Medical marijuana has given relief to patients undergoing chemotherapy and to those with glaucoma, chronic pain, and even depression. A study reported in the
Canadian Medical Association Journal, revealed that smoking marijuana can also relieve symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
The study tested 30 patients with multiple sclerosis who experienced the MS-related symptom spasticity, which causes muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. With an average age of 51, at least half of the patients needed walkers and wheelchairs for mobility. Most of the patients had not previously responded to treatment for spasticity.
Study participants were given marijuana to smoke at least once a day for three days. Half of the participants were given placebos. After 11 days, the groups were switched and the process was repeated. After the patients smoked, their muscle tone in the elbows, hips and knees was assessed among other tests. The participants reported up to 50% less pain after smoking marijuana for at least three consecutive days.
-Follow Elise Rambaud Marrion, @emarrion_cmn.
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