For the past few years, I’ve had issues with arthritis in my hands.
The symptoms flare up at certain times of the year.
My fingers swell and my knuckles ache. It can be difficult to make a fist. I struggle with everyday tasks such as buttoning a jacket, tying my shoes or braiding my air. It’s nearly impossible to open jars. Typing on my laptop is painful. That becomes a big problem, because I work by way of my computer. I considered a potential prescription from a doctor, but was unwilling to risk the long-term side-effects. I try to stay away from synthetic pharmaceuticals and prefer more natural remedies. When I was researching potential treatments, I came across success stories from arthritis sufferers who had turned to medical marijuana. Reading those convinced me to arrange an appointment with a local doctor who provides medical marijuana recommendations. The process to get my MMJ card wasn’t all that difficult or time-consuming. The cost was a bit aggravating, and the card is only valid for one year. However, it gave me access to a wide assortment of medical cannabis at the local dispensary. I have found that a combination of tinctures, edibles and topicals work well to alleviate my symptoms. I apply cannabis-infused ointments directly to my sore fingers. With sublingual absorption of the cannabinoids, tinctures offer fast-acting effects. The edibles take a few hours to provide relief but include long-lasting and more intense effects. I choose products with a higher CBD to THC ratio. CBD has proven effective in treating chronic pain and inflammation.