Feeling so frustrated (as usual) ~ 96 year old grandmom’s right shoulder is still bothering her. I’ve seen the xrays...there is no hope for that shoulder. Only way to truly fix it is a total shoulder replacement - which I absolutely will not give consent. She’s tried NSAID’s (no luck); tylenol (nope) and meloxicam (wound up in the hospital with abdominal pain). Also tried OTC pain patches, icy hot, etc (no luck). Currently getting cortisone injections into the shoulder (...even that is a hit or miss, only gets a few days relief if lucky). Recently (12/31) had a fall, xrays showed no fractures but a ton of arthritis. Family doctor gave her antibiotics (likely chest infection was the cause of the fall). While looking online for items that would make our lives easier (researching bed rails, so she can get up easier at night and I won’t have to worry) - came across medical marijuana as a pain relief option. Does anyone have experience with this type of pain relief? Is it easy to obtain? Was thinking maybe get it lotion form to put over the painful shoulder. Or would a pill form be better? Ideally love to talk to someone from PA (where we live) regarding this.... But am open to talking to others who have gone this route.
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Hope the link below comes through. If it doesn't, do a search for "Pennsylvania Medical Marijuana Program." A PA.GOV link should come up at the top.
pa.gov/guides/pennsylvania-medical-marijuana-program/
The type (strain) of cannabis is important. For non-intoxicating pain/anxiety relief, you'll want to look at CBD (cannabidiol). A cannabis-friendly MD can give you more info. Out here, some health stores carry CBD supplements. Sadly, CBD is not cheap -- but I've found it to be effective. Many practitioners would recommend a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC, which is marginally intoxicating (for most). Again, a cannabis-friendly MD can guide you here.
I have the links saved to my computer for medical marijuana. So far from what I’ve read...she would be eligible (in theory) due to having severe chronic pain that traditional medicines can’t help. I don’t know how much it would be to see a doctor who deals with medical marijuana (covered by Medicare?). Unfortunately none of her doctors are on the list (but thinking maybe they’d refer her to an office that does). Weird twist of fate that the urologist I currently see is on the list. Thinking I’d make an appointment for myself and bring grandmom with me...then inquire about getting marijuana. The reason why I originally asked the question - was curious to see if anyone out there in PA (or any other state where it’s legal) has any experience with this... what to expect, how long, etc. Only so much that I can read online but from my life experiences in general - its helpful to hear the voice of experience (of someone else who has gone thru it or something similar).
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