{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/chronic-pain/5","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2003-markdown","title":"Four Silent Side Effects of Chronic Pain","slug":"four-silent-side-effects-of-chronic-pain","content":"DiDi Davis is Founder of [Sweet ReLeaf](https://getsweetreleaf.com/), a topical cannabis manufacturer located in California. Sweet ReLeaf has created one of the most effective and enjoyable topicals on the market today which is creamy and smells wonderful. As Didi says \"We believe in the healing power of plants, specifically how the human endocannabinoid system communicates with the compounds found in Cannabis. We like to call it ‘Intelligent Medicine.’\" In her latest post, Didi talks about the silent effects of chronic pain.\r\n\r\n### Living with Chronic Pain\r\n\r\nSomewhere in the US is a man or woman sitting down at a park or walking through a grocery store. They have trained themselves to not wince with every wave of pain. To fight through the stiffening aches that creep in between doses of prescription medications. To act as though they are fine when really they are suffering consistently. \r\n\r\nSeptember is National Pain Awareness Month, and to honor those who deal with this daily we’re taking a closer look at their story. We want to help build awareness around what chronic pain actually is, how it affects the lives of those who survive it daily and how those caught in the throws of it can find help.\r\n\r\n### Depression & Mood Swings\r\n\r\nMost of us can’t sit in traffic for longer than a few moments without getting stir-crazy. For the millions who suffer from chronic pain, sitting still has likely become the new normal. Having to opt-out of long walks, hikes, biking trips, team sports, and vigorous household tasks leave many feeling useless and bored. This leads to restlessness, increased stress levels and depression. \r\n\r\nAccording to the American Physical Therapy Association, depression in chronic pain patients very often leads to an increase in their originating pain and creating a pain cycle that is very difficult to get out of. While chronic pain can insight bouts of depression, depression tends to increase body stiffness, sleeplessness and stress.\r\n\r\n### Parental Hardships\r\n\r\nParenting is an athletic experience, especially for those with children under 5 years of age. Playing on the floor with them, reaching down to kiss an owie, cleaning up after play sessions. \r\n\r\nIf bending, reaching or standing for long periods of time causes chronic pain flare ups, parenting can prove to be physically and emotionally impossible. Scoliosis survivor and parent of a young daughter, Rachel Rabkin Peachman shared her experiences with The Atlantic: “My daughter was sick, and I desperately wanted to soothe her. But I just couldn’t stand and rock her for one more minute to help her get to sleep.”\r\n\r\nResearch has shown that children of parents with chronic pain tend to grow up and experience adjustment difficulties, behavioral issues and may even complain about non-specific chronic pain themselves.\r\n\r\n### Prescription Drug Side Effects\r\n\r\nOne of the most common treatments for chronic pain is opioid-based oral medications such as Oxycontin and Vicodin. While they are highly effective at blocking pain receptors from communicating with the brain, they also come with a slew of side effects. \r\n\r\nSide effects from dependency on pain medications can lead to a spiral of prescription drug use in order to combat breathing difficulties, insomnia, constipation and sexual side effects, just to name a few. \r\n\r\nOpioid use also has a very high risk for addiction. Over 2 million Americans are addicted to opioid pain relievers and the numbers show no signs of waning.\r\n\r\n### Financial and Economical Impact\r\n\r\nAccording to health economist studies, the US economy pours over $635 billion into chronic pain per year. This is more than cancer, heart disease and diabetes. These costs trickle down to patients, often causing disastrous consequences to household budgets and financial well-being. \r\n\r\nNationwide, the economical impact comes in many forms. Diminished productivity and the increased cost of healthcare plague businesses, especially those with physically demanding work. Chronic pain is the most common type of long-term disability in the US. The Council for Disability Awareness reported the average disability claim lasts over 2 years. For 1 in 8 workers disability claims can last over 5 years and may even be indefinite.\r\n\r\n### Tips for Patients\r\n\r\nIf chronic pain is taking over your life it’s important to reach out for emotional and mental support. Find someone to talk to who can offer guidance on how to co-exist with pain. The American Chronic Pain Association provides a list of tools for those seeking help on their Pain Management Tools page. \r\n\r\nTalk to your doctor about alternative options such as medical marijuana or topical cannabis as well as meditative therapies, yoga and alternative physical therapies. \r\n\r\nDo you have questions about Sweet ReLeaf? Ask a question about the product in [HelloMD's new Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/marijuana-topicals/deeply-soothing-body-butter) feature. A doctor or member of our 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.\r\n\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/14b42/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/f836f/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.jpg 200w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/2244e/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.jpg 400w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/14b42/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.jpg 800w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/47498/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.jpg 1200w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/54ac5/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/58556/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/61e93/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.webp 200w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/1f5c5/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.webp 400w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/58556/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.webp 800w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/99238/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.webp 1200w,\n/static/0cfe6d58d719af34c90b49ee87cd6d5c/5e0b8/a70e8143831edde518e2a180633ff592.webp 1365w","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_2178-markdown","title":"Prince & The Opioid Epidemic","slug":"prince-and-the-opioid-epidemic","content":"Prince, one of the world’s most famous pop stars, was found dead of unknown causes on April 21, 2016. More than a month later, however, the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office in Minnesota released a report on his cause of death. \r\n\r\n### Opioid's to Blame (Again)\r\n\r\nThey stated that Prince’s death was caused by an accidental overdose of fentanyl, an opioid that is many times more potent than heroin. A police warrant showed that Prince had been written a prescription for fentanyl by Dr Michael Schulenberg on the day before he died and that the singer was in the possession of prescription pain killers at the time of his death. It was believed that Prince was prescribed the opioids for his ongoing knee and hip pain caused by years of on-stage stunts. \r\n\r\nAn attorney for Prince’s half-siblings brought to light that Prince had an addiction to Percocet decades before his eventual death. One of Prince’s half-siblings also made clear that Prince had began to use opioids to deal with pain, not as a recreational drug, similar to many others who later become afflicted with opioid addictions. Six days before Prince’s death, on April 15, his plane made an emergency landing during a flight home from Atlanta, after Prince was found to be unresponsive. CNN reported that a law enforcement agent had said that Prince was treated for a potential overdose of opioids. Just a day before Prince’s death, his team contacted an opioid addiction specialist with the goal of getting the pop star into a proper pain management regime and to potentially treat him for addiction related issues. Prince’s story is only the most recent of many that is shedding light on the devastating opioid addiction problem facing the United States. \r\n\r\n### The Culprit\r\n\r\nFentanyl is the, “most potent opioid available for use in medical treatment,” according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. The US DEA has released a national report on the dangers of fentanyl, explaining that even doses as small as 0.25 mg it can be potentially lethal. The CDC has stated that fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroine, and 100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid  painkiller that has been approved for treating severe pain. Despite its dangers, fentanyl is one of the most commonly prescribed pain killers. Fentanyl is a medication that comes on quickly and fades just as fast, so it is not useful for long term pain control. Fentanyl can administered in a variety of ways and forms from skin patches to injections to oral applications. \r\n\r\n### The Opioid Problem\r\n\r\nThere has been a 500% increase in fentanyl-related overdoses in Ohio alone between 2013 and 2014, but fentanyl only makes up part of the 78 fatal opioid overdoses that happen in the United States everyday. Most fentanyl-related overdoses are linked to fentanyl that has been laced with heroine or cocaine, according to the CDC. The rate of opioid overdoses has quadrupled since 1999, as has the number of prescriptions written for them. 32% of opioid prescriptions are being abused and often prescription opioid abuse leads to heroine use down the line. \r\n\r\nIn a testimony to congress by Nora D. Volkow, the director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a plan was laid out in attempt to relieve the United States of its opioid epidemic. Volkow listed a number of steps to increase education and add early intervention services to help decrease the number of opioid overdoses. In the plan, Volkow spoke about prescription drug monitoring programs, overdose education, abuse-deterrent drug formulas, and increased law enforcement to work against pill mills. \r\n\r\n### A Safer Alternative\r\n\r\nOpioid addiction and overdose has become a tremendous issue. Cannabis has shown to be as effective as opioids in treating certain chronic pain and has fewer associated side effects than opioids. States that have legalized cannabis for medical purposes have see a tremendously lower annual opioid overdose death rate. Opioid overdose related death decreased by 20% after the first year of medical marijuana legalization and 33.7% after 5 years. Cannabis can also be used to supplement opioid use, decreasing the doses of opioids needed to control pain.  From Elizabeth Warren and Baltimore Ravens player Eugene Monroe, people have been calling for cannabis to be legitimized and decriminalized for use as an alternative to opioid painkillers. Each overdose and tragedy amplifies the need for marijuana as a safer alternative to opioids that are reeking havoc throughout the United States. \r\n\r\nInterested in asking a question about this? Go to [HelloMD Answers](https://www.hellomd.com/answers) and ask one of our doctors or community. \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[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/althouse/380001383/in/photolist-zzBaZ-amNqBj-zzAgQ-zzAMv-a3fp5M-fxTWv-cuS6TN-a3fqBe-GscmBQ-2xH6AX-UmG2J-2Ta4w-zzASc-bD1DVR-6CsGxh-e8uqk-zzAxC-4vVEEQ-zzBn7-c1tHVb-c1tRLj-4Jxd8Y-3vqtF4-9LQzvz-c1tHsf-9FPQUW-a3fqMx-c1tHed-a3ibZ5-ngyjkE-a3fj4x-a3fjNg-a3ibiS-a3ibpb-pc9bPR-a3ibx5-a3ibds-a3ihB1-a3igWj-a3ib4u-a3fjGT-a3fiSH-4fCeD8-hPvs4Z-dVrUCz-a3fr3k-66si-c1tHEG-2Ta6m-a3ihZf)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.6,"src":"/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/ee604/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.png","srcSet":"/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/69585/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.png 200w,\n/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/497c6/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.png 400w,\n/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/ee604/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.png 800w,\n/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/0a098/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.png 967w","srcWebp":"/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/58556/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/61e93/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.webp 200w,\n/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/1f5c5/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.webp 400w,\n/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/58556/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.webp 800w,\n/static/6579b4d199fe9349657285c2bc6aba28/fdd1b/70fea6d35c89a4ebac80023c45bd5f65.webp 967w","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_2177-markdown","title":"Recent Study: Huge Opioid Prescription Abuse Problem","slug":"recent-study-huge-opioid-prescription-abuse-problem","content":"Opioids are currently some of the [most diagnosed drugs in\nAmerica](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2014/04/14/ban-some-pain-killers-here-are-6-common-opioids/).\nA powerful class of medications meant to treat various types of chronic\npain, opioids may *seem* like a miracle drug. Unfortunately, this\ncouldn't be further from the truth. While opioids are effective at\nknocking out pain, they're also some of the most highly addictive and\ndeadly medications currently available to American consumers. In fact,\nopioid medications are so dangerous that they accounted for upwards of\n16,000 deaths in 2009 alone. Because of these horrifying outcomes and\nthe ever-increasing rates of opioid prescriptions, American health\nprofessionals and consumers alike are on the lookout for safer, less\naddictive alternatives.\n\nThe Opioid Addiction Problem\n----------------------------\n\nRecently, Castlight Health released a report titled \"[The Opioid Crisis\nin America's\nWorkforce](http://www.castlighthealth.com/press-releases/new-study-reveals-32-percent-of-total-opioid-prescriptions-are-being-abused/)\"\nthat reveals some startling new insights into the scope of the opioid\naddiction problem. Using aggregated data from 1 million anonymized\nAmericans, the researchers found that 32 percent of all opioid\nprescriptions in America are being abused. The report also found that\n4.5 percent of people who have a current opioid prescription are abusing\nit, and that these people cost American employers an average as twice as\nmuch (approximately \\$19,450 annually) in medical expense costs as their\nopioid-free counterparts. In addition, baby boomers are nearly four\ntimes as likely to suffer from opioid abuse and addiction as\nmillennials, and patients who live in lower-income areas are twice as\nlikely to suffer from opioid abuse as individuals who live in\nhigher-income areas.\n\nWhile the results of the Castlight report are startling, they're not\nnews to health professionals. The opioid crisis has been ballooning for\nyears, and it has recently gotten so bad that the CDC has declared it a\n[public health crisis](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25581144).\nBecause of the dangerous side effects and highly addictive nature of\nopioid medications, health officials and consumers everywhere are\nactively searching for better alternatives.\n\nCannabis: A Better Way\n----------------------\n\nIn an attempt to mitigate the dangerous effects of opioid\nover-prescription, abuse and addiction, many people are turning to\ncannabis. In addition to the fact that cannabis has a long, demonstrable\nhistory of being used to treat chronic\npain,\ndozens of studies (such as this [2012\nstudy](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22880540) published in the\nJournal of Psychoactive Drugs) have found that cannabis offers fewer\nside effects than opioids and provides more therapeutic benefits than\nsynthetic medication. Recently, prominent politicians such as Elizabeth\nWarren have been [petitioning the\nCDC](http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2016/feb/12/elizabeth-warren-medical-marijuana-painkiller-opioid-abuse)\nto consider medical cannabis as a supplement to or alternative for\nopioid pain medications, and states like Massachusetts have been using\ncannabis to treat patients suffering from chronic pain and opioid\naddiction. Recently, one clinic in Massachusetts [used medical\ncannabis](http://www.bostonherald.com/news_opinion/local_coverage/2015/10/doctors_pioneer_pot_as_an_opioid_substitute)\nto treat 80 chronic pain sufferers who were addicted to opioid\nmedication. Within a month of treatment, 75 percent of the patients had\ngiven up their opioid medication completely and the vast majority\nreported less pain. Even if cannabis doesn't entirely replace opioid\nmedication in the near future, it's clear that [cannabinoids have a\nsynergistic\neffect](http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1038/clpt.2011.188/abstract)\nthat can help decrease pain while also mitigating the need for high\nlevels of opioid medications.\n\nWhile the solution to the opioid addiction crisis isn't cut-and-dry,\nit's clear that cannabis is a safe, effective alternative that can treat\nchronic pain while also preserving the health and well-being of\npatients.\n\n[Photo Credit](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jamiesrabbits/5748419806/in/photolist-9KY9Wj-aZq5vn-8hUcV6-9KVkMX-8hXs3S-fQQxg6-qhBL-3iTRp-a34Eto-axdEo1-ssbbq-4UiRny-4cjHBA-5WHHQw-6d2W6N-bAuebi-axaWFn-hNn9e-8fEk4y-3b9ZiT-f1uFuv-buQdTs-zpyrgV-7V9E9q-3X849D-8bmupc-3X84Zn-q5ddL-9nrraz-9Q4xGv-5YVmP4-8hUbNz-3XcjJb-9AU6x-8hXqfU-7LHArP-3X7ZVn-K6Vr3-RDsG-8pJqZ-ok8vwv-8WrAcv-6eHN2-cQjmas-dFHZpC-3Sdoa-D3X8F-FqENz-9kC6Km-buQdCq)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.6129032258064515,"src":"/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/ee604/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.png","srcSet":"/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/69585/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.png 200w,\n/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/497c6/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.png 400w,\n/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/ee604/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.png 800w,\n/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/00f5e/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.png 1006w","srcWebp":"/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/58556/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/61e93/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.webp 200w,\n/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/1f5c5/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.webp 400w,\n/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/58556/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.webp 800w,\n/static/f5cdca97612415ba157e9272fb13aefc/7f866/c821dc4a91ad4a97adbad834f5de004a.webp 1006w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2143-markdown","title":"New Guidance on Opiates for Chronic Pain: But There Is a Solution","slug":"new-guidance-on-opiates-for-chronic-pain-but-there-is-a-solution","content":"Each day, [about 40 Americans](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/03/15/cdc-issues-new-guidelines-opiate-prescribing-reduce-abuse-overdoses/81809704/) die from prescription painkiller overdoses. A medicine designed to help patients deal with pain from illnesses and injuries has turned into something more dangerous than health experts ever anticipated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), up to [25% of people](https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/data/overdose.html) who receive prescription opioids for non-cancer-related primary care become addicted to the substance, with drugs like methadone, oxycodone and hydrocodone being the most commonly abused.\r\n\r\nThe statistics are alarming and frightening. Finally, the medical industry is taking steps to curb the opioid addiction epidemic. The CDC is urging doctors and health professionals to be very cautious when prescribing painkillers and recommends they avoid it altogether for certain patients’ chronic pain treatment.\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### What Does the New Opioids Guidance Mean for Patients?\r\n\r\nWith the exception of those receiving end-of-life treatment or cancer care, doctors are now advised to, if possible, simply not prescribe opiates to patients with chronic pain or those suffering from injuries. Although the CDC recognizes that there are some situations in which the benefits of opioids outweigh the risks, current [CDC guidelines](https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/pdf/guideline_infographic-a.pdf) recommend that doctors try other drugs, such as anti-inflammatories, as first-line treatments before prescribing opiates for pain relief. The CDC also recommends starting with a low dose of opioids and building up to a dose that’s effective at relieving pain, rather than immediately prescribing a high dose.\r\n\r\nMany in the medical industry believe that the risk of opioid addiction outweighs the benefit of temporary pain relief. After all, the numbers don't lie; painkillers are deadly and are currently abused by [nearly two million people](https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/painkillers-fuel-growth-in-drug-addiction). There’s no reason to risk the lives of patients just so they can be more comfortable.\r\n\r\nThough doctors are under no legal obligation to follow such directives, what the CDC says carries a great deal of weight in the health care industry, and this instruction will undoubtedly lead to a significant reduction in prescriptions for painkillers to manage chronic pain.\r\n\r\nHowever, the directive does add that, when benefits are greater than risks, it's OK to prescribe opiates. Health professionals are strongly advised to talk to patients about using the painkiller and identify the potential of a substance abuse disorder. Exploring alternatives, such as holistic therapies, exercise and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine, such as aspirin, is another option.\r\n\r\n### Could Medical Marijuana Be a Better Solution Than Opioids?\r\n\r\nJust because doctors won't be prescribing painkillers as much doesn't mean people have to struggle through life. In addition to exercising, eating well and using holistic healing measures, medical marijuana represents a capable and safe alternative to painkillers.\r\n\r\nStereotypes surrounding the drug may turn some folks in the health care industry off, but research is proving that patients benefit from the use of this medicinal plant. Specifically, a comprehensive study undertaken by HelloMD of a community of patients using medical marijuana revealed very promising results on the effectiveness of marijuana as a medicine. Eighty-four percent of [survey respondents](https://s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/hellomd-news/HelloMD_Medical_Marijuana_Patient_Survey.pdf) claim that medical marijuana is extremely effective in relieving their symptoms. Many also reported using the drug to treat other health symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, nausea, mental health disorders and stress.\r\n\r\n### Medical Marijuana Is Effective at Treating Chronic Pain Symptoms\r\n\r\nPatients are using medical marijuana for a variety of reasons and are reporting excellent results. The survey by HelloMD found that 84% of patients using medical marijuana said that cannabis offered them relief from their symptoms. As well, very few reported negative consequences when using cannabis for medicinal purposes. In fact, 96% of respondents said they’d recommend it to a family member, friend or colleague in need. In short, patients see improvement when they use medical cannabis, with little to no side effects or other issues. That can't be said for prescription painkillers, which—as the research proves—leads to a high rate of addiction and many deaths.\r\n\r\n### You Don’t Have to Smoke Medical Marijuana \r\n\r\nSome may be turned off by the fact that marijuana is traditionally ingested by smoking the plant, but that isn't the only method of ingestion. HelloMD discovered that many women and older people, for instance, preferred topical creams and fragrance products. Younger males, on the other hand, chose to smoke and vape. Folks in the industry are inventing new ways to take cannabis every day—with edibles, tinctures, oils and capsules—to suit any preference; patients aren't forced to inhale. Additionally, doses can be adjusted to meet individual needs.\r\n\r\n### Medical Marijuana Won’t Lead to Overdoses\r\n\r\nUnlike opioids, it’s very hard to overdose on medical marijuana. In fact, it has [never been shown](http://www.drugwarfacts.org/chapter/overdose#%20sthash.SjSqCr2X.dpbs) that marijuana alone has caused an overdose. Overdose amounts suggested by some scientists are so high that it would be impossible for anyone to take that much. Hence, cannabis is a safe solution.\r\n\r\nOpioid overdoses tragically claim many lives. They also pose huge costs to ER departments, who must administer emergency treatments to quickly counteract the effects of the drugs taken. Reducing the rate of overdose could therefore have many important benefits for society.\r\n\r\nFor those suffering with chronic pain, finding a safe and effective way to improve overall well-being is a priority. The danger of prescription painkillers is all too real. Medical marijuana has been shown to be [safer than alcohol and tobacco](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56e884c21e4e2b000800001a/marijuana-is-safer-than-alcohol-and-tobacco-study-finds)—two completely legal substances. Additionally, marijuana carries [little risk of dependence](https://www.healthline.com/health-news/marijuana-addiction-rare-but-real-072014), a characteristic other drugs can't claim.\r\n\r\nSimply put, if health care professionals want a worthy and safe alternative to prescription opioids, the solution is to go green. Go for medical marijuana.\r\n\r\nPhoto Credit: [Army Medicine](https://www.flickr.com/people/armymedicine/)\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.\r\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5625,"src":"/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/ee604/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.png","srcSet":"/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/69585/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.png 200w,\n/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/497c6/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.png 400w,\n/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/ee604/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.png 800w,\n/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/50562/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.png 1198w","srcWebp":"/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/58556/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/61e93/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.webp 200w,\n/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/1f5c5/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.webp 400w,\n/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/58556/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.webp 800w,\n/static/b40a2f7e82f7297c783a5024c6ccd8f2/5ae49/bb758e88491eda5f0cd1fecd7a3d97fc.webp 1198w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2044-markdown","title":"Can Marijuana Help Solve the Heroin & Prescription Opioid Crisis?","slug":"can-marijuana-help-solve-the-heroin-and-prescription-opioid-crisis","content":"Heroin and prescription opioid addiction is hitting record numbers in the U.S. We largely treat these addictions with more opiates like methadone and Suboxone. But The Open Neurology Journal cites studies saying medical marijuana helps with chronic pain, but can also control nausea and vomiting.\n\nHeroin and prescription opioid [addiction to drugs like OxyContin and Vicodin is hitting record\nnumbers in the United States](http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2015/10/30/us/31heroin-deaths.html?_r=1). The medical community has largely attempted to treat these addictions—as well as counter the negative effects of opiate withdrawal—with more opioids such as methadone and Suboxone.  \n\nBut an article published in _The Open Neurology Journal_ mentions [numerous studies that found medical marijuana not only helps with chronic pain management, but can also control nausea and vomiting](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3358713/)—typical withdrawal symptoms when stopping the use of heroin and opiates. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Opioid Overdoses in Every State\n\nThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a study about the epidemic of drug overdose deaths in America, and the statistics were startling. Every state has been affected and almost every county in the country has seen an [increase in drug overdose deaths](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/heroin-overdose-deaths-double-in-u-s/). Between 2012 and 2014, the number of heroin overdoses doubled in the U.S. The increase is attributed to addiction to narcotic painkillers.\n\nThese numbers aren't just affecting certain areas. [New Hampshire, West Virginia and other states with large blue-collar worker populations have also experienced record numbers of rising opiate addiction](http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/01/07/us/drug-overdose-deaths-in-the-us.html). Workplace injuries have also been contributing to increasing opioid addiction in the working class.\n\nThe rise in deaths mirrors levels of the HIV epidemic at its height in the 1980s and 1990s. In 2014, [opioid use accounted for 61% of\ndeaths in the U.S.](http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/01/07/us/drug-overdose-deaths-in-the-us.html) In order to stem the tide of prescription drug abuse, new legislation has been introduced in an attempt to control prescribing practices. However, as [prescription painkillers became less available, addicts turned to heroin](https://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/11/health/prescription-painkillers-seen-as-a-gateway-to-heroin.html).\n\n### How Narcotic Addiction Affects the Brain & Body\n\nDrug addiction alters the physical composition of the brain. Narcotic addiction, in particular, rewires the circuits in the brain responsible for reward, consequence determination and mood. With this change in wiring, the brain is no longer capable of functioning without the help of the opioid drug. If the addicted person tries to abstain from heroin or other prescription opioids, they experience symptoms of opiate withdrawal such as:\n\n* anxiety and agitation\n* body aches\n* chills\n* craving the drug\n* vomiting\n* diarrhea\n* nausea\n\nThese opioid withdrawal symptoms can increase in severity, lasting a few hours to a few days. And, if the addiction began as a result of using drugs for chronic pain, withdrawal symptoms can worsen as the pain from the condition plus the pain of withdrawal intensify. \n\n### Prescription Attempts at Recovery from Opiate Addiction & Withdrawal\n\n[The common medical practice for treating opioid addiction is to prescribe more drugs](https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/breaking-an-addiction-to-painkillers-treatment-overvew#1) to mask the opiate withdrawal symptoms. \n\nAfter the initial withdrawal period ends, maintenance drugs are prescribed. Methadone, naltrexone, Suboxone and other medications are used to deter abuse, but none of them completely end the addiction process, keep withdrawal symptoms from occurring, or heal the connections in the brain.\n\n### How Medical Marijuana Can Help End the Cycle of Opioid Addiction\n\nWhile most of the methadone-based treatments prescribed in the treatment of heroin and opiate addiction can produce the same kinds of highs—as well as addictions—created by the drugs themselves, cannabis can treat addiction without the resulting euphoric feelings. Of the 400 or more chemical compounds in cannabis, only tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) produces a high. Many forms of cannabis can be grown and processed without this factor, which makes marijuana even safer to treat addiction than other drugs are.\n\nRELATED: [CANNABIS AS AN EXIT DRUG FOR THE OPIOID EPIDEMIC](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59f0d5d6453ba8000f3478d6/cannabis-an-exit-drug-for-the-opioid-epidemic)\n\nIn addition, the body contains the [endocannabinoid system (ECS), a natural system for healing itself through decreasing inflammation and pain while increasing immunity](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system). It works in a very similar way to the cannabinoids in medical marijuana.\n\nThrough proper use, cannabis supports the ECS and can actually rewire the brain, unlike methadone treatments which merely block chemical transmission while it's in use. This means that once the person stops taking methadone, the brain hasn't healed and will still seek satisfaction through cravings for heroin or other opiates. Cannabis, on the other hand, changes the composition of the brain so the cravings are no longer present.\n\nNot only does the use of medical marijuana promote the body's natural healing systems, it helps correct the underlying disease. Instead of masking or creating side effects, medical marijuana can be a real solution in combatting the problem of heroin and opiate addiction—and subsequently, opiate withdrawal.\n\nPhoto credit: [Wil Taylor](https://www.flickr.com/photos/subsetsum/3731217400/in/photolist-6FHsWu-9jkyup-nbdfPZ-5jpRT6-856TZo-cQay4s-aLtXLx-5APYay-vCqoHd-vCyVYH-eTpA1X-whPxFy-gAdTrV-qKZk9-7MhkvW-hNn9e-9uLbiZ-N65ak-f1uFuv-eaVHvf-4dacbb-4DyRuj-3PEmnc-bmQdtg-ev2AR5-635Ju-osGDv4-3Sdoa-dp5X6i-akWZuQ-yA6b-7ZvsBd-8QoWTf-f1tdQ9-cWsdNy-6yLQZz-cHhoMy-8FBhKR-8WrAcv-ar8jW-9xD73c-9uK5fi-6NFKz2-bytook-9i77ZQ-9skioK-eYbToQ-7e7VkF-4tuPZN-9sVyYA)\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/56201c206430320006bb0000/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/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/ee604/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.png","srcSet":"/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/69585/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.png 200w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/497c6/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.png 400w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/ee604/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.png 800w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/f3583/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.png 1200w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/646b6/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.png 1266w","srcWebp":"/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/58556/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/61e93/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.webp 200w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/1f5c5/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.webp 400w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/58556/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.webp 800w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/99238/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.webp 1200w,\n/static/c73d7eaea8d410f961c02bd4097e5d4f/9b0b5/f7608096d203b6680c07bf969e8d3aac.webp 1266w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1966-markdown","title":"Consuming Marijuana Every Day: The Pros & Cons","slug":"consuming-marijuana-every-day-the-pros-and-cons","content":"Many people consume marijuana every day and feel that it improves their health. Others are concerned about how it affects their brain and lungs—if they're smoking. So, what's the answer? Is it safe to consume marijuana daily? If so, is it something you _should_ do? Here's our list of pros and cons of marijuana use on a daily basis.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### Consuming Marijuana Every Day: Pros\n\nIn addition to helping people cope with things like digestive disorders and depression, cannabis is also good for the management of regular aches and pains. This is one of the main reasons that people consume it on a daily basis. Some even think of cannabis, and especially the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) as a preventative substance, like a vitamin, and so consume it daily. Here are some marijuana pros to consider.\n\n#### Daily Cannabis Consumption Helps Cope With Pain\n\nFor thousands of years, marijuana has been used as an effective treatment for everything from [chronic pain](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a5559d6237660006250000/marijuana-nips-pain-in-the-bud)\nto [menstrual cramps](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55dcd66a3961660006470000/marijuana-brings-relief-to-women-suffering-from-pms-symptoms). For some pain sufferers, marijuana can offer formidable pain relief benefits with none of the [dangerous side\neffects of painkillers—over the counter or prescribed by a doctor](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55c91db33934390006220000/cannabis-may-be-safer-than-opioids-for-managing-pain).\n\nStudies are now showing that pain sufferers who take opioids for their ailments [prefer marijuana and say that the plant gives them comparable pain relief](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58c731c766f73a578ef78e50/science-backs-cannabis-as-a-replacement-to-opioids) without opioids’ scary side effects. \n\n#### Marijuana May Make You More Creative\n\nWhen it comes to letting the creative juices flow, [smoking marijuana can help some people get creative](https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/psychology-masala/201204/cannabis-and-creativity). In light of this, it's used daily by [many people in creative professional fields, like music and art](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a53b186100a820006562f54/meet-3-artists-who-use-cannabis-to-spark-their-creativity). While marijuana doesn’t stimulate creativity for everyone, it can certainly help you come up with new ideas and think outside the box more than you typically would.\n\n#### Marijuana Can Help Regulate Blood Sugar & Weight Gain\n\nDespite that old stereotype of stoners getting the munchies and becoming fat on unhealthy food binges, research shows that everyday marijuana consumers are actually healthier than previously thought. According to a study published in the _American Journal of Epidemiology_, [people who use marijuana daily have a lower risk of obesity](https://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/early/2011/08/24/aje.kwr200.abstract) than people who don't consume cannabis.\n\nAdditionally, a study in the _American Journal of Medicine_ showed that [regular cannabis users have thinner waists and lower insulin levels](http://healthland.time.com/2013/05/21/marijuana-the-next-diabetes-drug/) than their cannabis-free peers. Because of this, daily cannabis consumption may be a good option for people struggling to maintain a healthy weight, it just may take a bit of experimentation to see which cannabis strains and products don’t stimulate your appetite. \n\n### Consuming Marijuana on a Daily Basis: Cons\n\nWhile consuming cannabis daily offers some folks many positive effects including pain relief and enhanced creativity, there are some marijuana cons that you should be aware of as well. \n\n#### Smoking Marijuana Daily Increases the Risk of Respiratory Illness\n\nWhile there are many ways of consuming marijuana, people who choose to smoke it may experience [forms of respiratory illness](http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/news/20091015/daily-pot-smokers-court-health-risks?page=2), such as chronic bronchitis, chronic coughing, wheezing and higher-than-normal levels of sputum. Studies have also shown a [potential link between regular marijuana inhalation and upper respiratory tract cancers](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2516340/), although the results have been mixed and often contradictory. If this is something that concerns you, try a smoke-free way of consuming cannabis including tinctures, edibles or topicals.\n\n#### Smoking Marijuana Can Damage Lungs in the Long Term\n\nAccording to the [American Lung Association, marijuana smoke can damage lung health](http://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/marijuana-and-lung-health.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/). Additionally, since marijuana smokers generally hold their breath longer and inhale more deeply than people who smoke cigarettes, there’s a risk that marijuana smokers may actually be exposed to more tar than cigarette smokers, though the carcinogens released from cigarettes are different than cannabis.\n\nBut anyone concerned about this aspect of consuming marijuana should opt for consumption methods like edibles or vaporizers, which offer the medicinal effects of the plant without the harmful effects smoking marijuana can have on the lungs.\n\n#### Marijuana Can Raise Your Heart Rate\n\nAccording to research, [marijuana raises the resting heart rate of people who use it frequently](http://www.livescience.com/45087-marijuana-heart-problems-deaths.html).\nWhile this isn’t a problem for healthy folks, it may be dangerous for people who have risk factors such as heart disease, arrhythmias or a family history of heart disease. In light of this, people suffering from any form of heart disease should consult a doctor and review their symptoms before getting involved in daily marijuana use.\n\n#### Excess Use of Cannabis May Disrupt Learning\n\nAccording to a 2011 study, it's possible that [excess cannabis use can impair verbal learning and problem solving](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3037578/). But if cannabis consumption stops, these effects generally last for only three weeks. It’s worth keeping in mind, though, that these symptoms are most pronounced in people who consume large amounts of cannabis on a regular basis.\n\nResearch now is supporting the thinking that cannabis doesn’t lead to IQ decline and that older studies that suggested it did didn’t account for other factors such as mental illness, alcohol use and socioeconomic status. \n\nRELATED: [DOES SMOKING MARIJUANA MAKE YOU STUPID?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56d69af2a6d8a5000c00002c/does-smoking-marijuana-make-you-stupid)\n\n### How to Decide How Much Cannabis Is Right for You\n\nThe decision about whether to smoke or ingest cannabis every day is a highly personal one. Cannabis has many well-known medicinal effects and has been shown time and time again to be a healthier and safer treatment option for a wide variety of [anxiety and mood\ndisorders](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55fc4eea3063390006b90000/cannabis-for-anxiety-and-stress-disorders), as well as [physical symptoms like muscle spasms](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55b156f433303700060f0000/easing-muscle-spasms-with-medical-marijuana). Even people who don't suffer from these symptoms often enjoy consuming marijuana on a daily basis. While you should always talk to your doctor before adopting a daily marijuana regimen, this is a valid option for many consumers.\n\nBut it's important to keep in mind that there are also risks to everyday marijuana usage, although they’re less conclusive than the noted benefits. Daily marijuana smokers may suffer from lung disease. Frequent use of cannabis can also increase risk of heart disease and difficulty maintaining attention span.\n\nIt’s up to individuals and their doctors to weigh the pros and cons of cannabis and decide whether daily marijuana usage is a good fit for their lifestyle.\n\nPhoto credit: [ashton](https://www.flickr.com/photos/8364994@N02/4834872285/in/photolist-8neZ5Z-64VQXv-dox2X-8FDa14-dmtvQG-nJCA9q-TTo2aa-QZZAcG-6p4WvU-2iAnC-6Wm5VR-nJCp4j-ogDqSp-HTEy2K-8dsv7Z-GqVRVR-9fPLXx-6rw6Rz-9nn8Sr-dtwbRQ-jZ7sr-5QLD8w-dK7UdC-jZ3kp-6TUTVp-21CmSdS-gv2Qpd-jqsZEW-8m9Zpi-aBqp8F-8nuNoz-HTEvpa-pyekQm-R3BnqK-8QzbMH-rkzc1F-axBBkh-7TKsfj-8nxwXJ-7ZHRji-996agY-rY3P5t-7RncRf-R2Ftww-8neNWp-d7PfnQ-RGVjn3-awPuQe-21KMFMs-yDxCT)\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/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/14b42/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/f836f/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.jpg 200w,\n/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/2244e/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.jpg 400w,\n/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/14b42/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.jpg 800w,\n/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/4fcde/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.jpg 928w","srcWebp":"/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/58556/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/61e93/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.webp 200w,\n/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/1f5c5/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.webp 400w,\n/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/58556/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.webp 800w,\n/static/e8a69b41784e6b75b2d972f2f4bd4bf4/ac1cd/3a1595299c1a32a3025565213032da41.webp 928w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1874-markdown","title":"Migraines: How I Got off Pain Meds & Found Relief With Cannabis","slug":"migraines-how-i-got-off-pain-meds-and-found-relief-with-cannabis","content":"Have you ever considered using cannabidiol (CBD) for chronic pain relief? I didn’t. Sure, I read some stuff in the news about marijuana’s awesome healing properties, but to be honest I always thought that it was a bunch of BS. I pictured myself smoking a big spliff, getting really paranoid, feeling out of my head and still having a seriously bad migraine. Oh, and going to bed and not sleeping because I’m spinning and, did I say it before, so incredibly PARANOID. Not my happy place. \n\nMy perception of medical marijuana was way off base. There are multiple different types of cannabinoids within the cannabis plant, and CBD is almost exclusively used for medical relief. CBD, unlike its twin sister-from-a-different-mister tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), doesn’t get people high or stoned. Based on a personal friend’s recommendation, I ended up trying CBD for migraine pain relief, and to my great surprise, it worked.\n\nIf this is of interest to you, then you should read on, because this is my story of how I got off Vicodin and started using CBD to manage chronic pain caused by crazy, intense migraines.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)  \n\n### More Than 2 Dozen Years of Intense Migraine Symptoms\n\nI’ve had migraine headaches since I was 14. Head-splitting, painful whoppers that can leave me in bed for days. The first time I had a migraine, I was swimming a 100-meter race on the high school swim team. I nearly won (almost), but when I got out of the pool, I actually fell to the ground. I was struck by migraine lightning that left me blinded, vomiting and out of my head for the next 12 hours. That was the start of it all.\n\nFor the last 25 or so years, it’s been much the same, although I learned that hormonal spikes most often cause migraines along with stress, diet, lack of exercise as well as other triggers. Getting pregnant? A really bad idea if you get hormonal migraines. Several pregnancies later, I found my headaches were as bad, if not worse, than in adolescence. So was my mood.\n\nWhen you feel chronic pain this badly, I believe most people are willing to do just about anything to get pain relief (I’m included in that group). This led me to try out a barrage of drugs to find a cure (by the way, there isn’t one unless you consider cutting off your head) and/or something that might provide significant pain relief.\n\nRELATED: [BEST CBD STRAINS FOR MIGRAINES](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57f283d9e4b4f6000a8dba0e/the-best-cbd-marijuana-strains-for-migraines)\n\n### Treating My Migraines With Imitrex & Vicodin\n\nYoga, Pilates and CrossFit helped me. Other than drugs, adding more exercise to my weekly routine and making a significant change in my diet, including dropping gluten and soy, helped alleviate the worst kinds of migraine headaches. That is semi code for the migraines that blind you and give you the dreaded-dotted-panic-attack-inducing aura. That said, no matter what changes I made, a migraine still seemed to rear its ugly head. Enter migraine treatment with narcotics and heavy-duty migraine medications such as Imitrex.\n\nFor the most part, I found the migraine meds like Imitrex too debilitating. I ended up foggy, drooling and practically comatose in bed, unable to do much, but still with a nagging pain in the gulliver. Vicodin is a combination of the narcotic hydrocodone and non-narcotic pain reliever acetaminophen. On a monthly basis, I found that taking Vicodin at the onset of a migraine headache helped to both stop it from getting worse while also giving significant pain relief with minor side effects.\n\nFinding pain relief with Vicodon was fantastic, but it also had a significant downside. I started snacking Vicodin on a monthly basis —roughly in the neighborhood of two to eight pills per month. It’s important to note that the DEA now classes Vicodin as a Schedule 2 drug, which means that it has a high potential to be abused and for people to become dependent on it. In August of 2014, the DEA changed the regulations around Vicodin and moved it into the same class as Oxycontin, Percocet and Codeine. As a result, physicians have been far more careful when prescribing Vicodin. Honestly, it’s understandable as the doctors now need to watch their own backs based on the new DEA regulation.\n\nLaws changed around Vicodin due to the fact that some seven million Americans seem to adore it as well as other prescription meds; they’re addicted to them and love to Rush Limbaugh (yes, that’s a gross, fat verb I coined). Fortunately, I never had an issue with Vicodin addiction, but it really bothered me that I was so heavily reliant on a narcotic. It seemed so, well, dependent. It was also far less convenient trying to get a prescription as well.\n\n### My Introduction to Migraine Treatment With CBD\n\nAbout a year ago, a friend suggested that I try a CBD mouth spray for my headaches. I was all ears, as she told me that it not only provided her with pain relief, but she was able to fully function; it didn’t make her tired, and she found it a more natural way to medicate. It had seriously never occurred to me that people weren’t necessarily smoking their medicine nor were they getting high.\n\nCBD and THC are two of the most prevalent compounds found in cannabis. There are over 60 other compounds that also make up the marijuana plant. THC is the psychoactive component and is what gets people high, which for some is great.\n\nCBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and does not affect our CB1 brain receptors in the same way as THC. Both THC and CBD have many of the same medical advantages, but each person reacts differently. For me, THC is like kryptonite. My system simply can’t handle it; I short circuit.\n\n### Get to Know CBD\n\nI was never much into chemistry, but the difference with CBD from THC is that THC is perfectly shaped to bind to our CB1 receptor, whereas CBD doesn’t—hence no psychoactive effects. CBD is now finally coming into the limelight due to its remarkable properties. CBD has been shown to:\n\n* relieve pain\n* fight cancer\n* prevent diabetic neuropathy\n* protect nerves\n* reduce nausea and vomiting\n* suppress seizures\n* combat anxiety \n* alleviate inflammation in the body\n\nAnd the list goes on and on. This is me screaming from the top of my work desk, IT ALSO STOPPED THE PAIN CAUSED BY MY MIGRAINES with zero gnarly side effects!\n\nRELATED: [TOP 6 WAYS TO CONSUME CBD](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57b2182407f595000bf74dd3/6-top-ways-to-consume-cbd)\n\nAnother interesting thing to note about CBD is its unique ability to work in conjunction with THC. CBD is able to stop the negative effects that may be felt from ingesting too much THC. In effect, CBD can reduce any overly intense psychoactivity caused by THC—so if your little brother smokes too much cannabis and locks himself in the broom closet, you give him CBD. It is like Freeze Miser meeting Heat Miser, and Mother Nature stopping the argument so Christmas can go on (excuse the cult TV special cultural reference). \n\nAs a result, you’ll see many products that use ratios of 1:1 CBD to THC, or always greater CBD to THC ratios. The ratio of THC to CBD is very important for the relief you want to feel and your tolerance for the psychoactivity inherent to THC.\n\nAll that said, I’ll leave the topic of ratios and dosage for another posting. If you’re like me, and have a highly negative sensitivity to THC, talk to your doctor as well as a reputable dispensary before buying and trying any new product. If you’re in the San Francisco area or Las Vegas, I highly recommend visiting [The Apothecarium](https://apothecarium.com) as the staff is friendly and very knowledgeable and can readily help with recommendations.\n\nSo to wrap it up, if CBD worked for me, it may also work for you. This story is one of the reasons we started HelloMD. We saw there was a great need for people to gain access to medical cards so they might be able to purchase medical marijuana legally. We advocate for people to try medicinal marijuana for medical needs whether they be small or large, because in our opinion it offers a viable, relatively safe medical alternative to the drugs developed by Big Pharma.\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/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3986013986013985,"src":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/14b42/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/f836f/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 200w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/2244e/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 400w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/14b42/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 800w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/16310/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/58556/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/61e93/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 200w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/1f5c5/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 400w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/58556/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 800w,\n/static/59d3e838ee0c312c66bd8871f35811a6/cc834/e8eb9f798fc789c6488e6fde7d6f0f1c.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1877-markdown","title":"Medical Marijuana May Reduce Opioid Use for Back Pain Sufferers","slug":"medical-marijuana-may-reduce-opioid-use-for-back-pain-sufferers","content":"Pain can be debilitating. More than [half of Americans say they live with chronic or recurring pain](http://www.painmed.org/patientcenter/cost-of-pain-to-businesses/), and general back pain—lower back pain, back spasms and/or sciatica—is one of the most common reasons people see a doctor. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\nBack pain can be defined as either acute, in which the patient recovers in six to eight weeks, or chronic, when someone experiences episodes of acute pain three or more times a year. Both chronic and acute back pain can interfere with everyday activities such as walking, sitting and sleeping. Both often result in missed days of work—chronic pain is one of the leading causes of disability claims. \n\n### Over-the-Counter & Prescription Back Pain Medication\n\nNearly half of those with back pain have suffered some type of trauma, but medicine still has little to offer as a solution. The most common treatments are over-the-counter medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin. Unfortunately, NSAIDs can have side effects such as nausea, ulcers and stomach upset. Plus, they're often not strong enough to combat serious pain.\nWhen NSAIDs aren’t enough, doctors may prescribe opioids, such as hydrocodone, to address the pain. [Long-term opioid use is problematic—it can lead to addiction as well as anxiety, depression, insomnia and other problems](https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/guide/narcotic-pain-medications#2). Unfortunately, for those with serious pain, there have been few other options available. This is changing though with the legalization of medical marijuana in many states.\n\n### Cannabis Is Safer Than Opioids & Just as Effective\n\nResearchers have known since the 1970s that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a cannabinoid found in marijuana, is effective for many types of pain. And even recent studies show that [THC reduces pain and improves sleep without any serious adverse effects](http://www.cmaj.ca/content/182/14/E694.full.pdf). However, due to cannabis’s classification as a Schedule 1 drug, research has been stifled. But with the march towards legalizing medical marijuana, research has picked up and the general takeaway is that marijuana is extremely effective for reducing pain.\n\nRELATED: [BEST MARIJUANA STRAINS FOR BACK PAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/57e1803d16ce30000b06ba0a/top-6-marijuana-strains-for-back-pain) \n\nCannabis appears to be as effective as—if not more effective than—routinely prescribed opioids—but without the side effects. A 2013 study by the University of Colorado found that nearly 90% of participants gained relief from their back pain with the use of cannabis, and 81% said it was effective as traditional painkillers. A study published this year by the drug company Ameritox concluded that 36% of marijuana users who also had a prescription for hydrocodone failed to take it, compared to only 27% of non-marijuana users. While it decried this failure as \"medication non-compliance,\" the positive point is that [36% of cannabis users no longer felt the need to take an opioid drug to relieve their pain](http://www.ameritox.com/wp-content/uploads/Ananalysisoftheassociationbetweenmarijuanauseandpotentialnonadherence_AAPM2013.pdf).\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":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/14b42/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/f836f/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 200w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/2244e/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 400w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/14b42/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 800w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/16310/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/58556/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/61e93/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 200w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/1f5c5/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 400w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/58556/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 800w,\n/static/7e34c68877ff96cc3e145c1805ba07f4/cc834/f8b895d100570311a6c6ad333646dd9b.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":48,"numPages":5,"currentPage":5,"id":5114,"name":"Chronic Pain","slug":"chronic-pain","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}