Marijuana Edibles Work Well For Lower Back Pain – Edibles Are Reliable For Long-Lasting Pain Relief

Lower back pain is a common health condition faced by many adults aged 18 and up. According to the World Health Organization, 619 million people worldwide were affected by lower back pain in 2020 alone.

Lower back pain can be challenging to treat. It can be caused by a multitude of factors, ranging from musculoskeletal causes, bad posture, an unhealthy lifestyle, obesity, injuries, stress, or medical conditions. Sometimes, more serious cases of lower back pain can be caused by fibromyalgia, arthritis, osteoporosis, or other more serious conditions.

Prompt treatment of lower back pain is critical to improving one’s quality of life, especially if it coexists with other medical conditions. The lower back plays an important role in overall function and mobility, so without treatment, lower back pain can significantly restrict movement and affect one’s abilities to exercise and do basic tasks. In addition, it’s necessary to avoid complications.

There are several treatment options available for lower back pain, including physical therapy, medications, and perhaps lifestyle changes – depending on the cause. However, researchers have found that cannabis is particularly effective at targeting an array of pain conditions – including lower back pain.

Marijuana Edibles Good For Lower Back Pain

In a recent study out of Boulder, Colorado, researchers found that THC-rich cannabis edibles worked very well for patients who suffered from lower back pain.

Investigators from the University of Colorado at Boulder analyzed the impact of three edible products: high THC, high CBD, and edibles with similar amounts of CBD and THC. They were given to 249 study participants with lower back pain, who then consumed them for 2 weeks. The researchers assessed the subjective mood and pain intensity of patients at the end of the study.

“Pain intensity following edible cannabis decreased over time across all three broadly defined product groups,” they reported. However, the most significant improvements were observed among the patients who consumed the high THC edibles, while those who consumed high CBD edibles reported “short-term tension relief”.

“These findings support the short-term analgesic effects of THC and anxiolytic effects of CBD,” the authors concluded. They also added that the findings indicate that “…edible cannabis may be a safe and suitable alternative pain therapy for those looking to substitute more traditional pain medications,” they said.

What Other Studies Say

There is a growing number of medical literature supporting the efficacy and safety of medical cannabis for treating lower back pain.

A 2018 study from Israel focused on 31 fibromyalgia (FM) patients who had lower back pain. The researchers analyzed the analgesic properties of inhaled marijuana and compared it with opioids. The patients who were given inhaled marijuana with a low THC potency (under 5%) were treated for at least 6 months. Afterwards, these patients reported that they observed greater improvement in pain when they medicated with marijuana compared to just opioids.

They also reported an improvement in their range of motion after marijuana treatment though no similar improvements were observed with opioids.

“This observational cross-over study demonstrates an advantage of MCT (medical cannabis treatment) in FM patients with LBP (lower back pain) as compared with SAT (standard analgesic therapy). Further studies randomized clinical trials should assess whether these results can be generalized to the FM population at large,” the authors concluded.

Why Edibles Work Best For Pain

While there are many products and methods available to medicate with cannabis for pain, it’s no wonder a great deal of patients prefer to use edibles. Compared to vaping, smoking, and topicals, edibles are superior when it comes to long-lasting pain relief because the cannabinoids in marijuana edibles pass through the liver.

The result is a much slower release into the bloodstream, providing patients with 4 up to 8 hours of pain relief. Whereas, other methods may only provide one to three hours of relief.

Additionally, when THC is metabolized in the liver, it’s converted into 11 hydroxy THC. This metabolite is much more potent than THC and can provide more effective pain relief. There are other benefits to edibles, too, such as the fact that the onset is gradual and more uniform, plus it poses no irritation to the lungs. After edibles, sublingual tinctures and oils aren’t too far off; their effects can also last as long as 8 hours. Other alternative products include capsules and pills,

Conclusion

Marijuana products, particularly edibles or tinctures, have been proven to be effective in helping reduce the severity of pain while one is undergoing treatment for lower back pain. The analgesic properties of THC are well-studied, though CBD isn’t far off either; depending on the patient, THC or CBD, or a dose of both, can work well to reduce pain caused by a variety of factors.

After all, cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system to efficiently treat inflammation and pain while promoting homeostasis. While many pharmaceutical medications actually work well at numbing pain, they fail to address the root cause, which is inflammation. Thanks to the availability of THC and CBD products now, individuals can say goodbye to lower back pain.

Depending on the severity of the condition, and whether or not other illnesses are involved, one may be able to safely medicate with marijuana to help reduce lower back pain and improve your overall quality of life. Always reach out to a medical professional with experience in treating pain with cannabis if you have questions.

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The conversation around cannabis has evolved significantly in recent years, especially with the increasing legalization and decriminalization of marijuana in various regions. This shift has not only changed the legal landscape but has also influenced cultural attitudes toward cannabis use among different demographics, particularly adolescents. Understanding how teens perceive cannabis is crucial, as these views can shape their behaviors and choices regarding substance use. A key factor influencing these perceptions is the attitudes and behaviors of parents regarding cannabis. This article explores the intricate relationship between teens’ views on cannabis and their perceptions of parental use, examining the implications for adolescent behavior, family dynamics, and public health.

The Changing Landscape of Cannabis Use

Legalization and Cultural Acceptance

The legalization of cannabis in several states and countries has led to a more open dialogue about its use. As of 2023, many jurisdictions have legalized marijuana for both medical and recreational purposes. This change has normalized cannabis in society, making it more accessible to young people. Consequently, adolescents are exposed to varying messages about cannabis, which can complicate their understanding of its risks and benefits.

Adolescents and Substance Use

Adolescence is a critical developmental stage characterized by exploration and experimentation. During this period, teens are particularly susceptible to peer influence, social norms, and familial attitudes. Research consistently shows that substance use during adolescence can lead to long-term consequences, including addiction, mental health issues, and impaired academic performance. Therefore, understanding the factors that influence adolescent views on cannabis is essential for prevention efforts.

 The Role of Parental Influence

Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children’s perceptions of substances like cannabis. Studies indicate that adolescents are more likely to use cannabis if they perceive their parents as accepting or using it themselves. Conversely, strong parental disapproval of drug use is associated with lower rates of adolescent substance use. This dynamic underscores the importance of parental attitudes in influencing teen behavior.

Effective communication between parents and teens about substance use is crucial. Open discussions can help demystify cannabis and provide adolescents with accurate information about its effects and risks. Parents who engage in honest conversations about their own experiences with drugs—whether positive or negative—can help their children navigate the complexities of substance use. However, if parents avoid these discussions or provide mixed messages (e.g., expressing disapproval while using cannabis themselves), it can lead to confusion and increased risk-taking behavior among teens.

Parental monitoring refers to the extent to which parents are aware of their children’s activities, friends, and behaviors. Research suggests that active parental monitoring is associated with lower rates of adolescent substance use. When parents are engaged in their children’s lives—knowing who they spend time with and what they do—they can effectively mitigate risky behaviors, including drug use.

Perceptions vs. Reality: The Gap in Understanding

Discrepancies Between Parent and Teen Perceptions

One significant issue in the parent-teen dynamic is the discrepancy between how parents perceive their own monitoring efforts versus how teens perceive those efforts. Parents often believe they are effectively supervising their children, while teens may feel a lack of oversight or support. This gap can lead to increased risk for substance use; if teens perceive that their parents are unaware or unconcerned about their activities, they may be more likely to experiment with drugs like cannabis.

The Impact of Social Norms

Social norms play a critical role in shaping both parental attitudes and teen perceptions. In communities where cannabis use is normalized or accepted, parents may be more likely to adopt permissive attitudes toward its use. This acceptance can trickle down to adolescents, who may view cannabis as a benign substance rather than a potential risk factor for negative outcomes.

The Psychological Perspective: Identity Formation and Peer Influence

Adolescence is a time when individuals begin to form their identities and assert independence from their parents. As teens explore different aspects of themselves—including their values around drug use—they may be influenced by both parental attitudes and peer behaviors. If a teen perceives that their parents are accepting of cannabis, they may feel more inclined to experiment with it as part of their identity formation.

Peer influence is another significant factor affecting adolescent behavior regarding cannabis use. Teens are often more susceptible to peer pressure than adults; thus, if they perceive that their friends or social circles accept or engage in cannabis use, they may be more likely to follow suit. This effect can be exacerbated if parental attitudes toward cannabis align with those of peers.

Case Studies: Real-World Examples

Case Study 1: The Open-Minded Parent

In a study conducted in California—a state known for its progressive stance on cannabis—researchers found that adolescents whose parents openly discussed cannabis use tended to have healthier attitudes toward it. These discussions often included information about responsible use, potential risks, and legal implications. As a result, these teens were less likely to engage in risky behaviors associated with drug experimentation.

Case Study 2: The Disapproving Parent

Conversely, in regions where parental disapproval was prevalent but not accompanied by open dialogue about drug use, researchers noted an increase in secretive behavior among adolescents. Teens felt compelled to hide their experimentation with drugs from disapproving parents, leading to a lack of communication about risks associated with cannabis use.

 Implications for Prevention Strategies

Given the strong link between parental attitudes and adolescent behavior regarding cannabis use, family-based interventions can be an effective strategy for prevention. Programs that encourage open communication between parents and teens about substance use can help demystify cannabis and provide accurate information about its effects.

Public health campaigns aimed at educating parents about the importance of monitoring and discussing substance use with their children can also be beneficial. These campaigns can provide resources for parents on how to approach conversations about drugs like cannabis without judgment or stigma.

Engaging communities in conversations about drug use norms can help shift perceptions around cannabis. By fostering environments where open dialogue is encouraged—both within families and among peers—communities can create supportive networks that promote healthy choices among adolescents.

Conclusion

Understanding how teens view cannabis is essential for developing effective prevention strategies aimed at reducing adolescent substance use. Parental attitudes toward cannabis significantly influence these perceptions; thus, fostering open communication between parents and teens is crucial. By addressing discrepancies in perceptions between parents and adolescents, promoting education around responsible drug use, and engaging communities in supportive dialogues about substance use norms, we can create an environment that encourages healthy decision-making among young people.

As society continues to navigate the complexities surrounding cannabis legalization and cultural acceptance, it remains imperative that we prioritize family dynamics in discussions about drug use. By empowering parents with knowledge and encouraging open communication within families, we can help shape healthier attitudes toward substances like cannabis among future generations.

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In a shocking turn of events that has garnered international attention, a 64-year-old Canadian citizen, Maurice Kevin O’Rourke, has been sentenced to life in prison in Dubai for possessing medical marijuana. This case raises significant questions about the intersection of drug laws, medical needs, and the rights of individuals traveling internationally. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, this incident highlights the stark differences in legal frameworks across countries and the potential consequences for those who inadvertently find themselves on the wrong side of the law.

The Case of Maurice Kevin O’Rourke

Maurice Kevin O’Rourke, a resident of Ontario, Canada, was traveling through Dubai International Airport when he was arrested in July 2023. His journey took a drastic turn when customs officials discovered CBD oil and cannabis in his luggage. O’Rourke had been using these substances to manage his health condition—Addison’s disease—a rare disorder that affects the adrenal glands and can lead to severe health complications if not properly managed.

Despite his medical needs, O’Rourke faced the full brunt of Dubai’s stringent drug laws. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, including those that may be legally prescribed in other countries. This strict enforcement means that even trace amounts of illegal substances can result in severe penalties, including long prison sentences.

The Legal Landscape in Dubai

The UAE is known for its tough stance on drug-related offenses. The country’s legal framework categorizes various substances into different classes, with severe penalties for possession, trafficking, and use. While many countries are moving towards more lenient policies regarding cannabis—especially for medical use—the UAE maintains a strict prohibition.

Under UAE law, possession of any amount of illegal drugs can lead to imprisonment. The penalties become increasingly severe based on the quantity found and whether the individual has prior convictions. In O’Rourke’s case, the discovery of cannabis and CBD oil led to a life sentence, which is one of the harshest penalties under the law.

 Health Implications for O’Rourke

O’Rourke’s health condition complicates his situation significantly. Addison’s disease requires careful management through medication and lifestyle adjustments. Those suffering from this condition often experience fatigue, muscle weakness, and low blood pressure. The stress of incarceration can exacerbate these symptoms and lead to further health complications.

Reports from O’Rourke’s family indicate that his health has deteriorated since his imprisonment. He has faced inadequate medical care while incarcerated, raising concerns about his well-being and ability to manage his condition effectively. Advocates for O’Rourke argue that his medical needs should have been taken into consideration during his trial and sentencing.

Public Reaction and Advocacy

The sentencing of Maurice Kevin O’Rourke has sparked outrage among advocates for drug policy reform and human rights organizations. Many are calling attention to what they see as an excessively harsh punishment for someone who was using cannabis for legitimate medical purposes.

Organizations such as the Canadian Drug Policy Coalition have voiced their support for O’Rourke and have urged the Canadian government to intervene on his behalf. They argue that international travelers should not be penalized for using substances that are legal in their home countries, especially when those substances are used for medical reasons.

Public sentiment in Canada has also been largely sympathetic toward O’Rourke. Many Canadians view his case as emblematic of broader issues related to drug policy reform and the need for more compassionate approaches to individuals with medical needs.

The Role of the Canadian Government

As O’Rourke appeals his life sentence—with a hearing scheduled for December 25, 2023—the role of the Canadian government becomes crucial. While Canada has legalized cannabis at the federal level since 2018, its citizens traveling abroad must navigate vastly different legal landscapes.

The Canadian government has expressed concern over O’Rourke’s situation but has limited options when it comes to intervening in another country’s legal system. Diplomatic efforts may be necessary to advocate for a more lenient sentence or alternative solutions that prioritize O’Rourke’s health needs.

International Perspectives on Cannabis Use

O’Rourke’s case also highlights the growing divide between countries regarding cannabis use and regulation. In recent years, many nations have begun to recognize the medicinal properties of cannabis and have implemented policies allowing its use under certain conditions. Countries like Canada, several U.S. states, Uruguay, and parts of Europe have embraced legalization or decriminalization efforts.

Conversely, regions like the Middle East maintain strict prohibitions against cannabis use. This disparity creates challenges for travelers who may unknowingly violate local laws while seeking necessary medical treatments back home.

The Appeal Process

As Maurice Kevin O’Rourke prepares to appeal his life sentence, several factors will likely come into play during the process:

1. Legal Representation

O’Rourke will require competent legal representation familiar with UAE law and experienced in handling drug-related cases. A skilled attorney can help navigate the complexities of the legal system and advocate effectively on behalf of their client.

1. Medical Evidence

Given that O’Rourke was using cannabis for medical purposes, presenting credible medical evidence will be crucial during the appeal process. Documentation from healthcare professionals regarding his Addison’s disease and treatment history could bolster his case by demonstrating that he was not using drugs recreationally but rather as part of a necessary health regimen.

1. Public Support

Public opinion can sometimes influence legal proceedings, especially in high-profile cases like O’Rourke’s. Continued advocacy from human rights organizations and public figures may help draw attention to his plight and encourage a more favorable outcome during his appeal.

Potential Outcomes

While it is difficult to predict how O’Rourke’s appeal will unfold, several outcomes are possible:

1. Reduced Sentence

One potential outcome could be a reduced sentence if the appeals court finds mitigating circumstances surrounding O’Rourke’s situation. This could involve acknowledging his medical condition and considering it as a factor in determining an appropriate penalty.

1. Alternative Sentencing

Another possibility is that the court might opt for alternative sentencing measures rather than life imprisonment. This could include probation or mandatory rehabilitation programs focusing on education about drug laws rather than punitive measures.

1. Extradition or Diplomatic Resolution

In some cases involving foreign nationals sentenced abroad, diplomatic negotiations can lead to extradition or other resolutions that allow individuals to serve their sentences in their home country under different conditions.

Conclusion

The case of Maurice Kevin O’Rourke, a 64-year-old Canadian citizen sentenced to life in a Dubai prison for possessing medical marijuana, starkly illustrates the complexities of global drug laws and their impact on individuals with legitimate medical needs; as he navigates the challenging appeal process amidst international advocacy and public support, it becomes essential to consider both the legal implications and humanitarian perspectives involved, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue about drug policy reform not only in Canada but also worldwide, particularly as more countries adopt progressive approaches to cannabis use; this situation highlights the importance of ensuring that individuals seeking relief from debilitating health conditions are not unduly punished while traveling abroad, and as we await further developments regarding O’Rourke’s appeal scheduled for December 25th, it is crucial for governments globally to recognize the necessity for compassion in drug enforcement policies, especially concerning individuals using medications legally prescribed by their healthcare providers at home.

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