A fairly broad term used for any disease or damage that effects the spinal cord.
Spinal cord disease or injury is a fairly broad term used for any disease or damage that effects the spinal cord. Extending from the neck to lower back, it is full of nerves responsible for movement and sensation. Symptoms related to the spinal cord can vary greatly and may include pain, altered sensation, numbness, muscle weakness, or muscle spasms. Damage to the nerve fibers can affect movement in your arms or legs, bladder control, sexual function, even the ability to breath.
How can Medical Marijuana Help patients with Spinal Cord Disease or Injury?
A positive link between marijuana and the management of symptoms related to spinal cord injury has been known for years. In 2014, the Spinal Cord Injury Wellness Summit spoke of how well medical marijuana works for nerve pain and muscle spasticity. It can also enhance the effects of other anti-spasticity medications you may also be taking. Studies throughout the years have found cannabis extract to give significant pain relief and improvement in bladder control with minor side effects. Recent studies also show promise in cannabis potentially improving recovery after a spinal cord injury as well as easing symptoms related to the injury.