Scoliosis is an abnormal or sideways curvature of the spine that can be present in various degrees. Some individuals have drastic curves that require surgical intervention, while others have minimal curves that may be reduced through physical therapy and intentional exercises.
Many people develop scoliosis during childhood when the majority of spine growth occurs, most commonly in girls over the age of 11. To be diagnosed with scoliosis, the spine must have a curvature of at least ten degrees.
There are many different ways that scoliosis can impact someone’s life. Some patients have to wear back braces to help with their curvature, while others have a curvature of the back severe enough to impact their breathing. Dealing with scoliosis can feel isolating and overwhelming, as it can be challenging to get relief through various treatment options.
There are three types of scoliosis: congenital, idiopathic, and neuromuscular. The type of scoliosis someone has will impact their prognosis, their symptoms, and what treatment options may be successful.
Scoliosis is typically simple to diagnose. Some people have curvatures that can be seen with the naked eye, while others need imaging to get a diagnosis.
What Causes Scoliosis?
No one factor has been identified as the cause of scoliosis. Some possible causes of scoliosis include:
- Genes or genetic diseases
- Hormones
- Changes in cell structures
- Spinal injuries
- Tumors
- Congenital factors that occur in the womb
Scoliosis Signs & Symptoms
If you have scoliosis, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Rib cages that rest at different heights
- A head that isn’t centered above the pelvis
- Having one shoulder blade that’s more prominent than the other
- If severe, scoliosis can also cause back pain or even result in difficulty breathing.
Can Cannabis Help Alleviate Pain from Scoliosis?
Scoliosis cannot be cured with medication and can only be managed through braces, surgery, or physical therapy. Because of this, the use of cannabis is likely only beneficial for individuals with severe scoliosis who are experiencing back pain.
Pain can be debilitating for some individuals with severe scoliosis. Back pain can make it challenging to go about daily life, complicating things like walking and sleeping.
Researchers have shown cannabinoids like CBD and THC may be effective at reducing pain in animal studies, but overall, there is a lack of significant clinical evidence around cannabinoids for back pain in humans.1 Cannabis has been demonstrated in research to have fewer adverse side effects than other pain medications and is not as addictive as opioids.2 Research has also found that the use of cannabis for back pain also lowers the usage of prescription opioids.3
A single research study also points out the potential benefits of cannabinoids for patients after having spinal fusion surgery to correct scoliosis and other adult spinal deformities. Researchers found that cannabis users had lower complication rates overall compared to non-cannabis users.4
Legality and Doctor’s Recommendation
To determine if your state considers scoliosis to be a qualifying condition for medical cannabis, check out our Laws & Regulations section for the medical cannabis rules for your state.
If you find that your state recognizes scoliosis or its symptoms as a qualifying medical condition, you can seek a doctor’s recommendation to get your medical cannabis card in your state.
How NuggMD Can Help
NuggMD is the nation's leading medical cannabis technology platform, serving patients in over half the U.S. We’ve connected over 2,000,000 patients with their new medical marijuana doctors face-to-face via our state-of-the-art telemedicine platform.
We believe that every human being has the right to explore the benefits of medical cannabis and are fully committed to helping each patient explore all of their options in their journey to wellness. For further information on whether you qualify for medical cannabis, select your state.
Can you get a medical card for scoliosis?
Every state has different guidelines for qualifying to get a medical cannabis card. If you’re considering getting a medical cannabis card, speak with your doctor about your options.
Will cannabis reverse my scoliosis?
No, cannabis is not a cure for scoliosis.
Do I have to use a product with THC for my scoliosis?
While THC products may be an option for relieving back pain due to scoliosis, CBD may also be effective.
What method of cannabis consumption is best if I have scoliosis?
Many people with scoliosis find that topical solutions are beneficial for localized pain relief.
Can I combine cannabis with other pain relief medications?
Before you mix cannabis with any medication, you should always speak with your doctor.
Is there a chance that cannabis could make my scoliosis worse?
There are no studies suggesting that cannabis could worsen scoliosis. If your scoliosis curve is worsening after cannabis use, stop consumption and speak with your doctor.
Resources
- First L, Douglas W, Habibi B, Singh JR, Sein MT. Cannabis Use and Low-Back Pain: A Systematic Review. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2020;5(4):283-289. Published 2020 Dec 15. doi:10.1089/can.2019.0077
- Reiman A, Welty M, Solomon P. Cannabis as a Substitute for Opioid-Based Pain Medication: Patient Self-Report. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. 2017;2(1):160-166. doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2017.0012
- Takakuwa KM, Hergenrather JY, Shofer FS, Schears RM. The Impact of Medical Cannabis on Intermittent and Chronic Opioid Users with Back Pain: How Cannabis Diminished Prescription Opioid Usage. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2020;5(3):263-270. Published 2020 Sep 2. doi:10.1089/can.2019.0039
- Shah NV, Lavian JD, Moattari CR, et al. The Impact of Isolated Baseline Cannabis Use on Outcomes Following Thoracolumbar Spinal Fusion: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis. Iowa Orthop J. 2022;42(1):57-62.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
