In order to find out if marijuana reduces symptoms in fibromyalgia patients, an open clinical study with 56 patients was carried out in Spain. The study group were comprised of 28 regular cannabis users and 28 patients who didn’t use marijuana. All patients completed a total of three questionnaires relating to their fibromyalgia symptoms and their quality of life.
What is Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome – that is, it is a group of signs and symptoms which when experienced in combination suggest that the patient is suffering from a specific medical condition. As with many syndromes, the symptoms of fibromyalgia come and go and vary between patients. Some life factors can bring on symptoms or make existing ones worse, for instance:
- Changes in the weather
- Stress levels
- Physical activity
The main symptoms of Fibromyalgia
- Pain
- Extreme sensitivity to pain, so that just the slightest touch is experienced as being painful
- Stiffness
- Muscle spasms
- Extreme fatigue
- Poor quality sleep
- Brain fog (cognitive problems)
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Inability to regulate body temperature
- Restless legs syndrome
- Tinnitus
- Anxiety
- Depression
Study Results: Cannabis and Fibromyalgia
After 2 hours of cannabis use, visual analogue scales showed a statistically significant reduction of pain and stiffness, enhancement of relaxation, and an increase in somnolence and feeling of well being. Mental health scores in a questionnaire were higher in cannabis users than in non-users.
The Researchers concluded that “the use of cannabis was associated with beneficial effects on some Fibromyalgia symptoms.” They recommend that further studies on the usefulness of cannabinoids in Fibromyalgia
patients as well as cannabinoid system involvement in the pathophysiology of this condition are warranted.”
(Source: Fiz J, Durán M, Capellà D, Carbonell J, Farré M. Cannabis
use in patients with fibromyalgia: effect on symptoms relief and
health-related quality of life. PLoS One 2011;6(4):e18440.)
Medical marijuana can help with these conditions
Great site, actually going to take a look around for a bit. I’ve started my own blog, I guess as a way to cope. 10 years and only marginal results. Thanks for spreading the word! Without people talking about fibro/CFS we will be no closer to a cure or management of symptoms. Bookmarked!
I am in the beginning stages of newbie with Arizona Card to help treat symptoms of Fybromyalgia, Migraines, Tinnitus, Sleep Apnea, Chronic Myalgia, Acid Reflux, and stress. I am allowed to cultivate as well, but at this point only have a 10×13 room being modified to provide safe growing environment. I am reading lots about the medicine and so far after only 2 weeks, has been outstanding compared to the 40 medications I have had to deal with in the past decade!
Thank you for this great article about fibromyalgia.
I really can take benefit from it.
I have bookmarked this and i also am looking forward to reading new articles.
Keep up the great job!
Thanks!!!
A study of the topical lotions should be done as well. When in California, I used to by a sheabutter base that helped with some of the pain. In particular, the swelling of my hands and feet attributed the use of gabupentin. It also helps with some cramping and knee pain too.
If the cannibus can be concentrated the results would be tremendous.