In terms of its purpose in the field of medicine, marijuana has definitely shown signs of promise. Although it is a potentially addictive, psychoactive substance, the drug has earned popularity as an alternative form of medicine for patients suffering through advanced chemotherapy and intense treatment for HIV/AIDS. In more recent studies, a group of scientists discovered that cannabidiol oil can suppress severe seizures resulting from rare epileptic disorders. One report has also confirmed that marijuana could induce sleep for people enduring long-term insomnia. However, did you realize that cannabis could potentially hold more benefits for athletes instead of opioids, which are more frequently prescribed? Let’s take a closer look at this proposition.
Big Trouble in Little Stadiums
At this time, the United States is still suffering from a severe Opioid Crisis, all stemming from a batch of prescription drugs that (for many years) were believed to be perfectly safe. AS of 2015, over 20,000 deaths occurred as the result of opioid overdoses, while an additional 12,990 heroin-related deaths swept through the country. Unfortunately, the issues with painkiller addiction have also afflicted the world of athletics.
After suffering from major injuries, athletes are typically supplied with opioid painkillers, which doctors readily write prescriptions for. While opioids (under strict control) may not be dangerous, these athletes can consume large quantities of the drug and (more frequently than you could imagine) suffer from opioid addiction. As a response, scientists have suggested a less than conventional alternative to these potentially deadly medications.
A Safe Alternative to Opioids
Interestingly, scientists discovered that marijuana could be a replacement for painkillers, at least in terms of helping people cope with trauma and discomfort. In fact, research shows that the anti-inflammatory potency of THC (the psychoactive agent of in weed) is 20 times stronger than aspirin and 2 times stronger than hydrocortisone.
Scientists argue the key behind the healing process is marijuana’s ability to alleviate stress. Additional reports have also revealed that cannabis can alleviate inflammation by toning down the production of cytokines (cells that promote inflammation after an injury). Likewise, doctors also argue that THC stimulates the release of beta-endorphins, allowing athletes to relax and cope with pain (much easier than they could if they took an opiate).
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug addiction and substance abuse troubles today.
