleviate the discomfort caused by lower back pains, there are comprehensive approaches that account for lifestyle factors, preventive measures, and personalised treatment strategies that can offer lasting relief.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="non-specific-vs-specific-lower-back-pain">Non-Specific vs. Specific Lower Back Pain</h2>Lower back pain can be classified into two primary types: non-specific and specific. Non-specific lower back pain, accounting for approximately 90% of cases, has no identifiable underlying cause. Conversely, specific lower back pain stems from identifiable conditions. They might be specific diseases or structural issues within the spine, such as fractures or tissue damage.&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align: left" id="common-causes-of-lower-back-pain">Common Causes of Lower Back Pain</h2><img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://gglkfcubjshidhufqxdn.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/media/1740865637831_2_ca992106-4e85-490c-b9b9-045977022d5b_480x480.jpg?v=1717148408" alt="cm7qqgbe2008fulnwvtzera4c">Lower back pain is attributed to many factors, each playing a distinct role in its onset and persistence. Among the primary contributors to lower back pain are various forms of injury. Strains or sprains resulting from heavy lifting or sudden, awkward movements often strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, leading to mild or acute pain.Structural issues within the spine, such as Lumbar Spondylitis or Ankylosing Spondylitis, also contribute significantly to lower back pain. These conditions are characterised by inflammation, stiffness, and pain, limiting mobility and causing discomfort.&nbsp;Nerve compression, as seen in conditions like sciatica, presents another common cause of lower back pain. Compression of the nerves in the lower back and legs can lead to sharp, shooting pain that radiates down the leg, resulting from herniated discs or spinal stenosis.Degenerative conditions, including arthritis, can exacerbate lower back pain by causing inflammation, stiffness, and deterioration of the joints in the spine. Over time, these changes can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility in the lower back.Internal issues, such as renal calculus (kidney stones), endometriosis, or ovarian cancers, can manifest as lower back pain too. These conditions may cause referred pain or directly affect the structures surrounding the lower back, leading to discomfort.Following surgical procedures, such as a C-section, individuals may experience lower back pain due to tissue trauma, inflammation, or changes in posture during recovery. Post-surgical pain management is crucial in alleviating discomfort and promoting healing.Lifestyle factors, including long hours of sitting and poor posture, are significant contributors to lower back pain as well. Prolonged sitting strains the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, while poor posture can lead to imbalances and alignment issues, exacerbating pain and discomfort.Moreover, obesity, with its additional pressure on the spine and surrounding muscles, is a significant risk factor for developing chronic lower back pain and can exacerbate existing conditions.Finally, nutritional deficiencies, particularly of calcium and vitamin D, weaken the bones and muscles, increasing the risk of lower back pain. Adequate intake of these nutrients is crucial for maintaining bone health and preventing musculoskeletal issues.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="preventing-lower-back-pain">Preventing Lower Back Pain</h2>Prevention is the best way to manage lower back pain, and making lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating this condition. Here are some essential tips to consider: Firstly, exercise in moderation to avoid overexertion, incorporating activities that strengthen the core and back muscles. Additionally, it&apos;s crucial to avoid prolonged sitting by taking regular breaks and incorporating movement into your daily routine. Maintaining correct body posture, both when sitting and standing, helps alleviate strain on the lower back. Embracing practices like yoga and moderate stretching exercises can enhance flexibility and reduce stiffness, promoting overall spinal health.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://gglkfcubjshidhufqxdn.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/media/1740865639524_Desk_stretch-03_480x480.jpg?v=1713871687" alt="cm7qqgcod008gulnwb8jut9nw"><img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://gglkfcubjshidhufqxdn.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/media/1740865641697_graph_exercises-01_480x480.jpg?v=1713958363" alt="cm7qqge93008hulnwkncg5pj1">Furthermore, incorporating regular meditation sessions into your routine can effectively reduce stress levels, thereby minimizing muscle tension and lowering the risk of experiencing lower back pain. Maintaining a healthy body weight is essential too, as excess weight places undue strain on the lower back muscles. Ensuring a healthy digestion process through a balanced diet and staying hydrated can also aid in reducing inflammation and pain. Lastly, indulging in gentle massage therapy can help increase blood flow and promote relaxation of the muscles, offering relief from lower back discomfort. By implementing these lifestyle modifications, individuals can take proactive steps towards preventing lower back pain and improving their overall well-being.Lower back pain is a complex and widespread condition that can significantly impact one&apos;s quality of life. From non-specific to specific causes, understanding the root of lower back pain is crucial for effective management. People can reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating lower back pain by implementing preventive measures and lifestyle modifications, such as exercise, proper posture, stress reduction techniques, and maintaining a healthy weight. Taking proactive steps towards spinal health not only alleviates discomfort but also improves overall well-being. Contact our <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://eclinic.savikalpa.com/">e-clinic</a> to answer all concerns you might have on lower back pain treatment with a free consultation.Read More:<ul class="list-disc mx-5"><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/natural-remedies-for-lower-back-pain">Natural Remedies for Lower Back Pain</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-chronic-pain">Cannabis for Chronic Pain</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-pain-relief">Using Cannabinoids for Pain Management</a></li></ul>

Lower back pain, medically referred to as lumbago, is a widespread condition that impacts millions globally. Manifesting in various forms from a dull, nagging discomfort to severe, incapacitating agony, pain in the lower back can be acute, sub-acute, or chronic. Although there is no standard treatment to alleviate the discomfort caused by lower back pains, there are comprehensive approaches that account for lifestyle factors, preventive measures, and personalised treatment strategies that can offer lasting relief.

Non-Specific vs. Specific Lower Back Pain

Lower back pain can be classified into two primary types: non-specific and specific. Non-specific lower back pain, accounting for approximately 90% of cases, has no identifiable underlying cause. Conversely, specific lower back pain stems from identifiable conditions. They might be specific diseases or structural issues within the spine, such as fractures or tissue damage. 

Lower back pain is attributed to many factors, each playing a distinct role in its onset and persistence. Among the primary contributors to lower back pain are various forms of injury. Strains or sprains resulting from heavy lifting or sudden, awkward movements often strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, leading to mild or acute pain.

Structural issues within the spine, such as Lumbar Spondylitis or Ankylosing Spondylitis, also contribute significantly to lower back pain. These conditions are characterised by inflammation, stiffness, and pain, limiting mobility and causing discomfort. 

Nerve compression, as seen in conditions like sciatica, presents another common cause of lower back pain. Compression of the nerves in the lower back and legs can lead to sharp, shooting pain that radiates down the leg, resulting from herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

Degenerative conditions, including arthritis, can exacerbate lower back pain by causing inflammation, stiffness, and deterioration of the joints in the spine. Over time, these changes can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility in the lower back.

Internal issues, such as renal calculus (kidney stones), endometriosis, or ovarian cancers, can manifest as lower back pain too. These conditions may cause referred pain or directly affect the structures surrounding the lower back, leading to discomfort.

Following surgical procedures, such as a C-section, individuals may experience lower back pain due to tissue trauma, inflammation, or changes in posture during recovery. Post-surgical pain management is crucial in alleviating discomfort and promoting healing.

Lifestyle factors, including long hours of sitting and poor posture, are significant contributors to lower back pain as well. Prolonged sitting strains the muscles and ligaments in the lower back, while poor posture can lead to imbalances and alignment issues, exacerbating pain and discomfort.

Moreover, obesity, with its additional pressure on the spine and surrounding muscles, is a significant risk factor for developing chronic lower back pain and can exacerbate existing conditions.

Finally, nutritional deficiencies, particularly of calcium and vitamin D, weaken the bones and muscles, increasing the risk of lower back pain. Adequate intake of these nutrients is crucial for maintaining bone health and preventing musculoskeletal issues.

Prevention is the best way to manage lower back pain, and making lifestyle modifications can significantly reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating this condition. Here are some essential tips to consider: Firstly, exercise in moderation to avoid overexertion, incorporating activities that strengthen the core and back muscles. Additionally, it's crucial to avoid prolonged sitting by taking regular breaks and incorporating movement into your daily routine. Maintaining correct body posture, both when sitting and standing, helps alleviate strain on the lower back. Embracing practices like yoga and moderate stretching exercises can enhance flexibility and reduce stiffness, promoting overall spinal health. 

Furthermore, incorporating regular meditation sessions into your routine can effectively reduce stress levels, thereby minimizing muscle tension and lowering the risk of experiencing lower back pain. Maintaining a healthy body weight is essential too, as excess weight places undue strain on the lower back muscles. Ensuring a healthy digestion process through a balanced diet and staying hydrated can also aid in reducing inflammation and pain. Lastly, indulging in gentle massage therapy can help increase blood flow and promote relaxation of the muscles, offering relief from lower back discomfort. By implementing these lifestyle modifications, individuals can take proactive steps towards preventing lower back pain and improving their overall well-being.

Lower back pain is a complex and widespread condition that can significantly impact one's quality of life. From non-specific to specific causes, understanding the root of lower back pain is crucial for effective management. People can reduce the risk of developing or exacerbating lower back pain by implementing preventive measures and lifestyle modifications, such as exercise, proper posture, stress reduction techniques, and maintaining a healthy weight. Taking proactive steps towards spinal health not only alleviates discomfort but also improves overall well-being. Contact our 

 to answer all concerns you might have on lower back pain treatment with a free consultation.

Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions

cannabis for chronic pain blog featured image

<h2 style="text-align: left" id="what-is-chronic-pain">What is Chronic Pain?</h2>Chronic pain is as real an ailment as any and is characterised by persistence. Defined simply, chronic pain is pain that is ongoing and lasts longer than 12 weeks. Signals of chronic pain tend to remain active in the nervous system for weeks, months, and even years. A major misconception of chronic pain is that it is caused by some unrecognised injury, inflammation, or disease, and requires rest for healing and relief. Recent advances, however, suggest that chronic pain is mostly a product of abnormal neural signalling, with biopsychosocial dimensions, and therefore requires a multimodal treatment approach.&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align: left" id="limitations-of-traditional-treatments">Limitations of Traditional Treatments</h2>Most physicians lack an understanding of treatment options for chronic pain and tend to rely on medication alone, which often results in over-reliance on mostly unproven and often harmful drugs. Added to that is the growing dependence on costly and unproven <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34062145/">neuromodulation techniques</a> for treating chronic pain. This over-reliance results from a combination of aggressive drug industry marketing, lack of access to multidisciplinary services like physiotherapy and psychology, and also perverse financial incentives for caregivers to promote shorter consultations, drug prescriptions, and invasive interventions. Cannabis oil for fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions can provide an alternative approach to pain management.Opioids offer a solution in that they are highly effective in treating chronic acute pains, but these are too expensive for most patients in low and middle-income countries. The other challenge with opioids is diversion for recreational use that can cause an &apos;opioid crisis&apos;. Patrick Radden Keefe’s Empire of Pain is an excellent exposition of how chronic pain was misused by a US pharmaceutical firm in a marketing campaign for its opioid formulation. Opioids can be devastating, given their high likelihood of abuse and addiction. But due to the malpractices of some companies and the US opioid crisis, they may no longer be easily available even for cancer patients, for whom opioids are scientifically needed. Seeking alternative options such as CBD for back pain and cannabis oil for fibromyalgia can provide potential avenues for chronic pain relief instead.&nbsp;<h2 style="text-align: left" id="developing-chronic-pain-therapies">Developing Chronic Pain Therapies</h2>We must encourage a nuanced discussion on therapeutic options to cure chronic pain that takes a risk-benefit analysis into account. Also, chronic pain must be given a ‘name’ for ease of explanation to patients. Doctors must explain to patients what they are suffering from in language they can understand. Descriptions like “your pain is a product of abnormal neural signalling with biopsychosocial dimensions&quot; could increase patient anxiety. Explanations should be simpler. Such as: “You have nociplastic pain that will be adequately managed by a team of expert caregivers&quot; or “this condition does not require expensive imaging and blood tests&quot;.Another need of the hour is to establish dedicated ‘pain clinics’ at the community level with multidisciplinary teams at their helm. These teams should include physiotherapists, clinical psychologists-psychiatrists, occupational therapists, pain specialists and rheumatologists. Importantly, these specialists should be trained in differentiating nociceptive pain from nociplastic pain.Another aspect for us to address chronic pain would be to ensure the availability of drugs with proven efficacy in treating nociplastic pains. These include <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9239373/">serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)</a> such as duloxetine, among others; and other anti-depressants, in lower doses, such as amitriptyline, and gabapentinoids such as gabapentin. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs must be avoided as they are not very effective, and their long-term use is fraught with the possibility of serious adverse effects. Likewise, simple painkillers like paracetamol should also be avoided as they are not effective.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="cannabis-as-a-viable-treatment">Cannabis as a Viable Treatment</h2>Cannabinoids, including CBD for back pain and cannabis oil for fibromyalgia, a class of drugs derived from the cannabis plant, and more commonly used by Ayurvedic physicians in their whole-plant format, may offer an answer as they are strong relievers of nociplastic pain. In several Western countries, cannabis has been taken out of the category of a &apos;controlled substance&apos; and is now being used to treat a host of conditions, while also being misused as a recreational drug.This class of drugs, however, risks facing the same fate as opioids, waylaying another set of drugs that could be useful if given by experts on the basis of correct indications and all the precautions against misuse. Cannabinoids have a deep-rooted and old India connection. For thousands of years, cannabinoids have been used in Ayurvedic medicines. Their pharmacological properties must be scientifically studied by pharmacologists, especially from the standpoint of controlling nociplastic pains. Cannabinoid receptors are distributed widely in different parts of the central nervous system, including in the brain. These cannabinoid receptors help break down <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2430692/">CBD oil for pain relief</a>.&nbsp;Pharmacologists may like to investigate this &apos;Indian&apos; drug to find out the mechanistic basis of nociplastic pain control, if any. That may open a path for scientifically conducted and strictly controlled trials for its efficacy and adverse effects both over a short period (drug trial) as well as over long periods in phase-IV (post-marketing) surveys. Exploring the potential of cannabinoids, such as CBD for back pain or cannabis oil for fibromyalgia, in providing chronic pain relief requires rigorous scientific investigation and clinical trials.Chronic pain is real. It deserves to be taken more seriously. The big question is whether cannabinoid medicines could help. The jury is still out on that, as experts will have to submit these medicines to authorities for appropriately conducted, double-blind controlled trials in patients with chronic nociplastic pains. It is critical for these trials that they involve specialists who can correctly and accurately diagnose fibromyalgia (nociplastic) pains. If these drugs prove to be effective and without any short-term or long-term adverse effects, then applications may be submitted to the appropriate authority for their approval for use by practitioners of modern medicine.Check out a wide range of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://shop.savikalpa.com/collections/shunyata">plant based medicines here</a>.Anand N. Malaviya is former head of the department of medicine and chief of clinical immunology and rheumatology services, All-India Institute of Medical SciencesAlso Read:<ul class="list-disc mx-5"><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/understanding-lower-back-pain-causes-prevention-and-solutions">Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-chronic-pain">Cannabis for Chronic Pain</a></li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-pain-relief">Using Cannabis for Pain Management</a></li></ul>

Chronic pain is as real an ailment as any and is characterised by persistence. Defined simply, chronic pain is pain that is ongoing and lasts longer than 12 weeks. Signals of chronic pain tend to remain active in the nervous system for weeks, months, and even years. A major misconception of chronic pain is that it is caused by some unrecognised injury, inflammation, or disease, and requires rest for healing and relief. Recent advances, however, suggest that chronic pain is mostly a product of abnormal neural signalling, with biopsychosocial dimensions, and therefore requires a multimodal treatment approach. 

Most physicians lack an understanding of treatment options for chronic pain and tend to rely on medication alone, which often results in over-reliance on mostly unproven and often harmful drugs. Added to that is the growing dependence on costly and unproven 

 for treating chronic pain. This over-reliance results from a combination of aggressive drug industry marketing, lack of access to multidisciplinary services like physiotherapy and psychology, and also perverse financial incentives for caregivers to promote shorter consultations, drug prescriptions, and invasive interventions. Cannabis oil for fibromyalgia and other chronic pain conditions can provide an alternative approach to pain management.

Opioids offer a solution in that they are highly effective in treating chronic acute pains, but these are too expensive for most patients in low and middle-income countries. The other challenge with opioids is diversion for recreational use that can cause an 'opioid crisis'. Patrick Radden Keefe’s Empire of Pain is an excellent exposition of how chronic pain was misused by a US pharmaceutical firm in a marketing campaign for its opioid formulation. Opioids can be devastating, given their high likelihood of abuse and addiction. But due to the malpractices of some companies and the US opioid crisis, they may no longer be easily available even for cancer patients, for whom opioids are scientifically needed. Seeking alternative options such as CBD for back pain and cannabis oil for fibromyalgia can provide potential avenues for chronic pain relief instead. 

We must encourage a nuanced discussion on therapeutic options to cure chronic pain that takes a risk-benefit analysis into account. Also, chronic pain must be given a ‘name’ for ease of explanation to patients. Doctors must explain to patients what they are suffering from in language they can understand. Descriptions like “your pain is a product of abnormal neural signalling with biopsychosocial dimensions" could increase patient anxiety. Explanations should be simpler. Such as: “You have nociplastic pain that will be adequately managed by a team of expert caregivers" or “this condition does not require expensive imaging and blood tests".

Another need of the hour is to establish dedicated ‘pain clinics’ at the community level with multidisciplinary teams at their helm. These teams should include physiotherapists, clinical psychologists-psychiatrists, occupational therapists, pain specialists and rheumatologists. Importantly, these specialists should be trained in differentiating nociceptive pain from nociplastic pain.

Another aspect for us to address chronic pain would be to ensure the availability of drugs with proven efficacy in treating nociplastic pains. These include 

serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)

 such as duloxetine, among others; and other anti-depressants, in lower doses, such as amitriptyline, and gabapentinoids such as gabapentin. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs must be avoided as they are not very effective, and their long-term use is fraught with the possibility of serious adverse effects. Likewise, simple painkillers like paracetamol should also be avoided as they are not effective.

Cannabinoids, including CBD for back pain and cannabis oil for fibromyalgia, a class of drugs derived from the cannabis plant, and more commonly used by Ayurvedic physicians in their whole-plant format, may offer an answer as they are strong relievers of nociplastic pain. In several Western countries, cannabis has been taken out of the category of a 'controlled substance' and is now being used to treat a host of conditions, while also being misused as a recreational drug.

This class of drugs, however, risks facing the same fate as opioids, waylaying another set of drugs that could be useful if given by experts on the basis of correct indications and all the precautions against misuse. Cannabinoids have a deep-rooted and old India connection. For thousands of years, cannabinoids have been used in Ayurvedic medicines. Their pharmacological properties must be scientifically studied by pharmacologists, especially from the standpoint of controlling nociplastic pains. Cannabinoid receptors are distributed widely in different parts of the central nervous system, including in the brain. These cannabinoid receptors help break down 

Pharmacologists may like to investigate this 'Indian' drug to find out the mechanistic basis of nociplastic pain control, if any. That may open a path for scientifically conducted and strictly controlled trials for its efficacy and adverse effects both over a short period (drug trial) as well as over long periods in phase-IV (post-marketing) surveys. Exploring the potential of cannabinoids, such as CBD for back pain or cannabis oil for fibromyalgia, in providing chronic pain relief requires rigorous scientific investigation and clinical trials.

Chronic pain is real. It deserves to be taken more seriously. The big question is whether cannabinoid medicines could help. The jury is still out on that, as experts will have to submit these medicines to authorities for appropriately conducted, double-blind controlled trials in patients with chronic nociplastic pains. It is critical for these trials that they involve specialists who can correctly and accurately diagnose fibromyalgia (nociplastic) pains. If these drugs prove to be effective and without any short-term or long-term adverse effects, then applications may be submitted to the appropriate authority for their approval for use by practitioners of modern medicine.

Anand N. Malaviya is former head of the department of medicine and chief of clinical immunology and rheumatology services, All-India Institute of Medical Sciences

Cannabis for Chronic Pain

discovering new avenues for fibromyalgia medication blog featured image

<h2 style="text-align: left" id="cannabis-for-fibromyalgia-symptoms">Cannabis for Fibromyalgia Symptoms</h2>There is increasing interest in cannabis medicine as a treatment for fibromyalgia. This is not just due to its effects on nociplastic pain (analgesic properties) but also due to its potential to help with other associated symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety and depression.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="dr-michele-rosss-journey-with-fibromyalgia">Dr. Michele Ross’s Journey with Fibromyalgia</h2>‘I feel almost the same as before I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia’Sometimes, where you’re meant to be is 180 degrees from where you started. That seems to be the case with cannabis and treating fibromyalgia with CBD oil to Dr. Michele Ross.“I started really against drugs,” Ross told The Cannigma, describing her childhood dream of becoming a doctor to help tackle societal problems of addiction. “I wanted to help people get off drugs.”Ross did become a doctor in the end, but a major part of her work as a neuroscientist involves helping patients find relief through the use of cannabinoids for pain management.Like many cannabis sceptics before her, it was a personal diagnosis that changed her relationship with the plant.While studying for her PhD at the University of Texas Southwestern in 2006, she was assigned a paper about how cannabinoids affect the brain. To her surprise, the work concluded that cannabis can be beneficial.&nbsp;<img height="400" width="1200" class="" src="https://media.savikalpa.com/storage/v1/object/public/media/discovering-new-avenues-for-fibromyalgia-medication-blog-image.png" alt="cmcauieuj0azykzsqzfegp5mg">Dr. Michele Ross (Courtesy)A few years later, she woke up one morning and one of her hands simply stopped working. She initially thought she slept on it funny, but weeks later, the hand was still asleep, and she was still in pain. Ross was eventually diagnosed with fibromyalgia, which she blames in part on the chemicals she exposed herself to during her lab work.“I probably Spidermanned myself, but instead of superpowers, I just got super chronic pain,” Dr. Ross said.Her physicians put her on a regimen of painkillers and other prescription medications that she said left her edgy, irritable, miserable, and wanting to take her own life.Eventually, she decided to try a homemade cannabis topical that she would massage on her skin, helping “the nerves wake up,” she said.The topical is nothing fancy, Ross said, just a mix of high-THC cannabis, coconut oil, and peppermint oil. Commenting on the benefits of CBD for fibromyalgia treatment, Ross said the THC is much more helpful than CBD creams, adding that “the menthol in the cream helps me more than the CBD.”Today, she takes a 10-20mg THC edible before she goes to sleep to help her get the rest she needs, as well as microdoses 1.25mg THC during the day. She has also used cannabis suppositories to treat pelvic pain, using other cannabinoids for pain management.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="understanding-fibromyalgia-better">Understanding Fibromyalgia Better</h2>“We know that with Fibromyalgia, the sleep disruption causes a lot of the problems during the day. Your pain is worse if you don’t sleep, your fatigue is worse, your brain fog, not being able to focus, is worse if you don’t sleep,” she explained.Fibromyalgia is a debilitating disease that causes widespread chronic pain as well as fatigue and memory problems, among other symptoms. It is about twice as common in women as in men.<h2 style="text-align: left" id="treating-fibromyalgia-with-cannabis">Treating Fibromyalgia with Cannabis</h2>Many Fibromyalgia patients use cannabis, treating fibromyalgia with CBD oil. Research has been limited, but the studies that have been done demonstrated evidence of its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, as well as improving overall quality of life by improving sleep and other ancillary symptoms.The author of five books, including “Vitamin Weed” and “Journal Yourself to Health: Break Free From Pain,” Ross said that cannabis cream “has been a lifesaver,” and has made it possible to continue writing despite the pain.&nbsp;Ross has also been very active in drug policy reform and is the founder of Infused Health, her patient consulting company. She also provides consultations on the therapeutic use of psychedelic mushrooms. Perhaps most uniquely, though, in 2009 she became the first scientist to appear on CBS’ “Big Brother,” and lasted 66 days on the show.Ross believes that the key to cannabis treatment is finding the right product for the patient. And she recommends patients start with a nighttime edible. Treating fibromyalgia with CBD oil has proven effective in the past; it&apos;s just about how it works from individual to individual.&nbsp;“The number one thing I start with fibromyalgia patients is getting them on that edible at night because it’s going to be something that you know, you don’t feel that high while you’re asleep, so it’s a very safe way to get cannabis into your life,” Dr. Ross said.She added that, “if you sleep good and you can keep your stress low, you can sort of almost put your fibromyalgia into remission.”Ross does stress, though, that even though she believes cannabis to be “the number one way to treat fibromyalgia,” it’s no silver bullet and there are all types of symptoms from fatigue to pain and spasms that may require different answers. While the benefits of CBD for fibromyalgia treatment are abundant, it can help to look at various natural remedies for other symptoms.&nbsp;Regardless, one benefit of cannabis is pretty consistent across the board.“Cannabis is great at reducing stress. Stress will make this disease much worse for you. So if all it does is help you relax, have a new day and help manage your stress, you’re going to have a better life with fibromyalgia,” she said.For Ross, her current regimen is light years from the early days before she started using cannabis, when she was, in her words, on 12 different prescriptions and felt altogether miserable. She said it took her a couple of years to figure out the right regimen for her, which she said is key to helping patients get back to having as good a life as possible.“The biggest thing is to be able to have those consistent days where you don’t have to take three days off of work because you’re in so much pain or you’re so fatigued that it affects your professional life. So the goal is really to get people to have as many good days as possible.”She added that for her, cannabis “really does set the bar where I’m not inflamed, I’m not in pain, my sleep is good, my mood is good. I’m not anxious, I’m not depressed, I feel almost the same as before I was diagnosed.”<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://shop.savikalpa.com/collections/shunyata">Shop Cannabis Medicines For Fibromyalgia here.</a>This article was originally published on The Cannigma and shared here with permission.Read More:<ul class="list-disc mx-5"><li><p style="text-align: left; --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-pan-x: ; --tw-pan-y: ; --tw-pinch-zoom: ; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-gradient-from-position: ; --tw-gradient-via-position: ; --tw-gradient-to-position: ; --tw-ordinal: ; --tw-slashed-zero: ; --tw-numeric-figure: ; --tw-numeric-spacing: ; --tw-numeric-fraction: ; --tw-ring-inset: ; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(59,130,246,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-blur: ; --tw-brightness: ; --tw-contrast: ; --tw-grayscale: ; --tw-hue-rotate: ; --tw-invert: ; --tw-saturate: ; --tw-sepia: ; --tw-drop-shadow: ; --tw-backdrop-blur: ; --tw-backdrop-brightness: ; --tw-backdrop-contrast: ; --tw-backdrop-grayscale: ; --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: ; --tw-backdrop-invert: ; --tw-backdrop-opacity: ; --tw-backdrop-saturate: ; --tw-backdrop-sepia: ; --tw-contain-size: ; --tw-contain-layout: ; --tw-contain-paint: ; --tw-contain-style: ; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px solid rgb(229, 229, 229); margin: 0px 0px 16px; color: rgb(3, 45, 74); font-size: 24px !important; line-height: 40px; min-height: 16px" class="null"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-chronic-pain">Cannabis for Chronic Pain</a></li><li><p style="text-align: left; --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-pan-x: ; --tw-pan-y: ; --tw-pinch-zoom: ; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-gradient-from-position: ; --tw-gradient-via-position: ; --tw-gradient-to-position: ; --tw-ordinal: ; --tw-slashed-zero: ; --tw-numeric-figure: ; --tw-numeric-spacing: ; --tw-numeric-fraction: ; --tw-ring-inset: ; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(59,130,246,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-blur: ; --tw-brightness: ; --tw-contrast: ; --tw-grayscale: ; --tw-hue-rotate: ; --tw-invert: ; --tw-saturate: ; --tw-sepia: ; --tw-drop-shadow: ; --tw-backdrop-blur: ; --tw-backdrop-brightness: ; --tw-backdrop-contrast: ; --tw-backdrop-grayscale: ; --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: ; --tw-backdrop-invert: ; --tw-backdrop-opacity: ; --tw-backdrop-saturate: ; --tw-backdrop-sepia: ; --tw-contain-size: ; --tw-contain-layout: ; --tw-contain-paint: ; --tw-contain-style: ; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px solid rgb(229, 229, 229); margin: 0px 0px 16px; color: rgb(3, 45, 74); font-size: 24px !important; line-height: 40px; min-height: 16px" class="null"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/cannabis-for-pain-relief">Using Cannabis for Pain Management</a></li><li><p style="text-align: left; --tw-border-spacing-x: 0; --tw-border-spacing-y: 0; --tw-translate-x: 0; --tw-translate-y: 0; --tw-rotate: 0; --tw-skew-x: 0; --tw-skew-y: 0; --tw-scale-x: 1; --tw-scale-y: 1; --tw-pan-x: ; --tw-pan-y: ; --tw-pinch-zoom: ; --tw-scroll-snap-strictness: proximity; --tw-gradient-from-position: ; --tw-gradient-via-position: ; --tw-gradient-to-position: ; --tw-ordinal: ; --tw-slashed-zero: ; --tw-numeric-figure: ; --tw-numeric-spacing: ; --tw-numeric-fraction: ; --tw-ring-inset: ; --tw-ring-offset-width: 0px; --tw-ring-offset-color: #fff; --tw-ring-color: rgba(59,130,246,.5); --tw-ring-offset-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-ring-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow: 0 0 #0000; --tw-shadow-colored: 0 0 #0000; --tw-blur: ; --tw-brightness: ; --tw-contrast: ; --tw-grayscale: ; --tw-hue-rotate: ; --tw-invert: ; --tw-saturate: ; --tw-sepia: ; --tw-drop-shadow: ; --tw-backdrop-blur: ; --tw-backdrop-brightness: ; --tw-backdrop-contrast: ; --tw-backdrop-grayscale: ; --tw-backdrop-hue-rotate: ; --tw-backdrop-invert: ; --tw-backdrop-opacity: ; --tw-backdrop-saturate: ; --tw-backdrop-sepia: ; --tw-contain-size: ; --tw-contain-layout: ; --tw-contain-paint: ; --tw-contain-style: ; box-sizing: border-box; border: 0px solid rgb(229, 229, 229); margin: 0px 0px 16px; color: rgb(3, 45, 74); font-size: 24px !important; line-height: 40px; min-height: 16px" class="null"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/blog/understanding-lower-back-pain-causes-prevention-and-solutions">Understanding Lower Back Pain: Causes, Prevention, and Solutions</a></li></ul><div class="note">Medically Reviewed by - <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://savikalpa.com/about">Dr. Bhanu, Ayurvedic Physician</a></div>

There is increasing interest in cannabis medicine as a treatment for fibromyalgia. This is not just due to its effects on nociplastic pain (analgesic properties) but also due to its potential to help with other associated symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Dr. Michele Ross’s Journey with Fibromyalgia

‘I feel almost the same as before I was diagnosed with fibromyalgia’

Sometimes, where you’re meant to be is 180 degrees from where you started. That seems to be the case with cannabis and treating fibromyalgia with CBD oil to Dr. Michele Ross.

“I started really against drugs,” Ross told The Cannigma, describing her childhood dream of becoming a doctor to help tackle societal problems of addiction. “I wanted to help people get off drugs.”

Ross did become a doctor in the end, but a major part of her work as a neuroscientist involves helping patients find relief through the use of cannabinoids for pain management.

Like many cannabis sceptics before her, it was a personal diagnosis that changed her relationship with the plant.

While studying for her PhD at the University of Texas Southwestern in 2006, she was assigned a paper about how cannabinoids affect the brain. To her surprise, the work concluded that cannabis can be beneficial. 

A few years later, she woke up one morning and one of her hands simply stopped working. She initially thought she slept on it funny, but weeks later, the hand was still asleep, and she was still in pain. Ross was eventually diagnosed with fibromyalgia, which she blames in part on the chemicals she exposed herself to during her lab work.

“I probably Spidermanned myself, but instead of superpowers, I just got super chronic pain,” Dr. Ross said.

Her physicians put her on a regimen of painkillers and other prescription medications that she said left her edgy, irritable, miserable, and wanting to take her own life.

Eventually, she decided to try a homemade cannabis topical that she would massage on her skin, helping “the nerves wake up,” she said.

The topical is nothing fancy, Ross said, just a mix of high-THC cannabis, coconut oil, and peppermint oil. Commenting on the benefits of CBD for fibromyalgia treatment, Ross said the THC is much more helpful than CBD creams, adding that “the menthol in the cream helps me more than the CBD.”

Today, she takes a 10-20mg THC edible before she goes to sleep to help her get the rest she needs, as well as microdoses 1.25mg THC during the day. She has also used cannabis suppositories to treat pelvic pain, using other cannabinoids for pain management.

“We know that with Fibromyalgia, the sleep disruption causes a lot of the problems during the day. Your pain is worse if you don’t sleep, your fatigue is worse, your brain fog, not being able to focus, is worse if you don’t sleep,” she explained.

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating disease that causes widespread chronic pain as well as fatigue and memory problems, among other symptoms. It is about twice as common in women as in men.

Many Fibromyalgia patients use cannabis, treating fibromyalgia with CBD oil. Research has been limited, but the studies that have been done demonstrated evidence of its effectiveness in treating chronic pain, as well as improving overall quality of life by improving sleep and other ancillary symptoms.

The author of five books, including “Vitamin Weed” and “Journal Yourself to Health: Break Free From Pain,” Ross said that cannabis cream “has been a lifesaver,” and has made it possible to continue writing despite the pain. 

Ross has also been very active in drug policy reform and is the founder of Infused Health, her patient consulting company. She also provides consultations on the therapeutic use of psychedelic mushrooms. Perhaps most uniquely, though, in 2009 she became the first scientist to appear on CBS’ “Big Brother,” and lasted 66 days on the show.

Ross believes that the key to cannabis treatment is finding the right product for the patient. And she recommends patients start with a nighttime edible. Treating fibromyalgia with CBD oil has proven effective in the past; it's just about how it works from individual to individual. 

“The number one thing I start with fibromyalgia patients is getting them on that edible at night because it’s going to be something that you know, you don’t feel that high while you’re asleep, so it’s a very safe way to get cannabis into your life,” Dr. Ross said.

She added that, “if you sleep good and you can keep your stress low, you can sort of almost put your fibromyalgia into remission.”

Ross does stress, though, that even though she believes cannabis to be “the number one way to treat fibromyalgia,” it’s no silver bullet and there are all types of symptoms from fatigue to pain and spasms that may require different answers. While the benefits of CBD for fibromyalgia treatment are abundant, it can help to look at various natural remedies for other symptoms. 

Regardless, one benefit of cannabis is pretty consistent across the board.

“Cannabis is great at reducing stress. Stress will make this disease much worse for you. So if all it does is help you relax, have a new day and help manage your stress, you’re going to have a better life with fibromyalgia,” she said.

For Ross, her current regimen is light years from the early days before she started using cannabis, when she was, in her words, on 12 different prescriptions and felt altogether miserable. She said it took her a couple of  years to figure out the right regimen for her, which she said is key to helping patients get back to having as good a life as possible.

“The biggest thing is to be able to have those consistent days where you don’t have to take three days off of work because you’re in so much pain or you’re so fatigued that it affects your professional life. So the goal is really to get people to have as many good days as possible.”

She added that for her, cannabis “really does set the bar where I’m not inflamed, I’m not in pain, my sleep is good, my mood is good. I’m not anxious, I’m not depressed, I feel almost the same as before I was diagnosed.”

Shop Cannabis Medicines For Fibromyalgia here.

This article was originally published on The Cannigma and shared here with permission.

Discovering New Avenues for Fibromyalgia Medication

using cannabinoids for pain management blog featured image

One of the most common uses of medical cannabis is to treat chronic pain. But how do cannabinoids relieve pain? Read on.

Cannabis medicine has gained increased focus and importance in recent years concerning pain management and treatment. Not only is cannabis commonly sought out as an alternative to traditional pain medications, but also as a treatment option for conditions known to be treatment resistant, and more critically, as a tool to be used in opioid use reduction strategies and in reducing opioid related deaths.

The sensations of pain are a natural result of the body’s response to the experience or perception of injury or illness. Damaged cells signal the brain, resulting in the sensation of pain.

Increased Pain Sensitivity (Hyperalgesia)

Increased Perception of Pain Severity (Allodynia)

The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a role in the process of pain signalling. This pain signalling can be suppressed or blocked by activating the CB1 receptors of the ECS. Cannabinoid medicine treatment can also result in noticeable improvements in sensations of mobility, pain, and pain at rest.

In countries and jurisdictions where access to cannabis medicine products has been legalised and/or decriminalised, pain is among the top conditions prioritised by health care providers specialising in cannabinoid medicine treatment.

Pain can have many causes, both known and unknown, and can often be the result of a variety of interconnected factors.

Worldwide, chronic pain is among the most common patient factors reported in years lived with disability. Individuals experience chronic pain differently in both severity and duration. For many, the source of their pain may be elusive and remain undiagnosed. These sensations of pain can at times be constant, or experienced in unpredictable intervals or waves.

When a patient suffers nerve damage from an injury or illness, pain signalling can persist well beyond the healing time of the initial injury itself. Patients with neuropathic pain may experience persistent or episodic sensations of burning, tingling, sharp, stabbing/shooting pain. Studies have shown that cannabinoids have the potential to cause a significant reduction in neuropathic pain symptoms.

Pain related to cancer can often be the result of tumours applying pressure to soft tissue, organs, nerves and/or bones. Pain is also an associated side effect of common cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery. Patients using cannabis medicine have reported varying levels of reduction in cancer-related pain.

TRADITIONAL MEDICATIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF PAIN

Opioids (Codeine, Morphine, Oxycodone, Buprenorphine)

Antidepressants (Amitriptyline, Venlafaxine, Duloxetine)

The primary focus of pain treatment is to improve overall pain management and to limit the impacts on an individual’s activities of daily life. With this focus in mind and with the information available at the time, many doctors all over the world for the past several decades have prescribed opiates for the treatment of pain more and more frequently and in higher doses. This has resulted in what many characterise as a crisis of opioid related use disorder and mortality.

This growing crisis has driven a fundamental need to source effective and evidence-based treatment options for reducing the pain management community’s reliance on prescription opioids. Cannabis medicine has proven not only to be an effective alternative to beginning the use of high-dose opioids in the first place, but it has also been shown to be useful as an opioid-sparing medication. By reducing the overall opioid dosage potency required to achieve pain symptom management, the use of cannabis medicine along with opioids can reduce daily dosage needs, and thus potentially reduce the occurrence of opioid-related overdose and death.

In jurisdictions where access to cannabis has already been granted, there is often a correlated reduction in the total number of opioid prescriptions given by health care providers, as well as a reduction in the duration of dosage supplied. Researchers have also noted reductions in the prescribing of other drugs such as gabapentin and pregabalin.

ADDITIONAL TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT

While studies are still ongoing, additional research is needed to fully understand the therapeutic potential and possible side effects of cannabis medicine as a treatment option for pain and as an opioid use reduction tool.

To begin your cannabis medicine journey today, book an appointment now with the 

 for an online doctor consultation, or request more information from a member of our highly trained clinic staff (eclinic@savikalpa.com).

We pride ourselves on being one of India’s most qualified sources of fast, friendly, and professional access to 

Interested in learning more? Send us your questions (eclinic@savikalpa.com). It is our mission to educate patients in any way we can, and we would be delighted to hear from you.

Research regarding cannabis, pain and opiate use reduction:

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