Pain is one of the most common reasons people seek out medical cannabis. In fact, research from the National Academies of Sciences indicates that up to 80% of patients turn to cannabis specifically to manage pain, including that associated with conditions like cancer. As science continues to catch up with patient experiences, we now have a clearer understanding of how and why cannabis helps with pain management.
Why Cannabis Can Be Effective for Pain
Cannabis works in the body primarily through compounds called cannabinoids—like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). These molecules interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors and signaling chemicals that help maintain balance (homeostasis) across major systems such as the nervous system, immune system, and gastrointestinal tract.
When the ECS becomes depleted—whether due to stress, chronic illness, or other factors—plant-based cannabinoids can help restore balance. THC, for example, binds to receptors in the brain involved in pain signaling, helping to dull pain perception. It also activates opioid receptors, which may further enhance its pain-relieving effects. CBD works differently, helping reduce inflammation and interacting with serotonin receptors, which may alter how pain is felt and processed.
Together, THC and CBD often offer the best results for pain—especially when used in combination with other cannabinoids like CBG.
What the Research Shows
Emerging studies have shown that cannabis can help increase pain tolerance and reduce the emotional burden of chronic pain. One study found that medical cannabis users reported a 64% reduction in opioid use, while another revealed improved outcomes among patients over 75 using cannabis for chronic pain.
Other findings suggest that cannabinoids like CBD and CBDA can reduce inflammation and improve sleep, mood, and appetite—indirectly improving pain levels and overall quality of life.
How to Use Cannabis for Pain
Medical cannabis comes in a variety of formats to suit different needs and preferences:
- Tinctures
- Capsules or tablets
- Gummies (where legal)
- Vapes or flower
- Transdermal patches
- Topicals and concentrates
Inhaled forms such as vape or flower provide quick relief for breakthrough pain, while oral or transdermal products offer longer-lasting effects. Many patients benefit from using a combination of both.
Choosing the Right Strain and Ratio
Finding the right THC-to-CBD ratio is highly personal and may take some trial and error. New patients may want to start with low-THC strains (around 10%) and gradually increase the dose. Balanced formulas—such as 1:1 or 1:5 THC:CBD—are often ideal for pain without strong psychoactive effects.
Potential Benefits of Cannabinoids
Cannabis for Pain Relief in Utah
Medical cannabis is legal in Utah for qualifying conditions, including chronic pain. Patients must first obtain a recommendation from a Qualified Medical Provider (QMP) and register through the Utah Department of Health. Legal formats in Utah currently include tinctures, capsules, concentrates, transdermal patches, gelatinous cubes/edibles, and flower— Nervana Medical’s QMP can help provide cannabis certifications for patients seeking medical cannabis for qualifying conditions.
Long-lasting options such as tinctures or gelatinous cubes are ideal for baseline relief, while vaporized flower can help with fast-acting needs.
We ALWAYS recommend starting low, and going slow. We also recommend keeping CBD oil on hand as it can counteract the THC “high” feeling.
Methods of Cannabis Consumption
| Method | Onset | Duration | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vape Cartridges | Immediate | 1 to 3 hours | – Quickest onset – Easier to use than vaporizing flower | – May contain lower levels of cannabinoids – Dependent on extraction method and processor |
| Edibles (Gel cubes, tablets, capsules) | 1.5 to 2 hours | 6 to 8 hours | – Stronger, longer-lasting effects – Ease of dosing | – Delayed onset – Overconsumption is a risk—Start low, go slow |
| Tinctures, Oral Sprays, Sublingual Drops | 0.5 to 1 hour | 2 to 6 hours | – Easy to use and titrate dose – Discreet and portable | – Slower onset if swallowed or mixed with food – Possible allergies to carrier oils |
| Topical Creams & Transdermal Patches | Immediate to 1 hour | 0.5 to 12 hours | – Localized pain relief without psychoactive effects – Extended relief | – Least potent overall – Use caution with allergies to carrier oils |
| Flower Vaporization | Immediate | 1 to 3 hours | – Immediate onset – Entourage effect | – Requires a vaporizer device – Higher initial investment |
Common Terpenes in Cannabis & Their Effects
| Terpene | Aroma | Potential Benefits | Also Found In |
|---|---|---|---|
| Myrcene | Earthy, musky, herbal | Sedative, anti-inflammatory, pain relief | Mangoes, hops, lemongrass |
| Limonene | Citrus (lemon, orange) | Mood elevation, anti-anxiety, antibacterial | Citrus fruits |
| Pinene | Pine | Alertness, memory retention, anti-inflammatory | Pine needles, rosemary |
| Linalool | Floral (lavender) | Calming, anti-anxiety, anti-depressant | Lavender |
| Caryophyllene | Peppery, spicy | Pain relief, anti-inflammatory, stress relief | Black pepper, cloves |
| Humulene | Earthy, woody | Appetite suppressant, anti-inflammatory | Hops, basil |
Expert Guidance Is Available
If you’re new to medical cannabis or unsure where to start, consider booking a consultation with a certified medical provider who specializes in cannabinoid medicine. A personalized approach ensures safer, more effective use—especially when managing complex or chronic pain.
Ready to explore medical cannabis for pain relief in Utah ?
Contact Nervana Medical today to schedule your consultation or learn more about becoming a registered patient in Sandy, Draper, Riverton, Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake City and surrounding areas in Utah!
References
1. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Evidence and Recommendations for Research. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press; 2017.2. Vigli, D., Cosentino, L., Pellas, M., & De Filippis, B. (2021). Chronic Treatment with Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA) Reduces Thermal Pain Sensitivity in Male Mice and Rescues the Hyperalgesia in a Mouse Model of Rett Syndrome. Neuroscience, 453, 113–1233. De Vita MJ, Moskal D, Maisto SA, Ansell EB. Association of Cannabinoid Administration With Experimental Pain in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry. 2018;75(11):1118–1127.
4. Boehnke KF, Litinas E, Clauw DJ. Medical cannabis use is associated with decreased opiate medication use in a retrospective cross-sectional survey of patients with chronic pain. J Pain. 2016;17:739-744.5. Cassels C. Medical cannabis safe, effective in the elderly. Medscape. www.medscape.com/viewarticle/912624. May 6, 2019. Accessed January 13, 2020.