How Medical Marijuana Helps Relieve Back Pain?

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Written By Steve Brandon

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February 18, 2025

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man suffering from back pain holding neck and back with text can medical cannabis help back pain

Back pain disrupts millions of lives daily—could medical cannabis be the natural solution? Medical marijuana has emerged as a promising alternative, offering natural pain relief with fewer side effects. Research supports its benefits, with a 2022 review finding cannabis effective for back pain with minimal side effects. Ongoing studies at the University of Colorado compare cannabis to oxycodone for chronic pain, while another study suggests THC provides short-term pain relief and CBD reduces tension. These findings highlight medical cannabis as a viable option for managing chronic back pain.

infographic explaining back pain and its impact on daily life

Does Back Pain Affect Men More?

Back pain is one of the leading causes of missed work and doctor visits across the United States. It can range from acute (lasting up to six weeks) to chronic (lasting longer than three months). Chronic back pain can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, making daily activities difficult. Fortunately, chronic pain and back pain are qualifying conditions for medical marijuana in several states, including Florida, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Arizona, and New York. Many patients turn to medical cannabis as an alternative to opioids or invasive treatments, finding relief through its anti-inflammatory and pain-modulating properties.

Men are more likely to experience chronic back pain due to factors such as physically demanding jobs, higher rates of spinal disc degeneration, and a reluctance to seek early medical care. Studies indicate that roughly 10% more men than women report work-related back injuries, particularly in labor-intensive industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

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What are the symptoms of Back Pain?

People suffering from back pain may experience:

Aching muscles: Persistent soreness and tension in the back muscles.
Sharp pain: Sudden, intense discomfort that may occur with movement.
Pain that radiates down the legs: Commonly associated with nerve compression or sciatica.
Increased pain with movement: Bending, lifting, or twisting may worsen discomfort.
Temporary relief when reclining: Pain may ease when lying down or resting.

elderly man with a list of back pain symptoms and causes

What are the Common Causes of Back Pain?

Back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Muscle or ligament strains: Overexertion, improper lifting, or sudden movements can strain muscles and ligaments.
Herniated or bulging discs: When spinal discs become damaged, they can press on nerves and cause pain.
Arthritis and osteoporosis: Degenerative conditions that weaken bones and joints, leading to chronic discomfort.
Spinal abnormalities or injuries: Conditions like scoliosis or trauma can contribute to persistent back pain.

Why Medical Marijuana is Effective for Back Pain?

Medical marijuana has emerged as an alternative treatment for chronic pain, helping patients reduce their reliance on addictive opioids. Cannabis can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being. Many patients using medical marijuana for back pain report:

Reduced pain levels: THC and CBD work with your body’s natural system to reduce pain and inflammation.
Less dependence on painkillers: Medical marijuana offers a non-addictive alternative to opioids.
Improved mood and decreased depression: Cannabis can help regulate mood and alleviate stress associated with chronic pain.
Better sleep and reduced anxiety: Many patients experience improved sleep patterns and reduced anxiety symptoms.

Which Pain Management Option Is Better Medical Marijuana or Traditional Medications?

Feature	Medical Marijuana	Traditional Medications (Opioids/NSAIDs)
Pain Relief Mechanism	Engages the endocannabinoid system to reduce pain and inflammation	Blocks pain signals; NSAIDs reduce inflammation
Risk of Addiction	Low (when used responsibly)	High risk (especially with opioids)
Side Effects	Mild (e.g., dry mouth, dizziness)	Gastrointestinal issues, liver toxicity, sedation, risk of overdose
Onset & Duration	Fast-acting (inhalation); longer-lasting (edibles/tinctures)	Quick onset; duration varies; risk of rebound pain (opioids)
Additional Benefits	Supports sleep, mood, and anxiety reduction	Primarily targets pain, with minimal additional benefits
Integration with Natural Therapies	Complements holistic approaches like exercise and mindfulness	Typically used alone or with other medications

What are the different ways to take Medical Marijuana?

There are several ways to consume medical marijuana, and the best method depends on personal preference and pain severity:

Inhalation (smoking or vaping): Offers fast relief but wears off quickly.
Edibles: It takes longer to take effect but provides extended relief.
Topicals: Applied directly to the affected area for localized pain relief.
Tinctures and oils: Can be taken sublingually for a balance of quick and long-lasting effects.

Which Marijuana Strains Are Best for Back Pain Relief?

Different marijuana strains work in different ways, depending on the person and symptoms. Strains high in THC are best for pain relief, while CBD-rich strains help with inflammation. However, THC can cause stronger psychoactive effects. A low THC/high CBD strain is better for daytime use to stay alert, while a high THC/low CBD strain is ideal for nighttime relaxation.

Here are some cannabis strains that may help with back pain:

Bubba Kush (Indica) – Up to 22% THC, 0.1% CBD. Helps reduce stress and muscle spasms.
Candyland (Sativa) – Around 24% THC, 1% CBD/CBN. Eases muscle tension, reduces pain, and boosts energy.
OG Kush (Indica) – Up to 23% THC, 1% CBD. Good for muscle spasms and pain relief.
ACDC (Sativa) – High CBD (24%), low THC (1.2%). Provides pain relief without strong psychoactive effects, making it great for daytime use.

These strains may help relieve back pain while keeping you comfortable and functional.

How to Get a Medical Marijuana Card for Back Pain?

If you’re considering medical marijuana as a treatment for chronic back pain, you can easily obtain your medical marijuana card through My MMJ Doctor. We provides a simple and hassle-free consultation process with licensed medical professionals who can evaluate your condition and determine if you qualify for medical cannabis. Follow these steps to get started:

Book an Online Consultation: Schedule an appointment with a licensed medical marijuana doctor through My MMJ Doctor.
Medical Evaluation: During your consultation, a physician will assess your medical history and symptoms to determine if you qualify for medical marijuana.
Receive Your Recommendation: If approved, you’ll receive a medical marijuana recommendation, which is required to apply for your card.
Apply for Your Card: Submit your recommendation and application to your state’s medical marijuana program.

image of a medical marijuana card from mymmjdoctor with the heading 'want access to marijuana mmj card' and a button that says 'apply today'

Conclusion

For many men dealing with chronic back pain, medical marijuana offers a safe, natural alternative to traditional pain medications. When combined with lifestyle changes and natural pain relief methods such as exercise, physical therapy, and mindfulness, you can experience a significant improvement in your quality of life. With fewer side effects and a lower risk of addiction, cannabis not only manages pain but also enhances overall well-being.

By choosing medical marijuana through My MMJ Doctor, you can take the first step toward a comprehensive, holistic approach to pain management.

FAQs

Does back pain qualify for medical marijuana?
In many states and countries with medical marijuana programs, chronic or severe back pain may qualify as a condition for obtaining a medical marijuana card. Eligibility depends on local regulations, so it’s best to check with a licensed doctor.

How long does medical marijuana take to relieve back pain?
The time it takes for medical marijuana to relieve back pain depends on the method of consumption:
- Inhalation (Smoking/Vaping): Effects start within 1–15 minutes and last 2–4 hours.
- Edibles (Gummies, Capsules): Effects take 30 minutes to 2 hours to kick in but last 6–8 hours.
- Tinctures (Sublingual Use): Relief begins in 15–45 minutes, lasting 4–6 hours.
- Topicals (Creams, Balms): Provides localized relief within 10–30 minutes, lasting several hours.

The strain, THC/CBD ratio, dosage, and individual metabolism also affect how quickly and effectively it works.

What CBD or cannabis is great for back pain?
CBD-rich strains offer anti-inflammatory benefits without strong psychoactive effects. If THC is preferred, balanced strains can provide stronger pain relief while still allowing for daily functionality.

How to Use Cannabis Oil for Back Pain?
- Sublingual Use: Place a few drops under your tongue, hold for 30–60 seconds, then swallow.
- Topical Application: Apply directly to the painful area and massage gently.
- Mix with Lotion: Add a few drops to your regular pain relief cream for better absorption.
- Add to Food or Drinks: Mix with tea, smoothies, or meals for slow, long-lasting relief.