Leg injuries are more common than you think – medical marijuana can be one of things to make it better.

Almost 10 million people in the US and Canada get a leg injury each year. It can be rough and painful.  The Boston Celtics are dealing with one with Jayson Tatum, and it is upsetting their immediate future plans. The top five injuries include torn ACL, torn Achilles tendon, bone fracture, hamstring strains and shin splints. All painful, all taking time to heal and all needing help. The good news is there is a common aide to these injuries. Here is how medical marijuana helps with leg injuries. Medical marijuana is increasingly recognized as a promising aid in the recovery from leg injuries, including broken bones and torn ligaments. Its therapeutic potential lies primarily in its ability to reduce pain, control inflammation, and, in some cases, directly promote the healing process. One of the most immediate benefits of medical marijuana for leg injuries is its effectiveness in managing pain. Both tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the primary compounds in cannabis, interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to modulate pain signals and reduce discomfort. This can be especially valuable for patients recovering from fractures or ligament tears, as it offers a natural alternative to traditional painkillers, which often come with significant side effects or risk of dependency.

The anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis help decrease swelling and support the body’s natural healing response, making it easier for patients to engage in physical therapy and regain mobility.

Beyond symptom management, emerging research suggests that cannabinoids, particularly CBD, may play a direct role in bone repair. Studies have shown that CBD can significantly enhance the healing of bone fractures, improving bone volume and mineral density during recovery.Animal studies indicate that CBD not only provides pain relief but also promotes the formation of stronger, healthier bone tissue compared to conventional treatments like NSAIDs. This means that patients using medical marijuana may experience faster and more robust recovery from broken bones.

For torn ligaments and other soft tissue injuries, medical marijuana’s pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce discomfort and swelling, allowing for more effective rehabilitation. Some evidence also points to cannabinoids aiding in muscle relaxation and reducing spasms, which are common complications following leg injuries. Recovery from serious leg injuries often requires adequate rest and a positive mental outlook. Medical marijuana can assist by improving sleep quality and alleviating anxiety or depression that may accompany prolonged recovery periods. Better sleep supports muscle and tissue repair, while improved mood can enhance motivation and adherence to rehabilitation programs. Importantly, medical marijuana is considered by many clinicians to have a more favorable side effect profile compared to opioids and some other prescription medications commonly used for pain management after orthopedic injuries or surgery. As research continues, more patients and healthcare providers are turning to cannabis as a holistic, patient-centered approach to healing.

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

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