Managing back pain can be challenging, but finding the right cannabis strain could make a significant difference. The ideal strain should be able to address muscle spasms and severe pain, including neuropathic pain often associated with sciatica. While there is no definitive “best” strain for back pain or any other type of pain, cannabinoids and terpenes like THC, CBD, beta-caryophyllene, pinene, linalool, and myrcene are helpful due to their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Best Strains for Back Pain

Natural Green Healing is a trusted source of medical cannabis information. Our research and patient experience suggests these 7 strains for managing back pain:

1. ACDC – With about 1% THC and up to 24% CBD, this sativa-dominant strain is perfect for people who don’t want a psychoactive high. Pinene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene are the dominant terpenes.
2. OG Kush – This high-THC, low-CBD indica-dominant strain is known for its ability to reduce muscle spasms and help users destress. Beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene are the dominant terpenes.
3. Harlequin – This hybrid strain contains up to 10% CBD and is calming and suitable for daytime use. Alpha-pinene, myrcene, and beta-caryophyllene are the dominant terpenes.
4. Northern Lights – A popular medical strain, Northern Lights is potent and famous for the “couch lock” effect. The strain has reportedly helped address pain, including nerve pain in the spinal cord. Myrcene, humulene, pinene, and beta-caryophyllene are the dominant terpenes.
5. White Widow – This indica-dominant hybrid is suitable for nighttime use and might send you into a long, deep sleep. Along with treating pain, some cannabis consumers favor White Widow for fighting anxiety and insomnia. The dominant terpenes are myrcene, pinene, limonene, and humulene.
6. Candyland – This high-THC strain is energizing and helps with muscle spasms and overall tension. Use it during the day, not at bedtime. The terpene profile includes terpinolene, ocimene, limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene.
7. Gorilla Glue – This bedtime strain contains up to 25% THC and has helped some users sleep better while managing severe pain like radicular and axial pain. The primary terpenes are myrcene, limonene, beta-caryophyllene, linalool, and pinene.
8. Blueberry – This balanced strain contains equivalent ratios of CBD and THC and is known for its relaxing properties. Common terpenes in Blueberry include alpha- and beta-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, linalool, and terpinolene.

Book an Appointment Now!

Natural Green Healing makes it easy with Online Appointments to get certification and your medical marijuana card in minutes.

See Which Strain Works for You

Trying different strains can help you find the one that works best for you and the pain you seek to heal. 

Treat your back pain with cannabis products! Natural Green Healing doctors are available to help you quickly apply online for a medical marijuana card, allowing you to obtain cannabis products legally.

How Cannabis Affects Back Pain

Scientific studies have shown that cannabis can help alleviate back pain as well as other types of difficult-to-treat pain, including nerve or neuropathic pain that often affects cancer patients. Cannabis works by binding to receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating pain response and other vital functions in the body. 

CBD and THC are the two main compounds in cannabis that have been cited as potential pain-relieving agents, with CBD being found to ease chronic pain resistant to other treatments and THC also showing beneficial effects in managing pain. Minor cannabinoids like CBG and CBN and terpenes like myrcene and caryophyllene may also contribute to pain relief through the entourage effect. However, cannabis is not a cure for pain and should be considered as a supplemental pain management option after consultation with a doctor, particularly if you are currently taking other medications.

Best Ways to Use Cannabis for Back Pain

There are several ways to use cannabis for back pain relief, and the best method for you depends on your personal preferences and medical history. 

Topicals

Topical cannabis products, such as gels or oils, are a common way to treat acute pain and muscle strains. These products can be applied directly to the affected area, providing targeted relief. Heated topical products can be especially effective for treating back pain in the upper or lower back.

Smoke and Vape

Inhaling cannabis is another way to manage back pain, and it may provide faster relief than topical products. Inhaling marijuana can provide almost instant effects, while topical products can take up to an hour to fully absorb into the skin. However, it’s important to note that inhaling cannabis smoke can also have negative effects on your lungs. Therefore, using vaporizers or edibles may be a safer option for those with respiratory issues.

Edibles

Edibles are cannabis products you eat that contain pain-relieving cannabinoids like THC and CBD, making them potentially effective for treating back pain. The effect can vary depending on an individual’s tolerance, dosage, and cause of back pain. Edibles can have delayed onset and last for several hours, so starting with a low dose is suggested. The marijuana pill form is also available.

What Type Of Cannabis Works For You

Ultimately, the most effective way to use cannabis for back pain relief will depend on your individual needs and preferences. It’s essential to speak with your doctor before using cannabis, especially if you are currently taking other medications. Your doctor can help you determine the best method of administration and dosage for your specific condition.