When we look at utilizing cannabis for the treatment of neurological conditions, many factors must be considered. What symptoms are being caused by the condition? What is the progressive disease process behind the condition? What forms of cannabis will best address the patient’s symptoms, condition and lifestyle? Ultimately, what is the goal of treatment?

Many neurological conditions share common symptoms such as muscle spasms, pain, loss of appetite, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and the list goes on. Cannabis can address many of these common symptoms effectively, improving the quality of life for many patients.

Cannabis can also help combat the disease progression of many neurological conditions. Cannabinoids are neuroprotective against the processes involved in neural cell damage as a result of overstimulation and neuroinflammation. In neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis, neuroinflammation and demyelination of the nerves cause the progression of neurodegeneration. Targeting the body’s Endocannabinoid System with cannabinoids like CBD and THC from cannabis helps to reduce neuroinflammation and may help to slow disease progression in the long run.

The cannabis plant contains many phytocannabinoids that work with our individual Endocannabinoid Systems (ECS), of which the most prolific are CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). Many forms of cannabis products are available to suit any lifestyle and dosing requirements. Patients now have many more options than simply smoking; tinctures, capsules, edibles, topicals, vape pens, suppositories, and flower can be tailored to comprise a complete treatment plan for each individual patient’s needs.

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center published a review of the neurological benefits of phytocannabinoids in the Surgical Neurology International journal, citing treatments being done on patients with malignant brain tumors, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, and seizure disorders. Back in 2014, the authors found that the American Academy of Neurology completed a review of studies using medical marijuana for clinical benefits for neurological disease or symptoms; there was strong support for use of medical cannabis or cannabinoids at that time to mitigate pain or other symptoms related to spasticity.  As the benefits of medical cannabis become more widely studied and accepted, the potential for decreased stigmatization is high for many more conditions. It is important to consult with your neurologist about introducing cannabis into your current treatment plan. Cannabis may be a fantastic therapeutic option for your neurological condition.

Finding Reliable Treatment Advice

It can be a challenge to know who to trust when it comes to getting medical marijuana advice for neurological conditions. For example, some conventional doctors may not be open to speaking about medical marijuana as a possible treatment option. One place you can find reliable, judgment-free advice is the Brain and Spine Center in Chandler, AZ. They offer a full range of treatments for various neurological conditions and have experienced physicians on staff that can help guide you in the right direction.

Our staff here at Oasis is happy to assist you every step of the way in getting your card and choosing the right product/delivery method for your specific neurological condition:

To learn how to get your card and to see the full list of qualifying conditions click here.

To schedule a free appointment with our resident medical director during her office hours click here.

Feel free to contact us directly any time for more information. We look forward to helping you find relief!

———————

https://www.labroots.com/trending/cannabis-sciences/11925/neurological-benefits-phytocannabinoids

https://www.handbook-of-cannabis-and-related-pathologies

Cannabidiol: pharmacology and potential therapeutic role in epilepsy and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Epilepsia. 2014; 55: 791-802

Endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-related mediators: targets, metabolism and role in neurological disorders. Prog Lipid Res. 2016; 62: 107-128