Due to the evolving healthcare landscape, medical marijuana has received significant interest globally. This plant-based drug, containing cannabinoids like THC and CBD, offers a natural approach to managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for many patients. Moreover, MMJ laws are intact to ensure the safe use of MMJ in Florida and some other states. While medical marijuana offers potential benefits, it is essential to adhere to strict regulations and use it responsibly. In many states, specific laws govern the entire supply chain, from cultivation to consumption. You must adhere to state policies and also use your MMJ card for safe cannabis use.
In this article, we will discuss the role of medical marijuana in managing muscular spasms.
What are spasms?
Muscle spasms, commonly known as muscle cramps or twitching, are sudden involuntary contractions in one or a group of muscles. Muscle spasms can lead to the tightening of muscles, which can be very painful in some cases. Spasms are often caused by dehydration, fatigue, stress, and exercise and are usually not a cause for concern.
Spasms usually affect the leg muscles; however, they can also affect the muscles of the arms, back, neck, and other body parts. These contractions can last for a short period but be very painful in some cases.
The ongoing research on marijuana has revealed that it is a considerable option for managing spasms due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It is emerging as an alternative choice to the conventional mode of treatment, and its usage is increasing.
How long does a muscular spasm last?
Muscle spasms can range in severity from little twitches to moderate discomfort to severe agony. The spastic muscle may be visibly distorted or feel harder to the touch than usual. Spasms frequently last between a few seconds and 15 minutes or more, and they may return several times before disappearing. While the cramping sensation may go away within a few minutes, the muscle may continue to hurt for some time afterward.
Some common causes of muscle spasms
The causes of muscle cramps range from simple overuse of muscles to nerve disorders and thyroid issues. Lack of nutrition, stress, muscle overuse, an increase in the demand for blood flow, and several underlying medical disorders are just a few of the factors that can trigger muscle spasms.
Muscle cells may become more prone to spastic and erratic contractions as a result of dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, for instance, sodium, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and other essential nutrients.
Common postures that cause Muscle spasms
Spasms resulting from muscle tension or overuse are frequently felt when holding a position for an extended period or exercising without extending the muscles. Similarly, vigorous exercise can tighten muscles and increase the need for blood flow to the muscles.
Age, extra body weight, and pregnancy raise the risk of muscular cramping. However, the precise reason for a muscle spasm may not always be identified.
Muscle spasms can indicate the following health conditions
Even though most muscle cramps are mild, some may be related to a common medical problem, such as:
Exercise-induced clamps, where discomfort is caused by inadequate blood flow, caused by the constriction of blood-borne arteries in your legs and feet. These cramps often go away immediately after the workout.
Leg cramps can also be caused by a trapped or compressed nerve and nerve stiffness in your spine or lumbar stenosis. The discomfort often becomes worse as you walk more. Your symptoms will lessen or postpone if you move in a somewhat flexible manner.
Scientists have conducted several studies to find an alternative therapeutic option for managing the spasms because existing drugs cannot lessen and manage the symptoms.
Marijuana as an alternative drug for many people with this condition, has been the subject of discussion and research for many years. Recent studies suggest that Marijuana, owing to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, is a good choice.
Can Medical Marijuana Manage Muscle Spasms?
The legalization of Marijuana has enabled several states to opt for medical Marijuana as an alternate choice for pain relief and other chronic diseases. Research backs the fact that Cannabis and its extracts can be used to manage muscular spasms effectively.
THC, a psychotropic cannabinoid, can reduce the immune system's reaction to muscle injuries and can deactivate the body's inflammatory proteins. Additionally, it activates the body's endocannabinoid system, also called ECS, a network of cell receptors that contributes to your perception of pain, which can be brought on by inflammation and muscular twitches.
When medicinal Marijuana is consumed, THC and CBD, another cannabinoid, connect to cannabinoid receptors in your ECS.
By attaching to cannabinoid receptors, THC triggers an anti-inflammatory response, preventing, for instance, inflammation and muscular spasms after an injury. However, the efficacy of MMJ varies for every person, thereby necessitating the role of a marijuana doctor.
