Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints. Some of the common arthritic symptoms are joint pain, stiffness, warmth, immobilization, and loss of range of motion, fatigue and inadequate blood flow. Two of the main types of arthritis are Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). With Osteoarthritis, wear and tear damages the cartilage in the joints and causes friction between the bones rubbing together. Injury or infection usually causes Rheumatoid Arthritis. RA is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own lining of the joints and membranes; this results in painful swelling and inflammation.
When arthritis affects the neck, back, hands, feet or hips, difficulties arise when trying to get through even the most menial daily tasks. The surrounding muscles begin to tighten as they try to overcompensate for the pain and protect the injured area. These tight muscles can create tension headaches and impinged range of motion. Most people may find that there is little to no relief with over the counter NSAID’s like ibuprofen.
Medical Marijuana
Dr. Gregory Sonn has been studying and working with medical marijuana for years. He reports very effective results for numerous disorders and disease states, including patients with arthritis.
Dr. Sonn, explained, “Our brain and nerve cells have cannabinoid receptors, so our bodies naturally react to cannabis (medical marijuana). The structure of cannabis interacts directly with our cells. Our natural endocannabinoid system works synergistically with medical marijuana, creating a
multitude of beneficial reactions in the body. The endocannabinoid cells have tiny receptors that take in chemicals and produce responses. This natural system in our bodies regulates things like mood, sleeping, immunity, pleasure, memory and much more.”
Here, in Florida, the highly regulated products are “green flower” that has been heated through convection (no burning) and usually put into vaporized capsules, sublingual tablets, oils, tinctures or other means for the patient’s convenience. There are different levels of medical marijuana, some with higher TCH, some with very low TCH depending on the disease being treated.
In Florida, we have vertical medical marijuana treatment centers (MMTC), or dispensaries. This means the same company that clones the plants is responsible for putting the product into your hands. It’s highly controlled and runs very efficiently.”
Patrick Stewart’s Personal MM Results
In further widespread reports touting the benefits of medical marijuana, according to Mashable.com, they interviewed Sir Patrick Stewart, and he vehemently supports the effectiveness of medical marijuana for his arthritis.
Here is what the dignified actor had to say about its efficacy, “Two years ago, in Los Angeles, I was examined by a doctor and given a note which gave me legal permission to purchase, from a registered outlet, cannabis-based products, which I was advised might help the ortho-arthritis in both my hands,” Patrick said in a statement. “This, it would seem, is a genetically-based condition. My mother had badly distorted and painful hands.
I purchased an ointment, spray, and edibles. The ointment, while providing some relief from the discomfort, was too greasy to use during daytime and so I only use it at night.
It helps with sleep as the pain was reduced. The spray, however, is much more usable and I spray my fingers and particularly my thumb joints several times a day. The spray very quickly evaporates and leaves my hands quite dry, though with a slight burning or tingling sensation, which is not unpleasant. I believe that the ointment and spray have significantly reduced the stiffness and pain in my hands.
I have had no negative side effects from this treatment and the alternative would have been to continue taking NSAID’s, Advil, Aleve, and Naproxen, which are known to be harsh on the liver and to cause acid reflux. This is an important step forward for Britain in a field of research that has for too long been held back by prejudice, fear, and ignorance. I believe this programme of research might result in benefits for people like myself as well as millions of others.”
Dr. Gregory Sonn
You must visit a Physician that is licensed to recommend medical marijuana. To legally purchase and consume medical marijuana in Florida, the person must have one of the specific qualifying medical conditions regulated by the government or have a medical condition that is deemed as appropriate. Dr. Sonn is exceptionally adept and knowledgeable in this practice, drawing from his vast experience as a Palliative Care physician and Family Practitioner.
If you or someone you know is suffering from arthritis or would like to find out more about Dr. Sonn and his practice, please visit IonaCannabisClinic.com or call (239) 689-6819.
