This is a condition in which a damaged disc in your spinal column causes pain. The pain can vary from nagging to disabling. Most people’s spinal discs show signs of wear as they age. In some people, this can progress to degenerative disc disease. It typically results in a wide range of symptoms and levels of severity.
Medical cannabis is a potential, non-invasive treatment option for pain relief with degenerative disc disease.
Spinal discs sit between the bones of the spine and are a bit like shock absorbers. They help your back stay flexible while absorbing the force from all kinds of impact. Several factors can lead to degenerative disc disease, including:
Degenerative disc disease typically requires treatment options and external intervention since once a disc is injured, it can’t repair itself. Damage to the disc can lead to a spiral of degeneration that manifests in stages over 20 to 30 years. Symptoms of this condition include:
Conventional treatment options for degenerative disc disease include surgical intervention, artificial disc replacement, nonoperative treatment via back braces, and pain management via opioids.
A significant body of research has shown that medical cannabis can benefit patients with chronic pain.
Cannabinoids are thought to help with pain stemming from systemic inflammation, such as with disc injuries and conditions like arthritis. Cannabidiol (CBD), in particular, is believed to stimulate an autoimmune response during the inflammation process. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is thought to interact with cannabinoid receptors in the brain to help reduce pain signaling.
Medical cannabis can help deal with the associated symptoms of chronic pain, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It’s also considered to be a better alternative to prescription opioids and a viable treatment option for degenerative disc disease.
If you’re exploring alternative sources of pain relief for a degenerative disc, consider starting a medical cannabis routine. Book a telemedicine appointment with one of our physicians at Texas 420 Doctors. Each of our doctors is board-certified and CURT-registered. Get your medical cannabis approval letter and dispensary recommendations and conveniently order medical cannabis online from the comfort of your home.
Reach out to us with questions about our services or treatment options for degenerative disc disease. We are available to discuss your condition and offer guidance for treatment.
