Arthritis is a condition that causes chronic pain, and when left untreated, it can significantly affect an individual’s ability to carry out daily activities, leading to a reduced quality of life. While conventional treatments are available, medical cannabis is increasingly being explored as a potential alternative for managing arthritis symptoms, including pain, inflammation, and anxiety.

Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is not a single condition but rather an umbrella term for various types of joint pain and inflammation. The four most common forms are:

• Osteoarthritis: Caused by the degeneration of cartilage, leading to friction and pain in the joints.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the joints.

• Psoriatic Arthritis: Linked to the skin condition psoriasis, causing inflammation in the joints.

• Gout: Caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to severe pain.

Each form of arthritis requires different treatment strategies, making it essential to discuss all available options with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your current treatment plan.

Components of Cannabis

Cannabis contains over 550 compounds, including cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Among these, cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) are the most studied for their therapeutic potential.

• CBD: A non-intoxicating cannabinoid that has shown potential anti-inflammatory and therapeutic benefits.

• THC: The main psychoactive compound in cannabis, known for producing a “high,” but also linked to pain and inflammation relief.

The “Entourage Effect” theory suggests that combining cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from cannabis may produce more significant therapeutic effects than using a single compound alone.

How Cannabis Works in the Body

Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a regulatory system responsible for maintaining balance in various bodily functions, including pain perception, mood, sleep, and inflammation.

The ECS consists of:

• Endocannabinoids: Cannabinoids produced naturally by the body.

• Receptors: CB1 and CB2 receptors, which interact with both endocannabinoids and phytocannabinoids (cannabinoids from plants like cannabis).

• Enzymes: Responsible for breaking down cannabinoids after they have fulfilled their purpose.

When you consume cannabis, the cannabinoids bind to the receptors in the ECS, potentially modulating pain, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep, all of which are key issues for arthritis sufferers.

Effectiveness of Medicinal Cannabis for Arthritis

While there is limited direct research on cannabis specifically for arthritis, several studies support its potential to alleviate arthritis symptoms.

• Study on CBD for Arthritis: A paper titled “Cannabidiol as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain: an exploratory cross-sectional study” found that CBD was associated with reduced inflammation, improved physical function, and better sleep quality. Many participants reduced or stopped using other medications after incorporating CBD into their treatment.

• Cannabis and Inflammation: Another study discussed how cannabis extracts could inhibit inflammatory responses, suggesting that phytocannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids may help reduce inflammation.

• CBD for Joint Disease: A review titled “Cannabidiol: A Brief Review of Its Therapeutic and Pharmacologic Efficacy in the Management of Joint Disease” highlighted CBD’s potential to reduce inflammation and pain related to arthritis.

• THC and Pain Relief: Research shows that THC can provide moderate relief from both acute and chronic pain, making it a potential alternative to opioid medications.

How to Use Medicinal Cannabis for Arthritis

Before starting medical cannabis, it is crucial to consult a doctor who is qualified to prescribe it. Cannabis is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, and a healthcare professional can help tailor the dosage and form to your specific needs.

There are several ways to administer medicinal cannabis:

• Vaporising dried flower: Offers rapid effects with fewer health concerns compared to smoking. The effects last for up to two hours.

• Sublingual tinctures: These are administered under the tongue, providing fast, discreet relief.

• Edibles: Offer long-lasting effects, but take longer to work as they must pass through the digestive system. Edibles are best for managing long-term chronic pain but should be taken in regulated doses.

Safety Considerations

As with any medication, there are safety considerations when using cannabis for arthritis. It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to ensure that cannabis is appropriate for your condition and that you are using it safely.

Some potential side effects of cannabis include:

• Dry mouth

• Red eyes

• Dizziness

• Anxiety

• Fatigue

• Low blood pressure

• Increased heart rate

• Cognitive impairment

Though cannabis is generally considered safe when used under medical supervision, it is important to note that long-term use may lead to cognitive decline in some individuals. As with any medication, moderation is key.

Conclusion

While the research on medicinal cannabis for arthritis is still developing, the current evidence suggests that it may offer significant benefits for managing pain, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep. However, it is not a cure and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

If you are considering medical cannabis for arthritis, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your condition and provide personalised advice.