Medical Cannabis and Spinal Cord Injury
Dr. Michael Duplessie, FRCS Ophth (Glasgow), M.B., B.Ch., L.R.C.P. & S.I., B.A.O., B.A.
Medical Cannabis, Spinal Cord Injury, Spinal Pain
As people with spinal cord injury (SCI) experience chronic pain, they often seek relief from various medications. Medicinal cannabis (MC) has shown promise in addressing pain, muscle spasms, sleeplessness, and anxiety, but its efficacy and safety are not fully understood. This study aimed to assess the utilization, knowledge, and perceptions of MC among individuals with SCI, comparing current users (CU), past users (PU), and never users (NU) through a nationwide online survey.
The results revealed that CU and PU reported greater pain interference in daily life than NU, but there were no significant differences in quality of life, physical or emotional health. The participants used MC primarily to manage pain, muscle spasms, sleeplessness, and anxiety, and 63.3% reported it provided “great relief” from symptoms. They also reported that MC was more effective and caused fewer side effects than prescription medications.
Overall, this study suggests that MC is an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for individuals with SCI experiencing certain symptoms. Despite NU’s apprehensions towards legalization and risks, the use of MC might offer relief to those with chronic pain. However, further research is required to fully understand the benefits and risks of MC for individuals with SCI.
Medical Marijuana
Safe & Legal
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to breaking conventions and helping those in need. My passion for medicine began during my time working in refugee camps in Thailand, and since then, I have made it my mission to provide care and support to those who need it most.
As a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology, I have made numerous contributions and innovations in the field of corneal transplantation and laser surgery. I am comfortable challenging conventions.
I have seen firsthand the positive impact medical marijuana can have on patients struggling with pain and anxiety.
My experiences have shown me that medical marijuana can offer significant benefits with minimal side effects, providing patients with an alternative to traditional pharmaceutical medications. Despite its potential, the government’s stance on marijuana is outdated and in need of revision.
Through my observations, I have seen prescription rates for pain, stress, insomnia, anxiety to name just a few, drastically decrease among patients who have obtained a medical marijuana card, and I believe that this is a testament to its effectiveness.
