A recent study has found a significant proportion of musculoskeletal pain patients finding relief using medical cannabis products.
Musculoskeletal impairments encompass more 150 different diseases and conditions affecting muscles, bones, joints, and surrounding connective tissues. These impairments can cause temporary or permanent limitations in a person’s ability to function and participate in daily activities.
According to the World Health Organisation, musculoskeletal conditions are the leading contributor to disability worldwide, with approximately 1.71 billion people with these conditions.
A US study evaluated long-term medical cannabis (MC) use patterns, perceived efficacy, and impact on cognition among 127 patients with chronic musculoskeletal noncancer pain.
Close to 78% of patients reported using medical cannabis daily or near daily; with 63.6% using topical formulations.
Among the results:
- 77.5% reported using cannabis for more than two years.
- Topicals were the most commonly used form of cannabis – 63.5%.
- More than 93% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed MC improved their primary symptoms.
- 72.1% said cognitive and motor effects were minimal.
- 79.8% of respondents indicated stable usage patterns over the prior three months.
- Very few reported a need or external suggestion to reduce intake.
- Around half of the respondents were unsure of their exact tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and/or cannabidiol (CBD) dosage.
“One of the most significant findings highlights the overwhelmingly positive perceptions around cannabis use among patients,” states the study. “Nearly 99% of respondents reported that neither their friends, family members, nor healthcare providers had ever expressed concerns or suggested that their cannabis usage posed a problem.”
The researchers concluded:
“Long-term MC use is a stable and well-tolerated option for managing chronic musculoskeletal pain, with high patient-reported efficacy and minimal cognitive impact. These findings support its role in pain management while highlighting the need for further research on optimal dosing and long-term safety.”
The study has been published in the journal Cureus.
Commenting on the findings, NORML’s Deputy Director Paul Armentano said:
“These findings add to the growing body of evidence that cannabis is effective in the treatment of multiple conditions, including chronic pain, and that it possesses a safety profile that is often superior to traditional medications, like opioids.”
