Ankylosing Spondylitis
Medical cannabis can help provide patients with a natural option for managing pain and inflammation associated with ankylosing spondylitis, improving quality of life for many patients.
Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of arthritis that causes inflammation in the ligaments of the spine, which can only be seen on an X-ray. As well as the spine, this condition may be found in some other areas of the body. It causes pain and stiffness. In the worst cases, vertebrae within the spine can fuse together and restrict movement.
Symptoms
Episodes of pain and stiffness can occur, which may worsen if the vertebrae fuse together and limit flexibility. Depending on the severity, other symptoms can include fatigue, and arthritis pain elsewhere.
Treatments
Whilst there’s no cure for ankylosing spondylitis to date, treatment options are available to help manage the associated pain and symptoms, and delay progression. Treatments could include physical therapy to improve mobility, medications to manage pain and inflammation (such as corticosteroids), and in severe cases, surgery. Medical cannabis can be used as an alternative form of relief due to its positive effects on inflammation and pain.
15.3%
In a study of 2900 patients with rheumatologic diseases, 15.3% who used cannabis saw improvements in pain
64%
A 2014 study on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis found a 64% average decrease in pain
45%
A 2014 study on the therapeutic benefits of cannabis found a 45% average decrease in insomnia, often associated with chronic pain
38.7%
A 2023 study found 38.7% of adults with chronic pain found cannabis led to decreased use of physical therapy
Get high quality medicinal cannabis fromthe doctor to your door.
Word from our expert
Dr Sunil Arora Chief Medical Officer
Those living with ankylosing spondylitis pain can experience relief through medical cannabis.
Chronic pain from stiff joints and a potentially fused spine, coupled with associated symptoms of inflammatory arthritic diseases (like fatigue), can be challenging.
At Emerald, our team of experts can help you explore medical cannabis treatments for ankylosing spondylitis that work for you, providing you with a safe, natural option to restore balance in your life.
