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Aches and pains are part of everyday life for most people. But for someone with peripheral neuropathy, persistent pain can get in the way of everyday life. It’s a condition that develops when nerves in certain parts of the body, like the hands, feet and arms, are damaged.
Symptoms vary, depending on which nerves are damaged, but the main ones, that are usually constant, include:
- Numbness and tingling
- Burning, stabbing or shooting pains
- Loss of balance and co-ordination
- Muscle weakness
Around 1 in 10 people aged 55 or over in the UK are affected by the condition. And finding treatment for this condition can be difficult, depending on the symptoms and underlying cause.
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions, chronic pain being one of them. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick questionnaire on our website. Below we’ll be exploring medical cannabis and cannabinoids for pain relief.
Comparing CBD, THC, and Other Cannabinoids
Tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are two of over 100 cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. They’re active compounds that can cause effects throughout the body, and you’ll see them often when researching medical cannabis. The main difference is that THC can produce a ‘high’, while CBD doesn’t. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
Put very simply, medical cannabis works by harnessing cannabinoids to bind to pain receptors and nerve cells, then slow down the pain response. This, in turn, has the potential to ease discomfort.
Both THC and CBD play a lead role on certain health conditions, and can sometimes be greater together, due to a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
How Does CBD Help with Neuropathy
Despite being the leading condition that affects the nervous system, chronic nerve pain is notoriously hard to treat. But, while it noted further studies are needed, a 2015 meta-analysis gave encouraging signs that medical cannabis may provide short-term neuropathic pain relief.
It’s possible that CBD oil for nerve pain could be an effective option, having the potential to reduce inflammation, support nerve repair and improve circulation.
This 2015 study explores how CBD has the potential to increase the body’s levels of anandamide, a compound associated with regulating pain, which can reduce pain perception and improve mood.
In a 2022 study, CBD had a pronounced impact on pain. Such findings, and CBD for neuropathy, are backed up by more studies.
Role of THC in Neuropathy Treatment
Other data implies a mix of THC for neuropathy and CBD may also prove effective. Thanks to THC’s analgesic properties, it also has the potential to help reduce pain signals. And this can result in an enhanced quality of life for people living with and experiencing chronic pain.
Types of Neuropathy Treated with Medical Cannabis
As we mentioned above, peripheral neuropathy can affect the hands, arms, legs, and feet. And medical cannabis has the potential to ease pain experienced in these areas.
In the UK, both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral neuropathy. And medical cannabis can be prescribed for pain that comes as a symptom of this. We have lots more information on that here.
Medical Cannabis Consumption Methods for Neuropathy Relief
When it comes to medical cannabis, the way you consume is down to personal preference, lifestyle and your clinicians recommendation. They’ll advise you on how to consume THC and CBD for nerve pain relief based on your symptoms and condition, but they’ll also work with you to find what you’re comfortable with. Remember, you may not choose the right form at first, so speak to your clinician if you have any questions or preferences. Below we’ve got a brief explanation of different ways to consume medical cannabis:
- Inhaling: This method of consumption provides rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes, making it suitable for immediate relief of symptoms such as pain. However, remember that smoking your prescription is illegal in the UK and could lead to lung damage. So, if your preferred method is inhalation, purchasing a dry herb vaporiser through a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf is the best solution.
- Cannabis Edibles & Capsules: Consuming cannabis-infused ‘edibles’, like pastilles, or soft gel capsules, results in slower onset of effects, which can take between 1 to 2 hours. This method is ideal for longer-lasting relief.
- CBD & THC Oils/Tinctures: Placing cannabis oil or tincture under the tongue provides a faster onset than edibles, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, and, like edible options, relief tends to last.
Possible Side Effects and Risks of Medical Cannabis
Most common side effects are short-term, and should wear off within a few hours. These include:
- Coughing (when inhaled)
- Bloodshot or irritated eyes
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth or thirst
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea
- Feeling tired
Most of the above shouldn’t cause you any concern. However, if you experience any debilitating side effects, and if they persist, stop taking your medication immediately, and speak to your clinician.
The best way to avoid side effects is to follow the dosage guidance your clinician gives you. They’ll work with you to choose a dosage that suits you and your symptoms. You may not get it right the first time you use medical cannabis, which is why we recommend starting slow. It’s also important to remember that everyone’s body can react differently, and you’ll have your own individual tolerance to the medication. Just monitor how you react to your medication, and feed this back to your clinician during your next appointment.
Summary
Aches and pains affect us all, but chronic pain conditions like peripheral neuropathy can have a significant impact on the day-to-day lives of those who suffer from it.
THC and CBD neuropathy treatment are an option for people looking to potentially relieve pain, and get their lives back on track. But more research is needed to understand the full potential of medical cannabis.
The best thing to do is speak to your Doctor or clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second questionnaire.