Medical marijuana is revered as a healing plant due to its beneficial medical nature. Historical records prove that medical cannabis was used for managing pain, nausea, and other health issues in the past. In recent times, it has been explored as a pain reliever and therapeutic alternative to opioids or traditional drugs. Florida like few other states has established an MMJ program regulated by the Florida Department of Health. However, there are limitations to the utilization of this drug. Moreover, patients must get a medical marijuana card Naples before using medical cannabis.
In this article, we will explain the uses of medical marijuana for chronic pain. We will also explore the types of MMJ products available for pain relief.
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks and does not improve with medication or treatment. It can range from severe, sharp pain to a dull, numbing ache that significantly impacts a patient’s quality of life.
Chronic pain indicates an underlying medical condition and must be investigated to identify its root cause. Moreover, persistent chronic pain can lead to complications such as depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances, making it challenging to work, perform daily tasks, and even socialize.
Due to its debilitating effects, finding an effective therapy for chronic pain is crucial. The treatment approach can vary based on the type of chronic pain, considering factors such as diagnosis, underlying and pre-existing health conditions, and family history. Thus, the role of a medical health expert remains significant in devising strategies or treatment roadmaps.
Understanding Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana refers to cannabis that is prescribed by physicians for medicinal uses. Medical marijuana is derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant. It has therapeutic applications due to its cannabinoids with healing properties.
Marijuana cannabinoids such as THC and CBD are believed to affect the body’s endocannabinoid system. These compounds are gaining traction for their medicinal nature against pain and its types.
Forms of MMJ
Medical marijuana can come in a variety of forms, such as buds, vapes, smokables, candies, teas, soups, drinks, topicals, patches, and even concentrated extracts. However, it is crucial to understand that a doctor’s role is necessary for the safe and responsible use of this drug alternative.
What are the MMJ Eligibility Criteria?
Based on the laws, Florida allows MMJ use for only a few medical conditions and their related symptoms. Therefore, not every patient can opt for this type of alternative treatment for a health issue. The qualifying conditions for MMJ use include the following:
- Alzheimer’s
- cancer
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Anemia
- Sleep disorders
- Multiple sclerosis
- Chronic pain
- HIV/AIDS
- Muscle spasms or spasticity
- Parkinson’s
- Epilepsy
- Glaucoma
- Nausea or vomiting
- Anorexia or wasting syndrome
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
You must note that this list includes any other illness similar to the ones mentesses or diagnosed by a licensed physician. Also, having an MMJ card and consulting a medical marijuana doctor are among the necessary steps for using cannabis for the listed conditions.
Utilizing Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain
Diverse health conditions can give rise to chronic pain, with variations in severity among individuals. A comprehensive investigation is essential to ensure accurate treatment and complete symptom relief.
In certain instances, conventional medications may prove ineffective and carry adverse effects over prolonged usage. Seeking safer alternatives for pain management has led researchers to explore medical marijuana.
Studies highlight the efficacy of marijuana-based products like lotions, creams, and oils in pain relief. The mechanism by which these cannabis-derived medicines impact the body and address chronic pain is still under examination.
The body’s endocannabinoid system, comprising CB1 and CB2 receptors is crucial for physiological processes and brain signals. It plays a pivotal role to carry out various functions in the body.
When cannabinoids from cannabis bind to these receptors, they offer an anti-inflammatory response, offering pain relief and reducing inflammation. However, it is crucial for patients considering marijuana products for pain management to consult with professionals in the field.
How to get your Medical Marijuana Certification?
If you are a Floridian and willing to opt for medical cannabis, you can get started by following some simple steps:
Check Eligibility
You must ensure you meet Florida’s eligibility criteria, for MMJ use. Moreover, you must schedule an appointment with a qualified doctor who can confirm your eligibility and recommend medical marijuana.
Physician Evaluation
You must visit the doctor for medical evaluation and discuss your condition. If they believe you qualify for MMJ, they will issue a written recommendation.
State Application
After getting a recommendation, you must visit the MMUR website and complete the required application form. You may need to pay an application fee and submit your documents. The required documents include a physician’s recommendation, application, photo ID, and any additional documents as required.
Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you can wait for its approval. This process can take a few weeks. Once you get your MMJ card in the mail, you can locate state-licensed medical marijuana dispensaries. Curaleaf and Liberty Health Sciences are among the well-known dispensaries in Florida.
However, you must follow the laws surrounding MMJ use. Also, MMJ is not a replacement for any conventional medication prescribed by your doctor. Therefore, you must not use it as a sole treatment for any health concern.
Book a Consultation
Medical marijuana can potentially aid to cope with chronic pain. The vital compounds of marijuana, such as THC, CBD, along with terpenes, can be beneficial for pain management. However, expert consultation with the best marijuana doctor Naples is necessary to take the first step towards this type of treatment. My Florida Green experts can guide you to get a valid MMJ card and add cannabis into your pain relief treatment regimen.
