Study: Arthritis Patients Report “Substantial” Improvements Following Cannabis Use

A new study published in the journal Cureus highlights the potential benefits of medical cannabis for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Researchers from the University of Central Florida, College of Medicine, surveyed 290 arthritis patients, finding notable reductions in pain and improvements in other symptoms following the use of cannabis products.

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Key Findings

1. Pain Reduction:

   • Average pain levels decreased significantly after cannabis use, from 6.16 (on a 10-point scale) to 3.89.

   • This reduction in pain was consistent across both RA and PsA patients.

2. Symptom Improvement:

   • Patients reported improvements in joint stiffness, fatigue, and swelling, suggesting broader benefits beyond pain relief.

3. Preferred Methods of Use:

   • RA patients typically used inhaled cannabis (e.g., flower or vape), likely due to the rapid relief provided by systemic absorption.

   • PsA patients preferred topical cannabis products, which may better address localized and cutaneous symptoms.

Implications

The findings reinforce growing evidence supporting cannabis as a therapeutic option for managing arthritis symptoms. Notably, the study suggests that cannabinoids may help reduce pain severity and improve quality of life, offering an alternative or adjunct to conventional treatments like opioids.

Expert Perspectives

The study's authors emphasized the need for continued research to refine cannabinoid therapies for arthritis patients. They highlighted that while inhaled forms provide quick relief, topical formulations may be ideal for targeted symptoms. This nuanced understanding could guide personalized treatment approaches.

Broader Context

Survey data indicate that approximately 20% of arthritis patients use cannabis to manage symptoms, with many reducing their reliance on prescription medications, particularly opioids. These trends underscore cannabis's potential role in pain management strategies amid the ongoing opioid crisis.

The full study, titled “Patient-reported outcomes of pain, stiffness, and fatigue reduction in rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis with cannabis use,” can be found in Cureus. Further insights on the use of cannabinoids for arthritis and related conditions are available through NORML’s clinical publications.

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