Now taking on new patients • Free consultations for life • No repeat prescription fees • Same day dispatch
Medicann Logo

Medical Cannabis for Pain Conditions

01 back pain vector

Chronic pain affects over a third of adults in the UK according to the NHS and can have a devastating impact on daily life. Conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain syndromes can limit mobility, reduce quality of life and lead to emotional distress. While many people turn to traditional medications, medical cannabis for pain relief has emerged as a promising treatment for those suffering from these conditions.

What is Chronic Pain?

Chronic pain is defined as pain that persists for more than 12 weeks, often continuing long after the initial injury or illness has healed. This type of pain can be caused by a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, nerve damage and inflammatory diseases. The pain can be constant or intermittent and may range from mild to severe. For many people, chronic pain becomes a long-term health challenge, leading to reduced mobility and significant emotional distress.

Common Pain Conditions Treated with Cannabis

  • Arthritis
    Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. The most common form, osteoarthritis, is primarily linked to gradual wear and tear of the joint cartilage over time, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation and joint damage.

  • Fibromyalgia
    Fibromyalgia is a condition characterised by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tenderness in specific areas of the body. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, but it is thought to be related to abnormal pain processing in the brain and nervous system. Along with muscle pain, fibromyalgia can cause sleep disturbances, cognitive issues, and emotional distress.

  • Neuropathic Pain
    Neuropathic pain, or nerve pain, caused by damage or dysfunction in the nerves, leading to abnormal pain signals. It is often described as burning, shooting, or electric shock-like pain, sometimes with tingling, numbness, or sensitivity to touch.

Traditional Treatment Methods for Chronic Pain

Unlike acute pain, there’s no simple treatment method for chronic pain. Instead, it’s important to find pain management strategies. Your GP may advise:

  • Medication, such as opioids, anti-depressants or gabapentinoids

  • Pain relief injections

  • Activity and exercise, like a daily walk, swim or exercise class

  • Pain management programme (PMP) - a series of group sessions that may include gentle exercise, mindfulness and open discussion.

How Medical Cannabis Can Help with Chronic Pain

Cannabis contains compounds known as cannabinoids, which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate a variety of functions, including pain sensation, inflammation, and mood. The two most widely recognised cannabinoids are THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

THC is the psychoactive component of cannabis that can produce feelings of euphoria or a ‘high’ but it also has pain-relieving properties. CBD, on the other hand, is non-psychoactive and is believed to reduce inflammation and pain without causing any intoxicating effects. For some patients, CBD oil for pain management may be prescribed as part of a wider cannabinoid-based treatment plan, depending on their symptoms, previous treatments, and clinical history.

Efficacy of Cannabis in Treating Pain

A 2024 systematic review of cannabis-based medicines (CBPMs) for chronic pain found that some patients experienced reductions in pain intensity, as well as improvements in sleep and overall quality of life. Evidence was strongest in certain types of chronic pain, particularly neuropathic pain. CBPMs may help some patients manage chronic pain, but suitability and potential benefit must always be assessed by a specialist doctor on a case-by-case basis.

What Type of Cannabis Treatment is Best for Pain?

There is no single standard prescription for chronic pain. Treatment is tailored to your individual symptoms, diagnosis, and previous treatment history. Depending on your clinical assessment, you may be prescribed CBD, THC, or a combination of both. These can be provided in a range of formats, including cannabis oil, capsules, or dried flower for vaporisation.

During your initial consultation, a specialist doctor will assess your eligibility and discuss which option may be most appropriate for managing your chronic pain. This could include CBD oil for pain relief or a THC-based preparation, depending on your specific needs and circumstances.

Patient Testimonials

“I recently signed up with Medicann for help with pain management, and they honestly exceeded my expectations. The whole process from registering to getting approved, was quick, smooth, and really professional. Everyone I dealt with was brilliant. I sent over my medical info, had a call with Dr Sunny, and was approved shortly after.”

Combining Other Treatment Options with Cannabis

While cannabis for pain relief may be prescribed as part of a treatment plan, it is often used alongside other supportive therapies. Combining medical cannabis with physical therapy, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes like exercise and diet can further improve pain management and enhance overall well-being.

Explore Eligibility for Medical Cannabis

If chronic pain continues to affect your daily life despite trying standard treatments, you may be eligible for a specialist assessment. Medicann Clinics is a specialist-led UK medical cannabis clinic offering free consultations, no repeat prescription fees, and same-day UK despatch.


You can check your eligibility online today to take the next step toward personalised support.