Most of us think of arthritis as a condition primarily affecting the elderly. But the truth is that among the 40 million arthritis sufferers in the U.S., 35% of them are under the age of 65.
This is a huge chunk of the population that, without the plague of arthritis, would be expected to have an active, pain-free life in front of them. It’s no wonder that patients seek the relief of medical marijuana for arthritis pain.
Does Marijuana Help Arthritis?
Despite some cannabis companies claiming to treat arthritis, the FDA and Federal Trade Commission have issued warning letters due to the lack of evidence that medical cannabis can cure this condition. Although it’s not a cure, cannabis might aid in alleviating some arthritis symptoms.
A 2020 review highlights that while high-quality studies on its effectiveness in humans for joint diseases are limited, anecdotal evidence and animal studies suggest potential benefits.
One of the cannabinoids, CBD, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which could help reduce arthritis pain. The way CBD works in the body remains somewhat unclear.
However, a study from 2020 provides insight, indicating that CBD can lessen the production of rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts. These molecules play a role in the deterioration of cartilage, hinting at CBD’s potential in managing arthritis discomfort.
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List of Best Medical Marijuana Strains for Arthritis Pain
With the dozens of cannabis strains available in any dispensary, which ones are the best for treating arthritis symptoms? We’ve taken a look around and found a few that come highly recommended for treating the discomfort that comes from both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Cannatonic — Low-THC Strain for Arthritis
This hybrid strain is one of the most common in the U.S., and for good reason. When it comes to pain relief, Cannatonic offers a high level of inflammation-fighting CBD (about 10 – 17%) and a relatively low level of THC (about 6%).
The short-lived high won’t put you out of commission, allowing you to get up and enjoy the mobility that comes with relief from arthritis pain. This strain is so common that you should be able to walk into almost any dispensary and ask for it by name. If they don’t carry this specific variety, they’ll at least know what you’re talking about so you can find something with similar properties.
Skywalker OG — High-THC Cannabis Strain for Pain
Unlike Cannatonic, this indica-dominant strain offers much higher THC levels that usually land around 20% – 25%. It provides a relaxed high that many users report fading into a peaceful sleep.
For this reason, it’s a popular choice for those looking to cope with chronic pain due to illness or injury. Arthritis users can expect relief from pain, but this strain may not support a great deal of activity while it’s being used.
Harlequin — High-CBD Medical Marijuana for Arthritis
This strain is a descendant of Colombian Gold, Nepali Indica, Thai, and even Swiss strains. This hybridization has created a structure that offers a 5:2 ratio of CBD:THC.
This sativa-dominant strain offers ample pain relief without a euphoric high, and unlike other high-CBD strains, the CBD:THC ratio seems to stay fairly consistent from plant to plant.
Canna Tsu — A Cannabis Strain for Staying Active
Another CBD-rich strain that offers a clear-headed experience paired with potent inflammation relief. If you want to stay active while still taking advantage of the pain-fighting qualities of medical marijuana, Canna Tsu could be exactly what you’re looking for.
To summarize:
| Strain Name | Type | THC Level | CBD Level | Effects | Best For |
| Cannatonic | Hybrid | Low (about 6%) | High (10 – 17%) | Short-lived high, allows mobility, pain relief | Arthritis pain relief, inflammation |
| Skywalker OG | Indica-Dominant | High (20% – 25%) | Not specified | Relaxed high, may lead to sleep, pain relief | Chronic pain, relaxation, sleep |
| Harlequin | Sativa-Dominant | Moderate | High | Ample pain relief without euphoric high | Arthritis pain relief, consistent effects |
| Canna Tsu | Hybrid | Not specified | High | Clear-headed, potent inflammation relief, maintains activity | Staying active, inflammation relief |
Medical Marijuana for Chronic Pain
There’s no reason that you should have to suffer the full effects of pain that arthritis inflicts on so many people. Smoked, vaporized, or prepared in edibles, certain strains of medical marijuana can help you enjoy a full life that’s not limited by chronic pain.
Give Elevate Holistics the chance to be a partner in your pain-relief and you’ll wonder why you ever did it any other way. Our network of medical professionals and premium dispensaries can help you permanently put your pain in the rear-view mirror. Get in touch with us now and get your life back!
