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Spasticity
Treating Spasticity with Medical Marijuana
What is Spasticity?
Spasticity is a neuromuscular condition characterized by muscle stiffness, aches, and involuntary spasms. There is no cure for spasticity, but several treatment options may help manage symptoms. For example, medical marijuana for spasticity has shown promise.
Spasticity is often associated with movement and coordination problems, as well as pain. In addition, this condition impacts muscle control, making it difficult to perform simple tasks, such as walking and reaching.
What causes Spasticity?
Spasticity is caused by an imbalance of signals between the brain and spinal cord to the muscles. This may be due to injury, disease, or abnormalities in the nervous system, spinal cord, and brain.
Spasticity is a common condition associated with:
- Cerebral palsy
- Stroke victims
- Spinal cord injuries
- Multiple sclerosis
- Traumatic brain injuries
Fortunately, spasticity is an approved, qualifying condition for a Florida medical marijuana card. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with spasticity or another qualifying condition for medical marijuana in Florida, contact an experienced medical marijuana doctor today.
Symptoms of Spasticity
Spasticity may affect any muscle group in the body but is most commonly seen in the legs, arms, and back. Spasticity generally causes a tight and stiff feeling in the affected muscles. This makes it difficult to stand, walk, or move the affected body part in a smooth and coordinated manner. Symptoms of spasticity may range from mild to severe and tend to be worse at night
Other symptoms of spasticity may include:
- Hyperactive reflexes
- Involuntary movement
- Spasms
- Pain
- Decreased motor function
- Constipation
- Frequent fever
- Abnormal posture
- Permanent muscle or tendon contraction
- Bone and joint deformities
- Anxiety
- Depression
Treating Spasticity With Medical Marijuana
If you are one of the estimated 500,000 people in the United States who experience spasticity, you may be wondering what your options are for treatment. Marijuana has been used to treat various medical conditions for centuries and has shown promise in treating spasticity, especially in those with MS.
When cannabis and its derivatives, such as CBD and THC, are introduced into the body, they interact with its endocannabinoid system. This system is responsible for maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body.
Cannabinoids are able to bind to receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which then leads to various changes in the body, such as a decrease in inflammation, pain, and muscle spasms. In addition, cannabis may slow the progression of spasticity by protecting against the degeneration of nerves. Moreover, medical cannabis may treat physiological symptoms associated with spasticity, such as anxiety and depression.
Suggested Strains and Terpenes for Spasticity
When using medical marijuana to treat any condition, it is always good practice to research and find strains that are known to be beneficial to your specific condition. In addition, the terpenes, or compounds in each strain, play a role in the overall effect of cannabis. So looking for strains high in certain terpenes, such as myrcene and caryophyllene, may also be beneficial in treating spasticity.
The following are some suggested strains and terpenes that may provide relief from spasticity:
ACDC
This hybrid strain is low in THC and high in CBD. It may help to relieve spasticity as well as pain. ACDC has an earthy flavor profile and produces few psychoactive effects. If you are looking for a strain to use during the day, ACDC may be a good option.
Charlotte's Web
Charlotte's Web is another low THC strain with the right amount of CBD to help treat spasticity. If you want to treat your symptoms without feeling too high, this Sativa strain may be right for you. Charlotte's Web has a sweet and citrusy flavor making it a pleasant experience on the body and the tongue.
Bubba Kush
This popular Indica strain is known for its heavy tranquilizing effects. Bubba Kush is ideal for treating spasticity due to its ability to relax the muscles in your body. If you are having trouble sleeping because of spasticity, this may also be a good strain for you as it promotes sleepiness and may help with insomnia.
Grandaddy Purple
Granddaddy Purple is a calming Indica strain with notes of grape, berry, and plum. This strain offers relaxing effects on the body and may help with spasticity. In addition to relieving spasticity, Granddaddy Purple may also reduce pain, lower stress, and improve your appetite. Similar to Bubba Kush, this strain may also help you sleep better, which is important if spasticity is causing insomnia.
Terpenes for Muscle Spasms
- Caryophyllene: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help to reduce inflammation and muscle spasms. Caryophyllene can be found in Bubba Kush and is responsible for giving the strain its earthy and coffee undertones.
- Myrcene: Myrcene is the most common terpene in cannabis and can be seen in ADCD, Grandaddy Purple, and Charlotte's Web. This terpene has sedative effects, perfect for inducing sleep and reducing spasticity.
- Linalool: This terpene is fragrant and floral, so it may be a good choice if you prefer the smell of lavender. Furthermore, Linalool has sedative and anti-inflammatory effects, which may be useful in reducing muscle spasms.
Potential Side Effects of Cannabis for Spasticity
While cannabis is generally safe and well-tolerated, some potential side effects should be considered. These include changes in:
- Sleep
- Fatigue
- Memory
- Appetite
- Mood
- Reaction time
These side effects are typically mild and temporary. It’s important to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed to minimize the risk of side effects
Find a Medical Marijuana Doctor for Spasticity Near You
Are you or a loved one looking for relief from spasticity? Our team of knowledgeable and compassionate medical marijuana doctors may help. If you’re a Florida resident suffering from a qualifying condition such as spasticity, you may be eligible for treatment with medical cannabis. Take our qualification survey and schedule an appointment today.
