Chronic pain in winter: How can medical cannabis help?
Around 28 million people in the UK live with chronic pain, with seven million prescribed opioids or strong painkillers. Whilst medication can work for some, it doesn’t work for everyone. As a result, an increasing number of adults are seeking natural, holistic alternatives to traditional pain relief medicines.
One such chronic pain treatment is medical cannabis, which is available in the form of cannabis flower, oil, cartridges, and capsules in various combinations of THC, CBD, and balanced profiles from Mamedica.
Mamedica is the UK’s leading medical cannabis clinic, and we are proud to support patients from all backgrounds who are living with chronic pain and have found traditional remedies ineffective.
If this sounds like you, take our eligibility test in under 60 seconds.
How does winter worsen pain?
Winter weather can intensify chronic pain symptoms, especially for conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and nerve-related disorders. Cold temperatures and dampness can worsen stiffness, inflammation, and discomfort. To help manage your symptoms in the colder months and throughout the year, a medical cannabis prescription can be helpful.
Why is medical cannabis an effective chronic pain treatment?
Pain relief:
Medical cannabis has shown promise in alleviating chronic pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help reduce pain levels.
Anti-inflammatory properties:
Inflammatory conditions often worsen during winter, leading to heightened pain. Medical cannabis has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help mitigate inflammation associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
Cannabinoids are essential in reducing inflammation, but terpenes are also important components of any cannabis strain. They work together with cannabinoids and other compounds present in the cannabis plant to provide medicinal benefits for patients managing various medical conditions. For example, terpenes like nerolidol and terpinolene possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve pain.
Improved sleep quality:
Chronic pain can disrupt sleep patterns, contributing to fatigue and increased pain sensitivity. Research suggests certain strains of medical cannabis may promote relaxation and improve sleep quality to support overall pain management.
Muscle relaxation:
When pain persists, it can trigger a domino effect of muscle tension, limited mobility, and emotional stress. Cold winter weather can cause muscles to tense up, aggravating pain and activating this cycle more frequently. Medical cannabis can induce muscle relaxation, reducing stiffness and promoting greater flexibility for those with chronic pain, such as back pain.
Mood enhancement:
During winter, patients suffering from chronic pain may experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which can result in low mood.
Cannabis strains that contain mood-enhancing properties, specifically mood-boosting terpenes, can be beneficial in alleviating low mood, helping patients manage their pain better and cope with the emotional challenges that come with it.
Reaching out to Mamedica
If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic pain this winter, find out how Mamedica can help with personalised medical cannabis prescriptions. Our experienced doctors provide compassionate care and guidance on relieving pain during virtual consultations, whilst our clinic team is always on hand to support you in your patient journey.
You deserve a pain-free winter. Get started by checking your eligibility for treatment with Mamedica in just 60 seconds.