Treating Degenerative Arthropathy – The Benefits of Medical Marijuana

Over the years, medical cannabis has become widely accepted in the treatment of different illnesses, degenerative arthropathy inclusive. There are shreds of evidences that medical marijuana could be effective in treating the pain associated or caused by degenerative arthropathy. 

This assertion can be backed by the fact that several studies have revealed the anti-pain properties of medical marijuana. One of such studies that was published in the European Journal of Pain revealed that CBD, which is one of the most powerful compounds of medical marijuana could reduce both pain and inflammation.

Degenerative arthropathy, which is also known as osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, which affects an estimated 30 million Americans. It usually occurs when the joint cartilage and underlying joint begin to deteriorate, thereby causing pain, stiffness as well as joint malformation. Even though this condition can affect any joint, it mostly develops in the weight-bearing joints including the knees, hips and spine, as well as the joints in the hands, feet, shoulder and neck. One of the major signs of degenerative arthropathy is pain and stiffness. The pain associated with this condition typically intensifies after activities and it’s often relieved by rest.

Meanwhile, joint stiffness is common in the morning hours, but typically improve within 30 minutes of moving around. It should be noted that inactivity during the day could also result in stiffness and could even cause the locking of joints in some people. Crepitus is another common symptom of degenerative arthropathy, which often occurs in the wrist, fingers, elbow, and ankle. Crepitus is simply a condition in which the joints make popping and crackling noises with movement.

Sometimes, the progression of degenerative arthropathy could affect the sufferer’s gait and posture, thereby resulting in instability and a decreased range of motion. When this disease becomes advanced, it can also cause visible malformation in the joints, particularly around the fingers.

Degenerative arthropathy could be caused by a number of reasons, some of which include a joint injury, a congenital misalignment of bones, obesity, loss of muscle strength to support the joint, any disease that causes damage to joint tissue or bone, as well as neurological disorders associated with uncoordinated movements.

Degenerative Arthropathy is not reversible and that explains why the treatment is geared towards managing the symptoms, restoring/maintaining function, as well as slowing down its progression. The treatment options typically include lifestyle changes, physical therapies, joint injections, as well as certain medications known as COX-2 inhibitors. In more advanced stages, surgical procedures may be done to improve the quality of life of the patient.