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Glossary

Pain

Pain is a complex and subjective sensation that signals that something may be wrong or injured in the body. Pain is a protective mechanism, alerting us to injuries or illnesses that need attention. Pain can be acute, arising suddenly and typically associated with a specific cause, or chronic, persisting over time and often resistant to treatment.

What are the common types of pain?

 

  1. Acute pain: Sudden and sharp, often resulting from injuries like cuts, burns, or fractures. Acute pain is often quickly resolved through medical treatment
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  3. Chronic pain: Persistent pain lasting more than three to six months, often without a clear cause. Conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy cause chronic pain, as does nerve damage from injuries or surgeries.
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  5. Nociceptive pain: Caused by tissue damage or inflammation, such as from surgery or injury. It can be somatic (affecting skin, muscles, or bones) or visceral (affecting internal organs).
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  7. Neuropathic pain: Resulting from nerve damage or dysfunction, leading to sensations like burning, tingling, or numbness. Neuropathic pain is often chronic and difficult to treat.
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  9. Psychogenic pain: Associated with psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or depression. It can present as physical pain without a clear cause, making diagnosis and treatment challenging.
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  11. Referred pain: Felt in a different area of the body than where the problem exists. For example, heart attacks may cause pain in the jaw or left arm.

 

How can medical cannabis help with pain?

 

Medical cannabis is increasingly recognised for its potential in pain management. Here's how it works:

  • Cannabinoids: Compounds like THC and CBD interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating pain, inflammation, and mood.
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  • Pain relief: Cannabinoids can reduce nociceptive and neuropathic pain by modulating pain signals and reducing inflammation.
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  • Alternative to opioids: Cannabis offers a new and safe option for pain relief, potentially reducing the reliance on pharmaceuticals such as opioids and their associated risks.
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To find out if you are eligible for medical cannabis treatment in the UK, check out our fast and free medical cannabis eligibility checker.

If you would like to learn more about medical cannabis in the UK, Releaf is here to help. In addition to this medical cannabis glossary, we have an extensive blog and education hub to explore, both filled with resources that UK medical cannabis patients, prescribers, and educators have been asking for.