A Limb no Longer There

It never fails, whenever we notice someone sans an extremity, we can’t help but wonder what they went through while simultaneously feeling compassionate concern.  Whether or not you have a loved one who’s suffer through an amputation or know a soldier who lost a body part in war, we’re humbled to have what they do not.  The causes that lead to amputation are varied, but it can be a blow to body, mind and soul.  “Amputation is the loss or removal of a body part such as a finger, toe, hand, foot, arm or leg. It can be a life changing experience affecting your ability to move, work, interact with others and maintain your independence. Continuing pain, phantom limb phenomena and emotional trauma can complicate recovery.”  Medical marijuana may alleviate the aftershocks of amputation and sooth the process.

One of the excruciating side effects of amputation is the phenomenon of phantom limb pain (PLP); often a sequela of amputation, is the perception of pain or discomfort in a limb that is no longer there. Currently, this post-amputation sensation is reported by approximately 60%–80% of amputees. “Patients with PLP complain of various sensations including burning, stinging, aching, and piercing pain with changing warmth and cold sensation to the amputated area which waxes and wanes. Onset of symptoms may be elicited by environmental, emotional or physical changes.”

How is PLP managed? Patients may go through a myriad of traditional and conventional treatments including opioids and other prescription pain killers.  In 2016, Meridith Holt’s primary physician decided it was time to try legalized marijuana to relieve the torment she has been suffering since 2006, when she was dismembered in an auto crash. “It’s all been an educated guess at trying various strains and modes of consumption, taking detailed notes about my sensations before and after trying them and finding my own regimen. It’s been worthwhile, because I’ve been able to reduce my opioid intake and have better pain control. In 2016, there were more than 44,000 deaths attributable to opioids in the U.S. No cannabis‑related deaths have ever been recorded.” Perhaps the day is near, when patients won’t have to guess which hybrid cannabis strain is the best to treat their condition and professionals can recommend dosages for the best outcome.

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) includes medical marijuana and cannabinoid therapy, which have reportedly helped with many of the associated consequences of PLP.  These include:

• Inflammation
• Neuropathic pain
• Psychological burdens
• PTSD
• Insomnia
• Seizures
• Muscle tension and spasms
• Emotional wellness

As one patient described his experience, “(t)he agony of feeling my left foot crushed, all day, every day … the associated depression and despair left me unable to function.”  Medical experts theorize that this agonizing pain is the result of the unresolved mixed signals in the central nervous system, specifically between the peripheral nerves and the brain; despite the limb being gone, those peripheral nerves remain intent on communicating.

Which cannabis strains are best overall for mitigating the pain and agony associated with PLP?

These medical marijuana strains reportedly contain cannabinoid levels of 15-25% THC, 1-3% CBD and 1-3% CBG. Patients who use them seek relief from psychological burdens, such as PTSD, insomnia and neuropathic pain.

Granddaddy Purple – Justahuman (verified purchase), “This one is great taste like the name says. Grapes it’s mellow laid back and gets you feeling right but functioning.”

Skywalker OG – Michael Akins (verified purchase), “Hands down my fav go to indica cart. Definitely relaxing after a long work day. Feel good and up tho. Sometimes can’t help but smile.”

Blueberry Kush – William M. (verified purchase), “this is my favorite indica and probably my favorite cart overall. it tastes amazing, has a very sweet flavor and tastes like berries. is also smooth but hits hard and gives a very potent relaxing feeling. I hope this one stays forever; Blueberry Kush is incredible.”