Medical Cannabis for Chronic Pain

Medical cannabis for chronic pain conditions can be considered when traditional treatments have not provided effective relief from symptoms or have caused unwanted side effects.

Our team of UK-registered expert clinicians will guide you through medical cannabis treatment. No GP referral needed.

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Men holding back because of chronic painMen holding back because of chronic pain

What is Chronic Pain?

1 in 3

UK adults are estimated to live with chronic pain in some form*

Chronic pain is pain that persists, or keeps returning, for longer than 12 weeks. Although some people may find relief with conventional treatments, for others it simply isn't enough.

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Medical cannabis is considered by specialists as part of a wider, clinically supervised pain-management plan - used alongside, not instead of, your existing care.

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*The British Pain Society study Jun 2016

Common Chronic Pain symptoms

These symptoms are common but general — an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan can only come from a qualified healthcare professional.

Constant or recurring pain

Fatigue

Joint stiffness

Low mood

Muscle tension

Reduced mobility

Sleep disruption

Stress

How Alternaleaf can help

Personalised care plans from UK-registered clinicians experienced in chronic pain management

Online video appointments from the comfort of your own home, no travel required

Ongoing support and treatment reviews

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can medical cannabis help with chronic pain in older adults?

Some studies have explored whether medical cannabis may help manage symptoms of chronic pain in certain patients, including older adults, but evidence is still developing, and results may vary between individuals.

Is medical cannabis a first-line pain treatment?

No. To qualify for a medical cannabis prescription, you need to have been offered at least two conventional treatments for your diagnosed condition. These treatments can include medication, talking therapy, physiotherapy, surgery and anything else prescribed by your GP.

Can cannabis help with chronic pain?

Medical cannabis is a prescription-only option that a specialist doctor may consider for chronic pain when traditional treatments haven’t worked or have caused unwanted side effects.

Can Cannabis be used for complex regional pain Syndrome?

A specialist doctor may consider medical cannabis for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) if standard treatments haven’t been effective or have caused unwanted side effects. Each case is assessed individually, taking into account your medical history, current medicines and previous treatments.