The Many Benefits of Medical Cannabis

I am often asked about what kind of patients may benefit from, and the kind of medical conditions that can be treated with medical cannabis.

A recent Mayo Clinic study looking at the top 10 reasons patients go to see their doctor included: back problems, joint pain and arthritis, mood issues including, depression and insomnia, headaches (including migraines), neurologic conditions, digestive issues, and skin concerns. For many patients, cannabis may not be the first treatment that comes to mind; however, these are exactly the kind of patients I see daily, helping them find real relief and healing.

A common misconception about cannabis is that it is only for the sickest of patients with cancer or those undergoing palliative or end-of-life care, or seizures.

Patients are often surprised when I tell them I can treat their day-to-day symptoms of stress and anxiety, mood issues, pain from any cause or condition, and sleep issues especially. More recently I have helped women find relief from their menopause symptoms. I have seen patients with digestive issues  including acid-reflux and irritable bowel syndrome benefiting from cannabis. Patients recently seen in the office with skin conditions benefited from topical cannabis treating actinic (sun-damaged skin), as well as dermatitis from eczema and psoriasis. In addition, I recall a recent patient with insomnia telling me that it was his “first good night’s sleep I’ve had in 20 years”, and now he is out walking 4 miles a day, and finally losing some weight. More examples include a patient finding pain relief, even after being told that “there is nothing else to do for you”, except to be put on strong narcotics; and he was grateful not to have to do so, and now being able to enjoy a more normal life. It is true: cannabis transforms people.

Is there is any one regret I hear from patients about medical cannabis? Typically, is that they wish they had started it sooner. I reassure patients that it is never too late. I have patients well in to their 70 and 80’s thriving with medical cannabis. I give assurances to both patients and physicians that the medical benefits from cannabis are real and sustainable, and not simply getting people high.

Are you interested in what medical cannabis can do for you?

Schedule an appointment with me today if you would like to experience the transformation of medical cannabis for yourself!