As medical director for Medical Cannabis of Southern California I often evaluate patients who suffer from arthritis.   Many patients are unaware of the significant anti-inflammatory properties that cannabinoids (the medically active ingredients in the plant) have.    Arthritis (inflammation and an overall degradation of the joint) can be secondary to an old injury or as a result of aging.  This joint pain often causes daily pain and also many of my patients have difficulty sleeping at night as a result of “not being able to get comfortable.”

For patients who are unaware of cannabis and its effects on decreasing pain and inflammation this is a very exciting discovery.   In the mid 1980′s scientist discovered that the human body contains two specific types of receptors which cannabinoids bind to in the body.   They are primary located in the nervous and immune systems.  As a result of medicating with the plant patients almost feel an immediately relief of their pain and joints become inflamed.

The reason why I think patients should give cannabis serious consideration is because it is very safe when compared to many of the NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as motrin and tylenol.  NSAIDS can cause ulcerations in the lining of the digestive tract and as a result many patients have developed bleeding which can potentially be life threatening.   Tylenol can also be very toxic to your liver.    Cannabis does not have a negative affect on any of the major organ systems (if vaporized)  and is easily tolerated.    Typically patients can vaporize a small amount prior to going to bed and they end up getting a very restful sleep and wake up feeling much more rested and pain free.

For more information on cannabis and how it can help you please visit our website at www.MCSoCal.com  Dr. Sean Breen specializes in discussing the benefits and risks of medicating with cannabis with patients.  His offices are located in Long Beach, Irvine and Encinitas.