Cannabis Strains for Phantom Limb Pain

Cannabis Strains for Phantom Limb Pain

What Cannabis Strains Can Help with Phantom Limb Pain from CannabisNet on Vimeo.

Phantom pain is a neuropathic condition that commonly afflicts amputees. It occurs when damaged nerves found on the location of the amputation still sends signals to the brain, which makes it feel like the amputated body part is still there.

Typically, phantom pain sets in right after surgery. Phantom pain may feel different to different people; the symptoms can’t be generalized since it can feel like many things such as itching, pressure, burning, and twisting in the area that has been amputated. The duration of phantom pain also varies from one person to another; for some it can lasts seconds or minutes, while others have to endure it fro hours or even days.

Unfortunately, for patients with phantom pain, finding the right kind of treatment is challenging. It can take some trial and error, and many find no relief from conventional medications. Doctors usually start out with pharmaceutical drugs such as antidepressants and opioids, and sometimes combine it with noninvasive therapies such as nerve stimulation, mirror box therapy, and acupuncture. Minimally invasive treatments are also recommended, such as injections, nerve blocks, and spinal cord stimulation. If everything else hasn’t helped, surgery is also an option.

As you can see with the current forms of treatment available, many of these are undesirable. Pharmaceutical drugs are addicting and may have fatal side effects, and not everyone is willing to go through even minimally invasive treatments.

Fortunately, cannabis can help. These are the 5 best strain for treating phantom pain:

Harlequin is a terrific medical strain for patients with phantom pain. Its 75% sativa and has a very low THC content, usually under 10%. In some cases, the CBD content of Harlequin can reach as much as 11%, making it a top choice for patients who don’t want to get too high. This strain has a delicious sweet and fruity flavor, and produces a relaxing effect ideal for those who are prone to anxiety.

Green Crack is highly recommended for phantom limb pain patients who prefer to medicate with a strain that offers a laser sharp mental focus. Green Crack is renowned for its long-lasting effects as well as the distinct mental clarity that it offers. Some of its other effects include happiness, feelings of euphoria, and improved energy. This makes it ideal for those who also suffer from fatigue, stress, depression, pain, and lack of appetite.

Purple Kush is one of the most powerful indica strains in the world. With an average THC content of 15% and potent sedative properties, few other strains can hold a candle to the painkilling properties of Purple Kush. This strain is recommended for phantom limb patients whose condition makes it difficult to get any rest. Additionally, Purple Kush also delivers a long-lasting high; some users report that its buzz can last for up to 3 hours. Expect a sense of euphoria and happiness, accompanied by a case of the munchies. Purple Kush is also used to treat stress, depression, and headaches.

AK-47 may have an aggressive name, but don’t be fooled: this strain is loved by patients for the relaxing and mellow high it delivers. AK-47 delivers a long-lasting, steady cerebral buzz that will help you stay focused with creative endeavors or social activities. AK-47 has a delicious sour and earthy scent with sweet floral notes. This strain has taken home numerous Cannabis Cup awards, primarily for its high THC content. AK-47 will knock pain right out of the park.

Critical Kush is a relaxing, sedative strain that comes with a soaring THC content and a moderate CBD content. Critical Kush is an excellent nighttime medication for patients with phantom limb pain. It also provides relief from muscle spasms, stress, and pain. Critical Kush has an earthy scent coupled with citrusy, pine, and woody tones. This is a heavy indica well suited for evening use, but too much may send you into a couch lock. Critical Kush is used to treat lack of appetite, depression, anxiety, headaches, and nausea as well.

What are your favorite strains for treating phantom limb pain? Share with us in the comments below.

Marijuana Strains for Phantom Limb Pain