3 Medical Marijuana Strains to Try for Managing Chronic Back Pain

3 Medical Marijuana Strains to Try for Managing Chronic Back Pain

Chronic back pain is one of the most common and debilitating conditions of all time and afflicts millions of individuals everywhere. In mild to severe pain, it can be easily difficult to do common tasks. However, there are other means of handling symptoms beyond the standard, painkillers, and physical therapy, many people are turning to marijuana for its natural energy. Studies have shown that pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and muscle-relaxing properties associated with cannabis can help alleviate chronic back pain. In this article, we will look at three of the best medical marijuana strains that can help your back pain.

1. ACDC: High-CBD, Low-THC Strain

ACDC is a powerful strain for pain relief if you’re looking for a non-psychoactive option. This hybrid strain is known for its high CBD content, with a CBD-to-THC ratio of around 20:That’s why 1 is ideal for those seeking out the therapeutic benefits of cannabis but not the “high” from THC.

What is the reason to have to worry about ACDC for chronic back pain?

  • Anti-inflammatory Properties: The CBD in ACDC works on reducing inflammation in the body that is a big part of chronic back pain.
  • Muscle Relaxation: This strain assists with muscle spasms that are often to blame for back pain.
  • Pain Relief: It is an analgesic, so it is something we know you can tolerate in terms of pain.

Without creating any psychoactive effects, the drug is typically reported by users to be a calm and painless experience and it is suitable for daytime use.

2. Harlequin: Sativa Dominant Hybrid, Balanced

Talking about chronic back pain management another good option is Harlequin because it has the right CBD to THC ratio. Typically with this sativa-dominant hybrid, there will be roughly 5 – 10 % THC, and 7 – 15 % CBD, for a mild, uplifting high while still offering pain relief.

So why Harlequin for Chronic Back Pain?

  • Mild Euphoria: The calming effect of Harlequin helps to relieve the pain without overwhelming sedation or anxiety.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: The CBD in Harlequin will help reduce inflammation as a means of providing relief to those who suffer from back pain due to swelling.
  • Energizing Effect: In contrast to most of the other strains out there, Harlequin’s sativa properties can keep you on your feet while it cushions the body with pain.

This strain is a well-balanced one that will give you pain relief and mental clarity throughout the day.

3. Granddaddy Purple: Indica for Relaxation and Pain Relief.

Granddaddy Purple, or GDP for short, being a high THC indica strain, is notorious for providing potent sedative and pain killing effects for those relying on heavy-duty relief from chronic back pain. This strain contains about 17-23% THC and it’s ideal for the end of the day, to relax and wind down.

Why try Granddaddy Purple for Chronic Back Pain?

  • Sedative Effects: The THC in Granddaddy Purple is very high and makes people very relaxed. It’s good for people with back pain at night.
  • Pain Relief: This strain has some strong analgesic properties that can help curb chronic pain by making the nerves calm and quell difficult situations.
  • Muscle Relaxation: Granddaddy Purple is also helpful for reducing muscle spasms and tightness which is a common problem with those suffering from chronic back pain.

While this is a nice strain to withstand if you feel the need to unwind and switch off, this is one of the most effective strains you can use for nighttime, battling severe pain and proper restful sleep.

Manage Pain Using Cannabis

If you’re interested in learning more about medical marijuana strains for the management of chronic pain and more, visit certamd.com today to get started.

Conclusion

Chronic back pain is a problem that medical marijuana offers as a promising alternative. Whether you’re searching for something with minimal psychoactive effects, such as ACDC, a balanced hybrid for daytime use, Harlequin or some serious indica relief, Granddaddy Purple, there’s a strain for you. It is always recommended that you should always consult with a healthcare professional before you decide to incorporate cannabis into your pain management plan to see what strain you are having the most success with your condition.

CertaMD Editorial Team
CertaMD's Editorial Team consists of seasoned medical professionals and writers dedicated to delivering accurate, up-to-date health information, including insights on medical cannabis. With a commitment to excellence, they ensure content is both accessible and authoritative for healthcare consumers.

Important Medical Information & Disclaimers

Medical disclaimer

The information on this CertaMD page is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

All medical marijuana evaluations and recommendations through CertaMD are performed exclusively by licensed U.S. healthcare providers using secure telemedicine technology, in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations.

Always speak with a qualified physician or other licensed healthcare professional before making decisions about your health, changing existing medications, or starting any new treatment, including medical cannabis.

Source: FDA – Cannabis Research & Drug Approval Process

Individual results and treatment response

Medical cannabis does not work the same way for every patient. Symptom relief can depend on factors such as the type of product (THC/CBD ratio, route of administration), dose, frequency of use, underlying medical conditions, concurrent medications, and lifestyle variables like diet, stress, and sleep.

Because response and tolerability vary, ongoing follow-up with your CertaMD provider is important to review benefits, monitor side effects, and adjust your treatment plan safely over time.

Source: NIH – Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids

Possible risks and side effects

Like any therapeutic option, medical marijuana can cause side effects. Commonly reported effects include dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, red or irritated eyes, increased appetite, headache, and temporary problems with attention, concentration, or short-term memory.

Some patients, especially with higher-THC products, may experience anxiety, rapid heartbeat, worsened mood, or perceptual changes; in rare cases, serious effects such as psychosis, significant mood changes, heart rhythm disturbances, or cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome (recurrent nausea and vomiting) have been reported. If you notice severe, unexpected, or persistent symptoms, stop using cannabis and contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care.

Source: Mayo Clinic – Marijuana: Safety and Side Effects

Legal and regulatory notice

Medical marijuana programs are created and regulated at the state level, and eligibility, product access, and telemedicine rules vary by jurisdiction. Under U.S. federal law, marijuana remains a Schedule I controlled substance, and clinicians typically “recommend” or “certify” medical cannabis use rather than prescribe it in the traditional sense.

Some states require an initial in-person visit before medical cannabis certification, while others allow both initial and renewal evaluations via telehealth; CertaMD operates within the specific requirements of each state it serves.

Sources: DEA – Controlled Substances Act

Telehealth.org – Cannabis Prescribing and Telehealth

Product quality, sourcing, and safety

For your safety, use only medical cannabis products obtained from licensed, state-regulated dispensaries that perform appropriate laboratory testing for potency and contaminants. Unregulated or illicit products may contain pesticides, heavy metals, microbes, or inaccurate THC/CBD concentrations, which can increase health risks and lead to unpredictable effects.

Ask your CertaMD clinician or dispensary pharmacist about product selection, dosing, onset and duration of effects, and how to store products safely away from children and pets.

Source: FDA – What to Know About Cannabis Products

Reporting adverse events and safety concerns

If you experience serious or unexpected side effects while using medical cannabis, contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care when appropriate.

Patients and caregivers in the United States can also report adverse events and product problems to the FDA’s MedWatch program online or by phone at
1-800-FDA-1088, which helps regulators monitor safety trends and protect public health.

Source: FDA – MedWatch Safety & Adverse Event Reporting

See how much you could save with a medical card

Note that this is an estimate of savings and does not constitute a guarantee. Additional taxes in your area or recent changes in local laws may affect these rates. Please verify current regulations in your state.

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