One of the most common uses of medical cannabis is to treat chronic pain. In fact, modern research on cannabis and pain dates back to before 1975. Over 10% of US adults have suffered from some degree of daily pain for at least three months, so the need for improved treatment is clear. And this is an area of ample scientific research. There have been a number of preclinical and clinical trials studying cannabis’ effects on pain. While the research points to a mostly positive effect, it’s not as simple as smoking a joint to cure yourself.