{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/back-pain/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3761-markdown","title":"Top 7 Cannabis Topicals Across the United States","slug":"top-7-cannabis-topicals-across-the-united-states","content":"As we age, life can be full of aches and pains. The most common is lower back pain, but you may ache after a workout, suffer from arthritis, or you may feel pain associated from everyday wear and tear. Many people choose to take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, but there are some [unwanted side effects](https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5166-9368/ibuprofen-oral/ibuprofen-oral/details) if you take too much or consume too often.\n\n### Try a Weed Topical for Pain\n\nTopical marijuana is another, more natural solution for your aches and pains.  Weed-infused topicals come in body oils, creams, and salves, and can be applied directly to an area of pain. Whether you suffer from neuropathy, arthritis, inflammation, general soreness, or other conditions, cannabis topicals can provide \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.10.22 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_10_22_AM_aae4a6cd57.png)\n\nA transdermal patch is another topical method to consider. A patch is typically placed on the arm, wrist, or thigh and administers marijuana into the bloodstream. So, if the patch has a significant dose of THC, you may feel slightly altered.\n\n[Cannabis creams and balms](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-topicals-provide-relief-for-sore-muscles-and-pain) are absorbed through the skin and binding to the CB1 and CB2 receptors at the localized area of pain. THC and cannabidiol CBD, are cannabinoids within topicals that have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect on the body. \n\nIn addition to the cannabinoids, weed creams may contain other ingredients and essential oils that can help with pain relief, such as eucalyptus, camphor, menthol, cayenne, clove, and wintergreen.\n\n### Benefits of Marijuana-Infused Topicals\n\n[Topicals can be used to help](https://hellomd.com/articles/topicals-a-revelation-in-treating-pain-with-cannabis) for:\n\n- Inflammation\n- Chronic pain\n- Arthritis\n- Menstrual cramps\n- Sore muscles\n- Better sleep\n- Skin conditions\n\nWhile topicals can provide localized pain relief, they work best if they are a part of a broader self-care routine, which could include stretching, massage, brisk activity (like a walk), and meditation or mindfulness.\n\n### 7 Best Cannabis Topicals\n\nIf you're looking for the soothing effects of cannabis topicals, here are seven products worth trying:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.09.18 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_09_18_AM_4ee6d4e0a6.png)\n\n### 1. Avexia Pain Relief Balm Harmony 1:1\nContaining 100 mg each of THC and CBD, this Pain Relief Balm combines the cannabinoids with all-natural elements and essential oils. Blending THC and CBD in different ratios, the [Avexia product lines](https://verano.holdings/avexia/) include balms and lotions for pain and discomfort, an epsom salt soak for relaxation, and a line of microdose tablets suited to meet different consumer needs.\n\nAvexia Pain Relief Balm is carried by some dispensaries within the [Verilife chain](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu/verilife-river-north-il).  Locations are in the following states: Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania.\n\n!localized relief without getting you high.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.11.29 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_11_29_AM_0e1800a121.png)\n\n### 2.  Mary Medicinals Transdermal Compound\nThis is a [spot-specific transdermal balm](https://marysmedicinals.com/product/transdermal-compound/) designed to allow for much deeper penetration than traditional cannabis topicals. The balm features a 1:1 blend of CBD:THC, with 100mg total cannabinoids. It may take up to 15 minutes to feel the effect and lasts between three to five hours. \n\nIn Los Angeles, San Francisco, and the Bay Area, [Grass Door](https://grassdoor.com/product/transdermal-compound-1-1) offers same-day delivery of Mary Medicinals Transdermal Compound.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.14.46 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_14_46_AM_7dae045182.png)\n\n### 3. Sweet Releaf Comfort Topicals\nAvailable only in California, [Sweet Releaf](https://sweetreleaf.com/) is an award-winning family-and women-owned cannabis brand. Its formulations bring together Western science and Eastern holistic medicine to boost effectiveness. The ingredients are naturally and organically sourced, and the cannabis is sun-grown in the Emerald Triangle, and certified as squeaky clean.\n\nTheir topical products include Comfort Body Butter, Extra Strength, Cools Dry Oil, and Warms Dry Oil. They may soothe various pain, inflammation, and skin conditions.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.16.01 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_16_01_AM_73de7e9f16.png)\n\n### 4. Vertly Soothing Floral Face Mist\nChallenging you to boost your skincare routine with the hydrating power of organic botanicals, [Vertly's Soothing Floral Face Mist](https://vertlybalm.com/product/soothing-florals-face-mist/#1599691169170-005357a6-b8e5) serves up CBD along with such ingredients as calendula flower, aloe, lavender, witch hazel, rose water, and jasmine oil.\n\nVertly's full-spectrum hemp extract is naturally filled with vitamins A, D and E, and includes a lot of essential fatty acids (Omega 3 and 6), enhancing skin health. Free shipping is offered on orders over $50.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.18.12 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_18_12_AM_da6a517de7.png)\n\n### 5. Blue Moon Hemp's CBD Topical Salves\nAvailable across the country by delivery, [Blue Moon Hemp's CBD Topical Salves](https://bluemoonhemp.com/product-category/cbd-salves/) are fast-acting and designed as a natural way to nourish sensitive skin, and support tired muscles and joints (from the outside in). \n\nThe Limonene salve boasts the citrus odor of its terpene and has anti-inflammatory properties, penetrating deep into the tissue to soothe aching joints and sore muscle tissue. \n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.19.23 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_19_23_AM_bed2c7c746.png)\n\n### 6. Dixie Synergy Relief Balm\nAvailable in Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, and California, [Synergy Relief Balm](https://dixieelixirs.com/product/synergy-relief-balm/) fuses CBD and THC in a 1:1 ratio. Dixie claims their products have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help with pain and may also be helpful in relieving neuropathic conditions.\n\nOther ingredients include infused olive fruit oil, beeswax, castor seed oil, cocoa seed butter, rosemary oil, lavender flower oil, cedar wood oil, and pine needle oil.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-14 at 10.20.11 AM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_14_at_10_20_11_AM_6c1fb2403c.png)\n\n### 7. Envy CBD Face Mask\n\nEnjoy the pampering of a [face mask](https://envycbd.com/?rfsn=4644066.f1e81c&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=4644066.f1e81c&correlationId=b752dbeb-5983-452d-a16d-2d1236949035) containing 10 mg of full-spectrum CBD per sheet. Other ingredients include licorice root extract, rosemary flower extract, and green tea leaf extract, all which are known for their antioxidant and hydrating properties. It may sounds strange but a CBD mask can help relieve tension from facial muscles and even help soothe the jaw pain associated with TMJ.\n\nThe Envy CBD mask was created to \"soften the face, preserve the natural beauty, and protect against the natural progression of age.\"\n\n### What You Need to Know About Cannabis and Health Issues\nIf you want to know more about cannabis products, including topicals, and health issues, HelloMD is your one-stop source for reliable information and advice from trusted medical professionals.\n\nWe can also help you [get your medical card](https://hellomd.com/get-started/) in some states, so you can legally buy medical marijuana to help with your health condition.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/14b42/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/f836f/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/2244e/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 400w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/14b42/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 800w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/47498/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/0e329/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/4b876/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.jpg 5378w","srcWebp":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/58556/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/61e93/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/1f5c5/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 400w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/58556/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 800w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/99238/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 1200w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/7c22d/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 1600w,\n/static/f92b65f5c4b808df8297c531205b9581/a8c9f/3ee5acf8156263126939bc4355533bc7.webp 5378w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3086-markdown","title":"How CBD May Help Ease a Common Type of Back Pain: Sciatica","slug":"how-cbd-may-help-ease-a-common-type-of-back-pain-sciatica","content":"You start your day with a burning and tingling sensation running down your back and leg. At first, it’s more annoying than painful. But as time passes, the pain doesn’t seem to be getting any better, and it’s actually getting worse. Why is your back hurting?\n\nThere could be many reasons for your back pain, including:\n\n* Diabetes\n* Prolonged sitting\n* Weight\n* Age\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nBack pain can come in many forms and you should consult a doctor on what you’re experiencing. One type of back pain is sciatica. And it’s becoming more common recently because of the prolonged sitting required for most of the workforce today. \n\nIf not treated properly, sciatica can have a serious effect on your health. But many folks don’t want to go down the route of heavy-duty pain killers, which can have a list of serious side effects. That’s why many are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) to see if it can help reduce the pain and inflammation brought on by sciatica. \n\nRELATED: [HOW CANNABIS CAN HELP BEAT BACK PAIN](https://hellomd.com/articles/how-cannabis-can-help-beat-back-pain/)\n\n### What Is Sciatica Pain?\n\n[A problem with the sciatic nerves](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435) is what causes sciatica pain in the first place. A sciatic nerve runs from your lower back down the back of each leg. When the nerve becomes injured or there’s too much pressure placed on the nerve, the pain will spread from your hip, buttocks and leg. \n\nIn severe cases, you may need surgery, but the good news is that in most cases people recover from sciatica without surgery.\n\n### What Are the Symptoms of Sciatica?\n\nCommon symptoms of sciatica include:\n\n* Hip pain\n* Lower back pain\n* Pain in the back of the leg that can worsen when sitting\n* A shooting pain that can make it difficult to stand up\n* Weakness, numbness or difficulty moving your leg\n* A burning or tingling sensation down the leg\n\nUsually, sciatica affects only one side of your lower body. The pain extends from the lower back all the way down through the leg and the pain can even reach as far as your toes.\n\n### How to Lessen Sciatica Pain\n\nBefore you start to treat your sciatica, you should consult a doctor before proceeding. But here are a few ways to protect your back:\n\n* **Exercise**: Keeping your back strong and paying attention to your core muscles can be beneficial for future pain prevention. \n \n* **Posture and good body mechanics**: Standing or sitting for long periods of time can be very stressful on your body. [But using good posture techniques can help with your sciatica](https://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/ss/slideshow-posture-tips).\n\nBoth of these ways to treat your sciatica are great, but unfortunately are more for future prevention. If you’re in need of more immediate relief for your sciatica you may want to try CBD products such as tinctures and topicals.\n\n### Can CBD Help With Sciatica Pain Relief? \n\nThe popularity of CBD as a medicinal, dietary and wellness supplement has increased rapidly in recent years. CBD is already being researched and taken by folks suffering from:\n\n* Insomnia\n* Epilepsy\n* Anxiety\n* Pain\n\nThere are [two types of pains that are typical of sciatica: neuropathic and nociceptive](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319895.php). Research has suggests that CBD can help ease both types of pain—but how? \n\n### CBD & the Endocannabinoid System\n\nCBD is a molecule that interacts with the [CB1 and CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system (ECS)](https://hellomd.com/articles/is-your-endocannabinoid-system-in-balance/). The ECS is a network of receptors found throughout the body that helps regulate processes like:\n\n* Sleep\n* Mood\n* Appetite\n* Memory\n* Reproduction and fertility\n\nThe two main endocannabinoid receptors are:\n\n* CB1 receptors, which are mainly found in the central nervous system.\n* CB2 receptors, which are typically found in your peripheral nervous system and immune cells\n\nThough we still don’t have a clear picture of how CBD works, researchers think that it interacts with these receptors and other components of the ECS to relieve pain and inflammation. \n\n### CBD & Inflammation\n\nSciatica causes pain and stress in your lower back, hips and legs. This will cause inflammation in those areas of the body. Taking CBD may help to significantly reduce inflammation and ease some of the pain.\n\n### How to Consume CBD for Sciatica Pain Relief\n\n[CBD tinctures are oils that most people take sublingually—under the tongue](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-tinctures-what-they-are-and-why-you-want-them/). You can simply place the drops under your tongue for about 30–60 seconds (or longer if you can) and swallow. \n\nThe CBD oil enters your bloodstream, primarily through the capillaries in your mouth. This is why most people feel the effects from tinctures quicker than, say, edibles, typically within 15–20 minutes. \n\nIt’s important to note that everyone has a different tolerance to CBD and you should always start off with a low dosage and increase as you see fit. \n\n[CBD topicals are lotions or salves you rub onto the affected area of your body](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/what-high-tch-topical-can-you-recommend/). CBD topicals should give you immediate relief to the specific area where you apply it. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly after applying on the affected area—especially if the topical you’re using contains other ingredients like menthol. \n\nRelief via CBD topicals typically only lasts a few hours. That being said, a few hours of being pain-free can be a beautiful thing.\n\nCBD is a great alternative for seeking sciatica pain relief. It’s not a cure, but it can put you on the right path to recovery. It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor for more advice before you start working CBD into your sciatica treatment plan.\n\nPhoto credit: SOPRADIT/Shutterstock.com\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/14b42/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/f836f/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg 200w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/2244e/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg 400w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/14b42/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg 800w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/47498/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg 1200w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/0e329/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg 1600w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/391cf/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.jpg 1772w","srcWebp":"/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/58556/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/61e93/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp 200w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/1f5c5/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp 400w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/58556/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp 800w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/99238/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp 1200w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/7c22d/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp 1600w,\n/static/fc30c2970998144f055fc7a66d2597f1/edb99/c5481c2b79bbdcf923b494bc9f63d765.webp 1772w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2588-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Can Help Beat Back Pain","slug":"how-cannabis-can-help-beat-back-pain","content":"In our series for cannabis newcomers, we’ve been exploring how patients have successfully used cannabis to treat a variety of conditions. In this article, we look at using cannabis to treat back pain, an incredibly common, debilitating condition. In fact, [back pain is the most common cause of job-related disability, and 80% of adults will suffer from it at some point in their lifetime](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Low-Back-Pain-Fact-Sheet#3102_3).\n\nWhether the pain is from an injury, a genetic condition, inflammation, infection or something else, having back pain can turn everyday tasks into daunting challenges. For some, it can be a life-altering condition. Thankfully, both research and anecdotal accounts suggest that cannabis can help alleviate back pain.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Kat’s Success Using CBD for Back Pain\n\nFifty-year-old Kat suffers from fibromyalgia and severe back pain. Over the past few years, Kat’s back pain has become debilitating.\n\n\"I'm to the point where I really can't hold down a regular job,” she explains. “I have to lay flat on the ground every couple of hours because my back hurts so bad.” \n\nWhile working a regular job is no longer an option, Kat still needs to function for part-time work and her most important job: being a mom. She says that cannabis, specifically high cannabidiol (CBD) cannabis, has been crucial in managing her pain and helping her function.\n\n“Cannabis has helped me in a lot of different ways,” she says. “I do lot of yoga and stretching. But if I can do that in combination with some CBD, it gives total relief… and then I’m better for a while.”\n\nKat is careful to mention that not all cannabis has had the same benefits for her. She says she’s tried different types of cannabis, and that high tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) strains seemed to make her more anxious. ”When I found CBD, [I realized] that's the main thing that helps me,” she says. “CBD is where it's at for me.”\n\n### Travis Also Finds Success Using Cannabis for Back Pain \n\nAnother patient, Travis, says his back pain eased significantly with the use of cannabis. The 27-year-old says his life changed in the blink of an eye when he got into a car accident that left him severely injured. Travis sustained injuries to his upper back, neck and shoulders, all of which quickly ended his career in construction.\n\n“I just wasn't able to do heavy lifting or swing a hammer on a regular basis,” he says. “I had to change jobs from construction to working in a coffee shop. I was making a lot less money and working less hours.”\n\nThat’s when Travis decided to give medical cannabis a try, first with CBD tinctures and capsules made by a friend. “It started helping me a little with my aches.” he says. “When I started smoking, it helped a little more.”\n\nTravis says he prefers this natural method of pain relief to the aspirin he’d been taking before. He adds that cannabis doesn’t completely relieve his pain, but it seems to calm and relax him in a way that makes the pain more bearable and less noticeable. \n\nEventually, cannabis began to help Travis so much that he was able to go back to working the construction job that he’d before. This shift back to the career he’d been passionate about has been great for Travis. “It’s a career, instead of just a job at a coffee shop,” he says. Cannabis made all the difference.\n\n### The Science of Cannabis & Back Pain\n\n[Studies say that up to 97% of cannabis patients use the plant for pain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3998228/). Research also points to cannabis as a potent painkiller. Cannabis can help treat back pain by stimulating the body's natural pain reliever: the endocannabinoid system. This system sends quick and potent pain relief to injured areas, and can be stimulated by some of the chemicals in cannabis, such as THC.\n\nCannabis offers a safer and more natural route of pain relief for patients dealing with chronic back pain, and patients often prefer this to the numbing and desensitized feelings that can come with traditional painkillers. In fact, in a study by UC Berkeley and HelloMD, [81% of patients reported that cannabis alone was more effective at relieving their pain than opioids were](http://online.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/can.2017.0012). Similar results were reported for patients using non-opioid painkillers. \n\n### Treating Back Pain With Cannabis \n\nPatients looking to use cannabis for back pain can choose from a large variety of options. Smoking or vaping cannabis can be very effective for this type of pain, but so can edibles, capsules, tinctures and topicals. THC-dominant varieties have been shown to help the most with pain, but high CBD options often help with fewer side effects. \n\nThere’s a lot of flexibility when it comes to treating pain with cannabis, so it’s often key for patients to explore their options to find the type of cannabis that fits their needs best.  \n\nIf you suffer from back pain and think cannabis might be right for you, the best first step is to talk to a doctor. You can [consult with one of HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/); it's easy, private and 100% online. \n\nIn the next installment of the Cannabis for Newbies guide, we’ll go over how cannabis can help ease insomnia.\n\nPhoto credit: [Valentin Lacoste](https://unsplash.com/@valentinlacoste)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/14b42/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/f836f/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg 200w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/2244e/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg 400w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/14b42/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg 800w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/47498/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/0e329/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg 1600w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/b2131/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.jpg 3000w","srcWebp":"/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/58556/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/61e93/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp 200w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/1f5c5/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp 400w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/58556/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp 800w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/99238/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp 1200w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/7c22d/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp 1600w,\n/static/cf39c3ad83000bdd179aa5e0782d4411/ab9f8/ec9b329377953bcea208321e32bbcc6c.webp 3000w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2578-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions About Marijuana & Back Pain Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-back-pain-answered","content":"If you suffer from back pain, you’re not alone. It’s estimated that 80% of Americans endure back pain of some kind. Doctors mostly prescribe opioids or other powerful pain-relieving medications, which can help, but often just mask the problem and can come with their own set of serious side effects. \n\nCannabis has proven to be an effective way to treat back pain for some. And with so many treatment options—topicals, tinctures, vape pens—people can find a protocol that fits their lifestyle.\n\nHere are our most popular Q&As about treating back pain with marijuana, with answers provided by doctors and cannabis professionals. As always, head over to our [Answers](www.hellomd.com/answers) if you have a question about medical marijuana for back pain, and our community will be happy to answer it for you.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: What do you recommend for back pain caused by a bulging disc incurred in an accident?\n\nAnswer: [@drraisen](https://www.hellomd.com/people/564e05ec3618f90008000088/drraisen) Take one dose a day of a CBD-only-tincture as a first-line therapy for the back pain.\n\n* See the article: https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/578da024fdc17e000700019d/micro-dosing-cannabis-stopped-my-chronic-pain \n* For more pain-relief, add a tincture of CBD/THC that is 50%/50% concentration.\n* For additional pain relief, use a vape pen with Canna Tsu, ACDC or Harlequin. These strains contain around 20% CBD. \n* Use topical cannabis in a lotion or cream to treat to areas of pain and inflammation, one to three times a day as needed; they can give you immediate relief.\n\nConsider nutrition-grade cannabis-infused edibles in 10mg THC dose for extended-duration pain relief as an alternative to NSAIDs and opiates. You can try a 20mg THC dose to promote sleep.\n\nThe edibles, will last a long time. REMEMBER, WITH ALL THE CANNABIS, START LOW, AND GO SLOW. \n\nBest of luck.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyrq11rNcL4`\n\n### Q: I suffer from upper cervical nerve/back pain. What product do you recommended? \n\nAnswer: [@drolson](https://www.hellomd.com/people/550c5a786336370003010000/drolson/questions/) The best cannabis treatment for neck and back pain from nerve inflammation would be a topical cannabis salve applied along the spine, frequently at first because it will block the nerve pain. \n\nIn a tie for first place I also include posture. Your body can't call you on the phone to scream at you, \"Stop pinching the nerves!\" So, it screams at you internally, but most people cover up the screaming with drugs, and that's when damage occurs. \n\nLearn to listen to your body and lift your spine up. It takes practice to learn to lift your spine and to build the strength in the supporting muscles, so I advise practicing yoga to learn body awareness and posture with core strengthening. \n\nMedications can give you relief, but please don't just treat the pain and not correct the posture. Adequate water intake and vitamin D3 are also necessary to keep the spine healthy. Vaporizing high-CBD cannabis is very effective in relieving pain, also.\n\nRELATED: [BACK PAIN, CANNABIS & DEHYDRATION](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57361295d8405a000c00003e/back-pain-cannabis-and-dehydration)\n\n### Q: What's the best product for back pain and muscle tightness?\n\nAnswer: [@lyp](https://www.hellomd.com/people/5507070036393300031b0000/lyp) Hi, we've got an article going over the best strains for back pain, which includes potent strains such as Headband, as well as higher CBD strains such as [ACDC](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57e1803d16ce30000b06ba0a/the-best-marijuana-strains-for-back-pain).\n\nYou may also want to consider a cannabis-infused topical to ease your pain. We've got a write-up going over the top 3 topicals for back pain: https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/589b56e47a547a0008f2c9ce/the-top-3-cannabis-topicals-for-back-pain though there are many more cannabis topicals on the market that you may find helpful. \n\nMy partner has a bulging disc in his lower back that he's been applying Farmaceuticals' High CBD balm on—and he's found pain relief with that particular product. Of course, it all depends on your biochemistry, whether a high-CBD topical is what you need. There are different ratios of CBD to THC available on the market, and you may need to experiment to see which is most effective for you. Hope this helps!\n\nPhoto credit: [Jairo Alzate](https://unsplash.com/photos/1CsfTx0DuLs)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/14b42/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/f836f/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/2244e/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 400w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/14b42/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 800w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/47498/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/0e329/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/b160c/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.jpg 2686w","srcWebp":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/58556/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/61e93/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/1f5c5/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 400w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/58556/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 800w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/99238/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 1200w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/7c22d/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 1600w,\n/static/97da22f5ae89a3836b1c5b3025e0de20/13bf9/43c65a60a1c7b2938fb50d7f4cd95f1a.webp 2686w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2252-markdown","title":"3 Popular Questions about Marijuana & Chronic Pain Answered","slug":"3-popular-questions-about-marijuana-and-chronic-pain-answered","content":"Chronic pain is one of the [top five conditions that cannabis treats effectively](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59b972438d45173d03753604/top-5-conditions-cannabis-treats-effectively). HelloMD and UC Berkeley recently released a study that found [97% of medical cannabis patients on pain medication felt cannabis provided enough relief to allow them to decrease their opioid use](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/595413ae914ae4001b40307a/hellomd-and-uc-berkeley-release-study-on-cannabis-use-as-a-substitute-for-opioid-and-non-opioid-based-pain-medication). Marijuana’s ability to successfully treat pain with few side effects, combined with its various methods of consumption, make it a great alternative to pharmaceutical medications. \n\nFor people interested in learning more about treating their chronic pain, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular questions about chronic pain and marijuana below. Our [Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) platform is also a good resource—you can reach out and ask questions to our community of cannabis users, which includes nurses and doctors. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Q: CBD vs. THC? What's the difference and which works better for pain?\n\nAnswer: @Didi\nThanks for asking this question as it does come up often. When addressing pain, the answer is that THC works far better for pain relief than just CBD alone. If fact, pain relief is the main effect that THC seems to deliver in whatever form it is taken. The raw form of THC, called THCA is also very good for inflammation which when applied results in pain relief as well.\nCBD on the other hand, is extremely good for seizures, muscle spasms, depression, anxiety, and also for inflammation. I have heard athletes say they tried pure CBD oil on neck pain & it didn't help but when using THC they got the pain relief they were looking for. A combination of THC & CBD is also a very good option.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFzrZj0IHs0`\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/58335d7c10dcd4000ca7dda3/cbd-vs-thc-what-s-the-difference-and-which-works-better-for-pain)\n\n### Q: What is the best medication for excruciating back pain? I need help fast!\n\nAnswer: @DrFryeDr\nChronic back pain, be it caused by neuropathy, inflammation, or muscle spasm, can be alleviated with medicinal cannabis. A variety with a 1:1 ratio of THC:CBD maximizes the analgesic, muscle-relaxing, and anti-inflammatory activity, reduces anxiety, and elevates the mood . Patients who use this ratio remain clear minded, focused, and productive without feeling high or stoned. Topical cannabis salves and lotions are also very effective in reducing or eliminating pain. For more severe back pain, a bit more THC can be pain-distracting. Meaning, while pain may still be present, the patient isn't \"bothered\" by it.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyrq11rNcL4`\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/576c67ea1a91ec0007000098/what-is-the-best-medication-for-excruciating-back-pain-i-need-help-fast)\n\nRELATED: [THE TOP 3 CANNABIS TOPICALS FOR BACK PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/589b56e47a547a0008f2c9ce/top-3-marijuana-topicals-for-back-pain)\n\n### Q: Can I use cannabis as a replacement for Vicodin?\n***I suffer from chronic back pain and have been using vicodin. However, my doctor has stated that I need to end my reliance on this drug, and I am looking for a replacement. Advill and others don't provide the relief I am looking for. What cannabis products might be a good choice for me?***\n\nAnswer: [@PerrySolomonMDChief](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000/perry-solomon-md)\nCannabis has had more and more positive feedback in people trying to cut down or eliminate their opioid use. Every day in the United States about 44 people die as result of opioid overdoses. There has never been a reported death from cannabis use. Donald Abrams, MD, a professor of medicine at University of California, San Francisco, has studied the effects of medical marijuana on pain since the mid-1990s. In 2011, he published a small study of 21 patients that found that the addition of marijuana to a twice-daily opioid regimen led to a 25 percent reduction in pain. It suggests cannabis could allow pain patients to lower their opioid dosage and still get pain relief.\n\nIt seems that patients can get short term pain relief from cannabis that contains only 1.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol (or THC), the ingredient that gives marijuana its psychotropic effects. Pot used for recreational purposes has 6 to 12 percent THC, but can go as high as 20 percent. A higher concentration of cannabidiol (CBD) mixed with a little THC seems to be the best bet for decreasing opioid use. There is one called “20:1,” named for its ratio of CBD to THC. \n\nThe fastest way to obtain relief is by smoking or vaping the cannabis product. Tinctures or capsules are effective as well as using an edible that can last the longest.\n\n`embed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6XviriBbciU`\n\n[Read more answers to this question.](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/571e4eac90a4f9000c000012/can-i-use-cannabis-as-a-replacement-for-vicodin)\n\nPhoto credit: [Jacob Postuma](https://unsplash.com/@jp_photography)\n\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/14b42/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/f836f/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/2244e/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 400w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/14b42/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 800w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/47498/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/a6974/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.jpg 1536w","srcWebp":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/58556/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/61e93/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/1f5c5/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 400w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/58556/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 800w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/99238/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 1200w,\n/static/0ed97f97f89556ad0b5d95fc56b99815/d5052/db595be94a5de6109d2f695714dba08c.webp 1536w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2307-markdown","title":"Top 3 Marijuana Topicals for Back Pain","slug":"top-3-marijuana-topicals-for-back-pain","content":"Desk chairs and driver’s seats dominate our daily lives and as a result, most adults at some point experience lower back pain. Luckily, cannabis’s anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate some of this discomfort. \r\n\r\nThe popularity of cannabis lotions, creams, balms and oils has soared—you no longer need to ingest cannabis to experience its benefits. Consumers are now rubbing these marijuana-infused topicals onto their back and other areas experiencing pain for localized, non-psychoactive relief.\r\n\r\nBut with so many cannabis topicals to choose from, how do you know which products are the right fit for you? Marijuana topicals on average can cost as much as $40 a jar, which is a lot to pay for something that may not actually work. For this reason, I wanted to detail my experience with an aching lower back, in order to share what worked best for me.\r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \r\n\r\n### 1. Flour Child Relief Balm: A Fragrant & Relaxing CBD Topical\r\n\r\nFlour Child Relief Balm was the first marijuana topical I purchased as a medical patient at SPARC dispensary in San Francisco. I found myself wondering if a high cannabidiol (CBD) topical rubbed on the skin could actually help with back pain. The budtender gave me my first glass container of Flour Child’s Relief Balm and since then I’ve always kept it within reach.\r\n\r\nFlour Child has stayed in my rotation for this long because it’s unique amidst a sea of marijuana-infused topicals and oils. It comes in four fantastic formulas: rose-geranium, lemongrass, lavender-mint and unscented. I tried the lavender-mint and unscented versions and found the lavender to be very relaxing; I appreciate the pleasant aromas in combination with my pain relief.\r\n\r\nRELATED: [DO CANNABIS TOPICALS PASS THE DRUG TEST?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/574b679b982db9000a000055/do-cannabis-topicals-pass-the-drug-test)\r\n\r\nThis is a high CBD topical, while others are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) based. This is purely anecdotal, but I believe that high CBD topicals are more effective at reducing the acute pain I feel in my spine, while the other formulas are better at combatting my chronic pain caused by inflammation. \r\n\r\n### 2. Om Edible’s Lion Balm Stick: A Convenient & Fast-Acting Marijuana Topical\r\n\r\nI’ve been a fan of Om Edible’s Lion Balm for the past year. I originally found their beeswax-based topical at Harvest in San Francisco and have been hooked ever since. \r\n\r\nThe menthol and cannabinoids are effective in relieving my lower back pain, but what makes this cannabis topical stand out is its compact and discreet roll-on method of delivery. The convenience of this format allows for use during a long car ride or while at your desk at work, with hardly any smell.\r\n\r\nAfter rubbing this marijuana topical on my lower back, I find that it quickly warms the area and is very effective when I need fast pain relief. It smells mostly of mint and menthol. \r\n\r\nCurrently, I have three Lion Balms in my cannabis topical rotation, one for the car, one for the office, and one that stays in my coat pocket. At $8 each, it’s an easy decision to stock up on.\r\n\r\n### 3. Xternal Topical Cream: A Light & Non-Greasy Cannabis Lotion\r\n\r\nI’m a big fan of Xternal’s Topical due to its the light and creamy texture.  I discovered Xternal while on a trip to a car dealer in Richmond. My back was acting up, so I stopped at the nearest dispensary to buy anything that would get rid of my pain. The budtender handed me a 4oz container of Xternal’s cannabis cream and I’ve kept that tub on my desk since.\r\n\r\nPrior to finding Xternal Cream, I had a bad experience with an oily marijuana topical that left several of my shirts stained. No dispensary I know of has a return policy, but I was about to try after throwing away some of my nicest clothes. Such is not the case with this marijuana topical. \r\n\r\nXternal’s cannabis topical is unscented and comparable to how a generic hand lotion might smell. I rub Xternal liberally onto my back until I’m sure it won’t spread over my shirt, and relax into my chair, confident that my pain will quickly subside. \r\n\r\n### Marijuana Topicals Can Help With Back Pain\r\n\r\nIf you struggle with back pain or any chronic localized pain, I’d highly recommend any of these marijuana topicals. They’re all easy to use, easy to transport and effective in a short space of time. Although everyone reacts differently to cannabis, anecdotally I’ve found that these topicals have a high rate of success for myself and those I know who use them. Here’s to you and a better, less painful back.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Sava](https://www.getsava.com/shop/relief-balm/)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/14b42/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/f836f/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.jpg 200w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/2244e/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.jpg 400w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/14b42/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.jpg 800w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/47498/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/54ac5/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/58556/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/61e93/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.webp 200w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/1f5c5/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.webp 400w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/58556/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.webp 800w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/99238/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.webp 1200w,\n/static/5c001d242eeb2b96a5bbd30d1f0def01/5e0b8/7a41fcaf6056e2349960a91db822c386.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2394-markdown","title":"Strovia Cannabis Lozenge Review","slug":"strovia-cannabis-lozenge-review","content":"### Why a Cannabis Lozenge?\n\nI talk to a lot of people regarding their cannabis usage and one thing that comes up over and over again is convenience of use and discretion. Let’s face it, carrying around cannabis flower is not always convenient and it is never what I might call discreet. In addition, many people look to find cannabis products that might carry the benefits of smoking, but they would prefer not to smoke at all. It seems this is especially true of those that may be new to cannabis as well as the senior community. For these reasons, the cannabis marketplace has been exploding with a wide variety of new products that explore a plethora of delivery mediums. One product which recently came to my attention is a cannabis lozenge by Strovia.\n\nStrovia solely focuses on the creation of lozenges and offers 11 different products with four different ratios: THC rich, CBD rich, Balanced 1:1 and “Just CBD”. When the  cannabinoids CBD and THC are combined, patients benefit from the synergistic healing action of THC and CBD. There is also a variety of potency anywhere from 2mg - 32mg, which provides enough variety for the varying needs of patients. Doug of Strovia commented on dosing saying, “In plant-based medicine, each person responds differently to identical doses. Some people achieve a substantial benefit from a micro dose. However, they may encounter that same benefit at the low, standard or high potency doses.” \n\nThe lozenges combine familiar flavors such as echinacea, ginger and lemongrass, apple, mango, honey and even pomegranate. Strovia also touts their lozenges to be “infused with premium cannabis, cleanly extracted, lab tested and third party verified for both dose accuracy and purity.” \n\n### Delivery Method Matters\n\nIf your familiar with cannabis, you may know that different methods of administration yield different results. Lozenges are interesting in that the membrane of the mouth allows for the infusion of cannabis directly into the bloodstream, and quickly. This is different than a swallowed edible, in that the cannabis is metabolized by the liver and may be more susceptible to stomach acids and other digestive enzymes that can decrease the potency of the THC and CBD.   \n\nDoug from Strovia explained that “absorption through the oral mucosa is simply the most effective delivery method for reaching the [endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system). But more than that, lozenges are easier to administer to pediatric and geriatric patients as well as patients who have difficulty swallowing or holding down food down.”\n\nRELATED: [BLOOM FARMS CBD CARTRIDGE REVIEW](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57ba49a00bc21c000b6472c3/bloom-farms-cbd-cartridge-review)\n\nStrovia was interesting enough to us at HelloMD that we decided to do a road test with a few members of our staff. Our staff selected flavors, ratios and potency that appealed to them and below you can read what they had to say. If you would like to purchase Strovia, the lozenges are available for delivery throughout California through True Farma.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### HelloMD Strovia Reviews \n\nBart - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Lemon Honey Echinacea,\n20mg THC Rich & 10mg THC Rich\n\n“The first 20mg I took was at a holiday party and it provided just the right amount of \"background music\" that kept me engaged in conversation, entertained, but not too intoxicated to function. I felt relaxed and social. At the same time and my appetite was stimulated enough to enjoy the dinner and I found the lozenge to be delicious with just enough of sweet from the honey.\n\nThe second time I took the 10mg dose and it was after a particularly long day of work and I found it was just enough to take the edge off. In this instance it was like the background music was turned down to a whisper.  This product is wonderful if you need to relax, especially for someone like me where I spend the majority of my time talking on the phone. I also found the soothing effects of the honey on my throat after a day of speaking, which is a wonderful effect of this lozenge.”\n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nVeronica - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Pomegranate Antioxidant,\nTHC Rich Strovia - 5:1 THC: CBD\n\nOne day last week after work, I decided to open up my new Strovia lozenge and it immediately reminded me of a jolly rancher. I popped it in my mouth and a lovely, strong flavor of pomegranate was what was immediately evident. After a few more minutes I detected a mild cannabis taste, which is fine for me. However, there was a cannabis after taste, particularly on the roof of my mouth, but a glass of water made it imperceptible.\n\nThe effects of the Strovia kicked in pretty quickly. What I immediately noticed was that I had less pain in my right knee, and I was able to perform deep squats and return to standing without struggle. My stress levels were reduced and my mood improved throughout the evening, and I was able to fall asleep right away. I enjoyed a restful night’s sleep without interruption, and woke up feeling refreshed.”\n______________________________________________________________________\n\nChris - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Lemon Honey Echinacea,\n20mg THC Rich\n\n“The Honey Lemon Echinacea lozenge is a nice switch from the traditional edible.  The lozenge delivery is reminiscent of a Ricola, both in taste and overall experience, which I found incredibly pleasant.  The onset of the 20 mg of THC was fast, but not in an overwhelming way.  As a high tolerance user, I found the the high to be immediate but sustained over the course of several hours, which is unusual for me with this dosage, which I consider on the lower side.  The lozenge itself is pretty big, so if you’re not a fan of hard candy, you may want to drop it in a cup of tea to dissolve as an alternative.”\n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nRyan - HelloMD Staff,\nStrovia Pomegranate Antioxidant,\n10mg CBD Rich\n\n\"I decided to try the Strovia at my work desk to see the impact of a CBD edible on my workflow. Anxiety can add a lot of noise to your thought processes and CBD clears this up for me. As a result, I am able to focus much better at the tasks at hand, in combination with fostering a relaxed and well adjusted mood. \n\nThe lozenge dissolved slowly and the effects also came on so slowly. I barely noticed a change in my own affect, a hallmark of a great CBD edible. I found that the rest of the day very went well for me, conversations came much more smoothly and I was able to focus on what I wanted to when I wanted to. I am looking forward to buying my own Strovia and repeating the experience. I hate to be a fanboy, but I really really enjoyed trying the Strovia 10mg CBD lozenge.\"\n\n_______________________________________________________________________\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/14b42/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg","srcSet":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/f836f/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/2244e/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 400w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/14b42/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 800w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/47498/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 1200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/54ac5/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/58556/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/61e93/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/1f5c5/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 400w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/58556/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 800w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/99238/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 1200w,\n/static/399c2f309142b077e8886bcf0e21d06f/5e0b8/d3dd9443b710f5a442f55dab2ef03b69.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2134-markdown","title":"Top 6 Marijuana Strains for Back Pain","slug":"top-6-marijuana-strains-for-back-pain","content":"Back pain is one of the most common types of pain experienced by just about everyone. It’s [estimated that 80% of people in the U.S. will experience some kind of back pain](http://www.thegoodbody.com/back-pain-statistics/) over the course of their lifetime. Lower back pain is the most common with 31 million Americans experiencing it at any given time.  \n\nAnd so it comes as no surprise that many Americans want to know what’s best for back pain. In many cases, doctors prescribe prescription opioid painkillers, which are intended for short-term use. These opioids can help with back pain, but they come with a litany of side effects such as constipation and nausea. As well, they are highly addictive. Meanwhile, over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can also bring on a host of issues such as stomach ulcers, liver or kidney problems and high blood pressure.\n\n### Three Major Kinds of Back Pain\n\nBack pain normally falls within three major categories: axial, referred and radicular pain. \n\n* **Axial pain**, which is also called mechanical pain, can vary greatly based on the case; it can be dull or sharp and can exist constantly or come and go. The most common source of axial back pain is muscle strain, which occurs when muscles are torn or stretched to an extreme. \n\n* **Referred pain** is often a dull and achy pain that tends to move around the back and body. Referred pain, which can vary in intensity, occurs away from the direct source of the pain. For example, referred pain can occur in the hips and thighs when there’s a problem like degenerative disc disease in the lower back. \n\n* You may know radicular pain by another name: **sciatica**. It’s a deep and intense pain that follows nerve pathways into your extremities, and it can lead to numbness and weakness. Radicular pain is often caused by inflammation, compression or an injury, usually to the root of the spinal nerve. \n\n### Studies Show Marijuana Can Help With Back Pain\n\nWondering what can help with back pain? Following are two studies that point to marijuana as being helpful with reducing chronic pain, which can of course include back pain.\n\nA study published in the _Canadian Medical Association Journal_ found that [cannabis could help reduce chronic pain in men and women](http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/news/20100830/marijuana-relieves-chronic-pain-research-show). The subjects were administered three different marijuana potencies at different times during the study. The strengths were rotated with a placebo, and none of the subjects knew what they were taking at any given point during the study. Pain was measured by patients on a 10-point pain scale.\n\nThere was an average of a one-point reduction in pain by patients who took the highest potency of cannabis. Though these results are modest, they were still considered successful because most strains of marijuana are much more potent in their percentage of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). \n\nAnother study in December 2014 by the [College of Family Physicians of Canada recommended that patients with chronic pain smoke cannabis](https://www.medicaljane.com/2014/12/31/physicians-organization-in-canada-releases-guidelines-for-prescribing-medical-cannabis-for-pain/). It stated that patients with severe neuropathic pain conditions could find relief in cannabis if they hadn’t had adequate responses to other medications. \n\nThe paper also stated that the recommended maximum dose of cannabis that a patient should consume in one day is one inhalation, four times a day, which is roughly 400 mg a day of 9% THC cannabis. Though the guidelines are fairly vague, it does back up anecdotal evidence that higher-THC consumption is best for chronic pain.  \n\n### Best Marijuana Strains for Back Pain\n\nEach cannabis strain works differently for everyone, but often THC-heavy strains are best to combat pain. Don’t discount cannabidiol (CBD) though, as it’s extremely helpful at reducing inflammation, which could also help decrease your back pain. \n\nIt’s also important to be aware that higher-percentage THC strains have more psychoactive effects. Some people find it useful to take a strain lower in THC during the day and then something higher in THC in the evening, right before bedtime. The key is finding which marijuana strains, consumption method and dosage work best in easing your back pain.\n\nHere are some of our top picks of marijuana strains that have been shown to be effective at relieving back pain.\n\n* **[Headband](https://hellomd.com/strains/headband)** is a hybrid of OG Kush and Sour Diesel. This particular marijuana strain contains 20–27% THC and less than 1% CBD. Headband is particularly helpful at easing muscle strains and relieving general pain. It’s also known for its long-lasting effects, though keep in mind that it’s a very potent strain. \n\n* **Candyland** is a sativa-dominant hybrid of Granddaddy Purple and Bay Platinum Cookies. Candyland is effective at reducing pain, including back pain, and muscle tension with uplifting and stimulating side effects. Candyland is also known to relieve stress and fatigue. Also a potent strain, it has high levels of THC, at roughly 24%, and it has about 1% of both CBD and CBN. \n\n* **[OG Kush](https://hellomd.com/strains/og-kush)** is indica-dominant and is known for its high levels of THC. OG Kush is helpful at relieving back pain and muscle spasms. It has about 23% THC and only about 1% CBD. OG Kush is also one of the more psychoactive strains of cannabis on the market. \n\n* **[Bubba Kush](https://hellomd.com/strains/bubba-kush)** is an indica with 14–22% THC and 0.06–0.1% CBD. Bubba Kush is believed to be a hybrid of Northern Lights and OG Kush through an accidental pollination. Bubba Kush is helpful at easing muscle tension, including the kind associated with back pain, and decreasing stress. \n\n* **Skywalker OG** is an indica-dominant hybrid of Skywalker and OG Kush. Skywalker OG is known for its effectiveness at reducing pain symptoms and decreasing physical limitations caused by pain. \n\n* **[ACDC](https://hellomd.com/strains/acdc)** is a sativa-dominant hybrid that’s has a CBD:THC ratio of 20:1. This cannabis strain has about 16–24% CBD and just 0.4–1.2% THC. ACDC is particularly helpful in reducing back pain with no psychoactive side effects. \n\nIf you’re still not sure which marijuana strain could help you with your back pain, head over to our [Answers page](https://www.hellomd.com/answers). There you can read answers on cannabis for back pain, and you can also connect with a doctor and our well-informed community who will respond to your questions.  \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.7094017094017093,"src":"/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/14b42/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.jpg","srcSet":"/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/f836f/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.jpg 200w,\n/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/2244e/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.jpg 400w,\n/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/14b42/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.jpg 800w,\n/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/182e4/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.jpg 838w","srcWebp":"/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/58556/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/61e93/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.webp 200w,\n/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/1f5c5/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.webp 400w,\n/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/58556/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.webp 800w,\n/static/2204349e7fca4610adc333074f21c04c/cbc07/e5b034c9d9e2d352d83fccc32d41cc45.webp 838w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2176-markdown","title":"The Best Cannabis Strains for Chronic Pain","slug":"the-best-cannabis-strains-for-chronic-pain","content":"When deciding what strain is best for your pain, it's important to consider what time of day you're planning on using the product, the kind of pain you're experiencing, and the level of psychoactivity you're comfortable experiencing. Often patients will choose different strains of marijuana based on the time of day they plan to take it. It can be helpful to use one strain of cannabis during the day, such as a low THC, high CBD variety, and another higher THC strain to aid in pain relief and sleep during the evenings.\r\n\r\nDifferent administration methods are also important to consider when thinking about pain management. Vaporizing, for example, allows for quick pain relief, whereas edibles or oils may process slightly slower, but maintain pain relief for a longer period of time. It's important to remember that each patient is different and choosing the right strain may take some trial and error to figure out what strikes the best balance for the individual. Here are some examples of cannabis strains that are prized for their ability to decrease pain.\r\n\r\n### Harlequin\r\n\r\nHarlequin is a sativa-dominant hybrid strain of marijuana. Since Harlequin is CBD heavy, it helps reduce inflammation and pain with little to no psychoactivity, “Strains with a high percentage of CBD often work well for migraines, pain relief, and anxiety. Harlequin may be one of the best strains available for migraine treatment. It typically has a CBD/THC ratio of 5/2. The CBD should enhance the pain-killing effects of THC while preventing its intoxicating effects,” says [Dr. Mark Edmunds](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/578e7e592430ec000b00001d/i-have-intense-migraines-and-i-find-too-much-thc-actually-makes-them-worse-is-harlequin-a-good-strain-for-me). Harlequin can be particularly helpful for controlling pain during the day because most patients won’t experience any high when using it.\r\n\r\n### OG Kush\r\n\r\nOG Kush is arguably the most well-known cannabis strain and is readily available at most dispensaries. OG Kush is an indica-dominant hybrid that's known for its high levels of THC. The THC concentration in OG Kush ranges from 20-25%. OG Kush can be very effective for pain, but users will often experience high levels of psychoactivity. OG Kush has very low levels of CBD, less than 1%, but it shows promise beyond just its high levels of THC.\r\n\r\n“It has several terpenes that exceed the CBD content and are pain relieving (Linalool and Myrcene). Myrcene also sedates and [relieves] muscle spasms…[OG Kush] would be a reasonable choice for back pain relief,” explains [Dr. Sherellen Gerhart](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/574dee0aaa9671000c000024/i-have-a-lot-of-chronic-pain-and-have-had-multiple-back-surgeries-is-og-kush-a-good-strain-for-me). It is important that patients start slow with OG Kush in order to control the levels of psychoactivity experienced while using such a THC heavy strain. OG Kush is often a good choice for relieving pain in the evenings, because it can also aid with insomnia. \r\n\r\n### Sour Diesel\r\n\r\nSour Diesel, also known as Sour D, is another THC heavy strain of marijuana. Sour Diesel is a sativa that has about 20% THC and no noticeable CBD content. Sour Diesel tends to have a psychoactive effect on users, but it's often associated with an energized feeling. It's commonly seen as good for day-time pain management because it tends to boost the mood of patients rather than slow them down and has strong pain relieving qualities from the high levels of THC.\r\n\r\nHelloMD doctor [Dr. Andrew Vanderveer](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/57506b09983582000b000019/what-makes-sour-diesel-so-popular-with-people-and-how-does-it-make-people-feel) states \"Many people utilize Sour Diesel to decrease depression, treat pain (without sedation), and increase energy and creativity.\"\r\n\r\n### Canna-Tsu\r\n\r\nCanna-Tsu is a high CBD strain of cannabis that has shown great promise in targeting pain. Canna-Tsu is a sativa-dominant hybrid of two CBD heavy strains and its higher level of CBD means that there's little or no psychoactivity associated with it. Canna-Tsu has gained in popularity in the medical marijuana community.\r\n\r\n“The high CBD and other combination of cannabinoids seem to be beneficial for management of pain, spasms and anxiety. ... The popularity may be related to the effects on symptom relief and the fact that higher CBD products produce less cognitive disruption and therefore leave patients more functional and clear-headed.” explains [Dr. Sherellen Gerhart](https://www.hellomd.com/answers/57927b33fd739e000bef7b4d/i-am-hearing-more-and-more-about-canna-tsu-why-is-it-so-popular). Patients describe the effects of Canna-Tsu as mellow with an increase in mental clarity and happiness. The high levels of CBD in Canna-Tsu mean that it can be helpful at reducing inflammation, so it can aid in healing the root cause of the pain, as well as simply providing relief from painful sensations. \r\n\r\nDo you have questions about which strains are best to fight pain? Ask a question in [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/) feature. Our doctors and community will answer.\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/14b42/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/f836f/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.jpg 200w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/2244e/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.jpg 400w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/14b42/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.jpg 800w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/47498/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/54ac5/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/58556/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/61e93/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.webp 200w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/1f5c5/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.webp 400w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/58556/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.webp 800w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/99238/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.webp 1200w,\n/static/c921357bf37fc97e2fedf3e988f0ef0e/5e0b8/4d30f25841d0812536072d359c9970f2.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2210-markdown","title":"Back Pain, Cannabis & Dehydration","slug":"back-pain-cannabis-and-dehydration","content":"Ryan Palm is a key member of our customer service team at HelloMD. He is also a new contributor to the HelloMD blog, discussing his own experiences with cannabis.\r\n\r\n# Cannabis Solved My Back Pain...Mostly\r\n\r\nThe pain relieving properties of cannabis are remarkable and it is for this reason that I choose cannabis as my 1st line option for combatting chronic back pain. I have experimented with over-the-counter medications in the past like Advil and Tylenol and have even used the prescription medications Flexoril and Zanaflex. They all provided a degree of relief, but due to my lack of enthusiasm for swallowing candy coated pills and a few unpleasant side-effects (ohthe grogginess), I was often left with a partial solution to my back pain problems. Once I made the switch to a cannabis maintenance plan, focusing on some stellar CBD strains, I started getting some real, lasting relief from my pain! And then my muscle tissue lived happily ever after… \r\n\r\nExcept, on some sweaty nights I still found that I woke up with back pain and, much to my concern, even sometimes spinal pain! I racked my brain for the causes... was I hyper extending too much? Not enough stretching? Over time I started to notice two things: The first was that whenever my back hurt the most my lips were very dry. The second was that on my worst days I was waking up with a headache.  Quickly, the picture began to become clear. I was finding myself waking up dehydrated! \r\n\r\n# Dehydration: The Culprit in Chronic Pain\r\n\r\nQuickly, I took to the web to confirm my hunch. Article after article confirmed my hypothesis; what a relief I felt knowing that my problem had been identified. Here’s what I found: \r\n\r\n>1.\tYour back has a series of discs in between each vertebra. \r\n2.\tThese discs are the shock absorbers that cushion your bones.\r\n3.\tEach disc is mostly comprised of water.\r\n4.\tIf the disc is dehydrated, then its ability to cushion your vertebra becomes  compromised.\r\n5.\tAs a result “pain, swelling, and even ruptures” can occur.\r\n\r\nBefore this, I never realized that dehydration had such an impact on your spinal health.  I knew the traditional methods of back care, like a daily walk, plenty of stretching, and good posture, but I had not become aware of the enormous affect water had on my back.\r\n\r\n# Cannabis - Not a Silver Bullet\r\n\r\nOnce I began monitoring my water intake, especially making sure that I was hydrated before bed, I found my spine was more flexible and in general healthier feeling. The whole experience was a great reminder that, although cannabis works wonders with chronic pain, you can’t just rely on a singular fix for your pain. You need to take care of your entire body. After all, it is the only place you have to live!\r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/ee604/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.png","srcSet":"/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/69585/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.png 200w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/497c6/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.png 400w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/ee604/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.png 800w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/f3583/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.png 1200w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/f90fa/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.png 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/58556/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/61e93/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.webp 200w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/1f5c5/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.webp 400w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/58556/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.webp 800w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/99238/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.webp 1200w,\n/static/60fbf795feab710b499e977294291051/5e0b8/6a67440ec8e8cd679b56fde4b76e2e56.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2039-markdown","title":"Topicals: A Revelation in Treating Pain with Cannabis","slug":"topicals-a-revelation-in-treating-pain-with-cannabis","content":"HelloMD welcomes Andrea Brooks, our newest guest blogger. Andrea is the founder of [Sava](https://www.getsava.com), the premier marketplace for high-quality, hand-crafted cannabis goods. Sava offers next day delivery for patients throughout California and is one of the newest collectives gaining a passionate following of enthusiastic medicinal cannabis patients. Andrea is extremely knowledgeable about how to use cannabis for pain and below she shares her personal story.\r\n\r\n**A Journey from Pain to Wellness**\r\n\r\nMy personal journey into the cannabis industry started with my own pain. Several years ago I was the program director for a San Francisco human and social services nonprofit, doing a job that I absolutely loved, when an injury caused systemic nerve damage and prevented me from being able to sit and use the computer for the long hours required, as well as other routine daily activities. The two years that followed were some of the harder times of my life, while I struggled to find a new way of caring for my body--one that would allow me to be pain free. \r\n\r\nLiving with chronic pain required me to do a lot of research and learning, and a lot of experimentation. I quickly realized that the side effects from pharmaceuticals were best avoided and thus began my trial and error with alternative forms of medicine. I always knew smoking cannabis could alleviate pain, but I’ve since learned that there is so much more to using cannabis than simply picking up a joint. Ultimately, cannabis and a solid self-care routine is what brought me back to health. \r\n\r\n**Beyond the Smoke**\r\n\r\nAt first I turned to smoking flower for pain relief. It did wonders--especially now that there is so much information available on strain types. The only downside of the some of the flower was I felt too high. I wanted to get back to life as usual and although I’ve always enjoyed smoking a joint from time to time, I’ve never been an all day every day smoker. I needed to find a way to manage my pain and stay more clear-minded. \r\n\r\nAs the medical cannabis industry has grown, we’ve seen an explosion in other methods of consumption. Learning about these products gave me a vast toolkit. Edibles and tinctures offer a discreet, easy to measure dose of cannabis available in many configurations. Some are low-dose, some are for sleep, some are high-CBD, and the list goes on. These products have been life-savers. But by far one class of products has helped me day in and day out more than any other is topicals. \r\n\r\n**Topicals - What Are They?**\r\n\r\nTopicals are a way to apply cannabis directly to your skin. Formulas come in many forms including oils, balms, salves, and lotion bars. Topicals are not psychoactive so you will not feel high after using them. \r\n\r\n**How Do They Work?** \r\n\r\nApplying a topical is a transdermal method of ingesting cannabis - meaning it goes through your skin. They work by binding to a network of receptors called CB2 that are found throughout the body and are activated either by the body’s naturally-occurring endocannabinoids or by cannabis compounds known as phytocannabinoids. \r\n\r\nWhen you apply most topicals, the cannabinoids don’t enter the bloodstream so you will not have a psychoactive experience. The two exceptions are with transdermal patches, which will deliver THC to the bloodstream and can cause psychoactive effects and cannabis-infused soaks, which allow THC to be absorbed through the colon. However, with lotions, salves, and the like, you can use them to relieve pain in a specific area while going about your day. \r\n\r\n**Penetration vs. Absorption** \r\n\r\nIn skincare, there is a difference between penetration and absorption. Skin penetration refers to the amount of a topically applied compound that exists between the top layer of skin, the stratum corneum, and the bottom layer of skin, the stratum basale. During penetration, the body does not absorb the compound so it does not affect the body systems. Skin absorption refers to the process where the compound breaks the skin barrier and enters the bloodstream.  \r\n\r\nMany factors influence penetration and absorption, including how thick the skin is in the area a formula is applied and the type of formula being applied. Most topicals will not pass the skin barrier and absorb into the bloodstream, but patches, for example, have been made with molecules small enough to do so. \r\n\r\n**Body Oils, Lotions and Salves**\r\n\r\nThrough my experimentation, I found each of these formulas have their own purposes. \r\n\r\nBody Oils - Coupling cannabis with self-massage (or massage from someone else if you’re lucky) can dramatically increase the therapeutic effects. Body oils stay on the skin long enough to provide lubrication for deeper massage, releasing of knots and tension. \r\n\r\nSalves and Balms - These absorb into the skin a bit faster and they are less messy to use, making them my go to for portable relief. Keeping a jar in my purse to apply as needed has been a lifesaver on many occasions. Salves and balms provide enough oil for some massage, but will sink into your skin faster than oil. \r\n\r\nBody Butters - Butters are one step down on the oily scale from salves and balms. Another great choice for relief on the go, body butters made with a natural butter base such as mango, shea, or cocoa. In my experience, the natural butters carry enough scent that they are the predominant smell, not the cannabis. \r\n\r\nLotions - the lightest in texture and oiliness, these will penetrate your skin the fastest. They are not good for massage, but they are great if you want to apply something under your clothes that will leave no mess. \r\n\r\nLotion Bars - lotion bars are solid bars that melt when applied to skin. Often made from a combination of natural butters and oils, these are great for an at home massage treatment. \r\n\r\nSoaks - A newer trend on the cannabis market are bath salts and bath bombs. Fill your tub, add the product, and soak. While you’re relaxing in the tub, the cannabis is penetrating your outer skin layers while also being absorbed by your colon. This leaves you with a very light psychoactive experience that is somewhere between very calm and slightly high. \r\n\r\n**...That Smells Nice**\r\n\r\nSome topicals have stronger cannabis scents than others. There are several options that do not smell like cannabis at all, offering you relief in places where you’d prefer not to unleash the smell of cannabis. Some companies add additional ingredients, such as wintergreen, eucalyptus, and lavender add to the experience. Some topicals are heating and some are cooling. Try a few to find your favorites. \r\n\r\n**What Can I Use Them For?** \r\n\r\nFor Inflammation and Arthritis - CBD has anti-inflammatory properties. If you’d like to combat inflammation or pain related to arthritis, look for a high CBD topical. \r\n\r\nFor Cramps - Topicals calm menstrual cramps. I’ve found body oils to be very effective, especially if applied to both the lower back and lower abdomen and paired with a hot water bottle. \r\n\r\nFor Sore Muscles - Soaking after a workout or self-massage with an oil will leave you less sore the next day. \r\n\r\nFor Better Sleep - a thorough rub down before bed with any topical makes me sleep more  soundly. My body relaxes more deeply as I drift off into my dreams. \r\n\r\n**A Self-Care Routine**\r\n\r\nFinding a way to handle pain that didn’t make me high was a game-changer. But cannabis alone is not a magic bullet. Developing a self-care routine was invaluable to my recovery. For some techniques, such as massage, pairing with cannabis magnified the healing effects.  \r\n\r\nStretching - Developing a 10-15 minute routine at the beginning and end of your day can make a world of difference. Luckily, the internet abounds with yoga and stretching videos if you’d like inspiration. \r\n\r\nMovement - A vital part of each day, especially if your job requires you to sit in one place. A brief daily walk or getting up once per hour move a bit will make the world of difference. Topical balm can be used in advance of any activity to loosen muscles, as well as be applied afterwards to soothe soreness.\r\n\r\nMassage and other Body Work - Massage alone is magnificently healing. Pairing it with a cannabis brings another level of relaxation. While a professional body worker will reach very deep levels of healing, self-massage on a regular basis is also fantastic. \r\n\r\nMini Foot Spa - While integrating massage into your life is a worthwhile luxury due to the health benefits, it’s not always possible to get a massage. Doing your own mini foot spa is another at-home, accessible self-care routine. Our feet carry so much tension a foot spa can release. Try a cannabis soak and rub some bath salts into your feet to exfoliate. Follow with an oil applied with massage. If you want to take it to another level, look at a reflexology chart and target areas specific to your tension. \r\n\r\nTake A Minute to Breathe - Much like stretching, just a few minutes each day makes a world of difference. While I was initially skeptical, meditation taught me a way to stay grounded during a flare up. I developed a pre-meditation ritual of rubbing some of my favorite scented topical into my temples and neck beforehand, helping me to settle in. \r\n\r\nAs I’ve come to find is often the case for providers of cannabis medicine, it was my own discovery of the vast and varied healing properties of this plant that inspired me to share it with others. In 2015 I founded [Sava](https://www.getsava.com), a marketplace for high-quality, hand-crafted cannabis goods. My hope is to share detailed information on use and dosage with patients while also providing access to safe, consistent medicine. \r\n\r\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/ee604/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.png","srcSet":"/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/69585/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.png 200w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/497c6/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.png 400w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/ee604/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.png 800w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/f3583/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.png 1200w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/f90fa/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.png 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/58556/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/61e93/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.webp 200w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/1f5c5/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.webp 400w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/58556/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.webp 800w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/99238/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.webp 1200w,\n/static/180c0d5969d8f620ba0d0b33edcea28f/5e0b8/55f4db69ab8fef1c1754e43421bdfbb3.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2084-markdown","title":"Cannabis Topicals Provide Relief for Sore Muscles & Pain","slug":"cannabis-topicals-provide-relief-for-sore-muscles-and-pain","content":"This past winter, I seemed to be sick non-stop. As a result, my normal exercise regime wasn’t an option. So now that I’ve started back up with early morning boot camp and daily hikes, my muscles have been screaming. After my first few days back at it, I can barely walk, feel hobbled and the aching muscles leave me seriously cranky. Could a marijuana topical balm help relieve my tired sore muscles? The answer is, as you may have guessed, yes.\n\n### What Are Cannabis Balms?\n\nMarijuana topicals can come in the form of a salve, cream or even oil. They're meant to be applied to the skin and provide localized relief for pain. Pain may be from nerves, arthritis, inflammation and general soreness, among other conditions. The benefit of a topical for many patients is that it can provide pain relief without creating a sense of being high. \n\nCannabis-infused balms work by absorbing through the skin and binding to our CB2 receptors, which are found throughout the body. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), along with other cannabinoids, have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect on the body once they come into contact with these receptors. In general, topicals won’t get into the blood stream, which is one of the reasons you don’t get high when using them.\n\nTransdermal patches are another way to administrater medical marijuana. And since transdermals actually do get into the blood stream, they’re somewhat different from topicals.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### My Top 4 Marijuana Topicals\n\nCannabis salves are said to help with sore muscles, back pain, arthritis and many other aches and pains. I’ve used different balms to help me with acute lower back pain, sore muscles, tendonitis and bursitis in my hips. Many marijuana topicals on the market today carry some of the same ingredients found within drugstore muscle creams, including eucalyptus, camphor, menthol and others. \n\nThere are a couple of downsides to using topicals; many smell like cannabis and they can often feel greasy due to their carrier oils.  Although there’s little to no research on topicals, anecdotally I found that people who use cannabis topicals uniformly seem to like or love them.\n\nAs you may know, numerous marijuana balms are out on the market, and many that I’ve yet to try. That said, I'm going to tell you about four topicals that I use and like. \n\n### Sweet Releaf Cannabis Body Butter\n\nI’m going to start with this cannabis body butter from [Sweet ReLeaf](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/56dddcac02baab0008000042/sweet-releaf/products), because I absolutely love it. It has a creamy texture, doesn’t smell like cannabis and provides fast relief from sore muscles.\n\nI was barely able to walk after my workout, my quads were so sore, and a colleague at work mentioned this wonder cream. I happened to have a sample size at home, so I popped it open, and with the smallest amount it went straight to work. Within half an hour my pain had decreased significantly.\n\nA 1 oz jar is $20, which may seem pricey, but a little goes a long way. I’m now a huge fan and plan to buy this one in bulk.\n\nA testimonial on the Sweet Releaf site states, “Sweet ReLeaf is the most effective pain-relieving cream I have ever used. The smell is pleasant and enchanting and it has a nice body feel. When I have sore muscles, I rub it in and the pain and discomfort melts away.” I have to say, I back this statement up with my own experience.\n\n### The Original Kind Rub Cannabis Menthol Formula\n\n[The Kind Rub](http://kindmedicineproducts.com/) is a very popular brand I've seen in many dispensaries. I’ve used this balm for some time, and it works well. When my back hurts after a workout, I put some on and find that it definitely lessens the pain.\n\nThat said, the smell of this balm is very powerful—you wouldn’t want to go on a date after using it. It also has a greenish hue that makes me think of the Wicked Witch of the West. This salve has a fantastic ingredient list, which includes eucalyptus, rosemary, sage, lavender and chamomile, among other natural herbs.\n\nOn the product page for this product, Kind Medicine says, “Great for arthritis, bone and muscle pain, backaches, neck aches, gout, chest congestion, sore feet, dry skin, and much more. Apply to the affected area as often as needed. You won’t experience any THC side effects, only the soothing comfort of being free of pain.”\n\n### Xternal Topical Balm\n\nAgain, this seems to be a popular cannabis balm that’s carried by many dispensaries. The packaging feels very generic, but I suppose it’s about what’s inside that matters.\n\nThat said, I’ve carried this in my purse for the past few months. When I’ve had a really sore muscle, it seems to help. It tends to be on the greasier side of topicals, so you need to rub this one in well.\n\nThe Xternal site says it helps combat many conditions and that, “Xternal Balm is a non-petroleum-jelly topical rub with our proprietary active ingredients. This formula was originally designed for MMA fighters who found it greatly improved recovery time.” \n\n### HerbaBuena Body Balm Topical Cannabis Rub\n\nI keep the HerbaBuena body balm on my bedside table. HerbaBuena pays particular attention to the quality of the cannabis it uses, and I appreciate this very much.\n\nThe balm has a very distinctive smell—it’s sort of planty-medicinal, which I happen to like. It has a yellowish hue and feels a bit grainy, so you also need to really rub it in before you can put clothes on over it. The jar’s description states that it contains 1,000 mg of THC, so a little goes a long way.\n\nOn the HerbaBuna site, it says, “Our proprietary blend of oils eases all types of muscle and joint pain, and has been reported to be particularly effective as a sports rub and for assisting with arthritis. Starring critically extracted cannabis as well as oils of coconut, jojoba and avocado, cacao butter and beeswax.”\n\nHopefully this list gives you a good place to start if you want to explore how marijuana topicals can help your sore muscles. And if you’re a pro when it comes to balms, salves, lotions and oils, let us know what your go-to topical is in the comments section. \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/ee604/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.png","srcSet":"/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/69585/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.png 200w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/497c6/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.png 400w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/ee604/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.png 800w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/f3583/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.png 1200w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/f90fa/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.png 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/58556/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/61e93/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.webp 200w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/1f5c5/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.webp 400w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/58556/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.webp 800w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/99238/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.webp 1200w,\n/static/476d04b038f8cc4677f569639151766e/5e0b8/79d1f129d6170b2d12dbb6ae5db92a6a.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":3,"currentPage":1,"id":4983,"name":"Back Pain","slug":"back-pain","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}