What Are The Benefits Of Medical Marijuana?
The potential therapeutic benefits of medical marijuana have been studied and debated for decades. Recent studies report that medical cannabis may have benefits for several severe conditions. In fact, the FDA has approved several medications to help control nausea that use THC in their formulations.
There is certainly a dearth of good peer-reviewed studies as to the efficacy of this plant-based remedy due to the prior regulations. However, there are a lot of basic science and animal studies that support this phytochemical for the use in many medical conditions, especially for intractable pain.
State laws vary when it comes to marijuana use. In Louisiana, to access medical marijuana products in State-sanctioned dispensaries, you must have a qualifying condition and an official recommendation from a certified physician. Some qualifying conditions include:
- Intractable pain
- Seizure disorder
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis and muscle spasms
- HIV/AIDS
- Chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Cancer
Medical Marijuana at Warner Orthopedics & Wellness
Dr. Meredith Warner, the founder of Warner Orthopedics & Wellness, believes in the therapeutic potential of cannabis, which is why she became certified by the State of Louisiana to make recommendations for its possible use.
You can only access medical cannabis from certified dispensaries throughout the state, but Dr. Warner does offer in-person consultations and virtual assessments to determine if you qualify for an official recommendation.
In the past few years, cannabis has been promoted as an alternative or adjunct to opioid therapy for the management of intractable pain related to musculoskeletal disorders – or after surgery. Since the science surrounding medical cannabis is relatively new, most studies rely on patients self-reporting their marijuana use and its purported benefits. The results thus far seem promising.
It is important to understand that there is a lack of peer-reviewed studies on this product. Dr. Warner will be able to answer your questions as to the basic science of how this phytochemical interacts with our human endocannabinoid system during your consultation and follow-up visits.
In a recent study released as part of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons’ Virtual Education Experience, up to 20% of patients reporting chronic musculoskeletal pain self-reported cannabis use – and reported success in relieving their pain.
How Medical Cannabis Works
The cannabis plant contains over 60 active phytochemicals. The most well-known are THC (marijuana’s psychoactive compound) and CBD. These chemicals, known as phytocannabinoids, mimic your body’s natural endocannabinoids.
This enables them to bind to and alter receptors throughout the body, particularly within the nervous system, brain, immune system and GI tract.
Studies have shown that as these chemicals bind to our endocannabinoid receptors they exert their influence. This results in decreased inflammation, a decreased sensation of pain, improved appetite, relief from anxiety, and reductions in oxidative stress.
Dr. Meredith Warner believes in the power of holistic and natural therapeutics as effective alternatives to heavier, side-effect-prone pharmaceuticals. Cannabis has shown great promise in relieving intractable orthopedic pain in particular, and for those seeking a holistic alternative to opioids, it may be an option.
This is why Dr. Warner became certified to make recommendations for this phytochemical in the state of Louisiana.
To determine if you qualify for an official recommendation, click the link below to schedule your virtual consultation with Dr. Warner:
