Research shows that chronic pain is one of the most comon reasons for medical marijuana, and it is a symptom of a herniated disc. If you have herniated disc pain, whether chronic back pain, neuropathic pain, or inflammation, and live in a state with a medical cannabis program, your medical marijuana doctor may recommend medical cannabis.
However, there is no evidence that medical marijuana cures or reverses the structural damage from a herniated disc (bulging disc). It is not typically a first-line or standalone treatment for disc injuries or other medical conditions.
The body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) has a network of receptors (CB1 and CB2) that can help regulate pain, inflammation, as well as other physiological responses. Cannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can bind to these receptors to modulate pain signals, inflammation, and nerve excitability. Medical cannabis may help by:
READ: Is Cannabis the Future of Pain Management? What 2025 Studies Say
States may list broad pain categories-chronic/severe/intractable/neuropathic pain- as qualifying conditions for medical marijuana. This allows a certified medical marijuana doctor to recommend cannabis for back pain, since it can fall under chronic pain.
If you have a herniated disc, these are the basic steps to obtain a medical marijuana card:
For a smoother process, you can use reputable services such as Marijuana Doctors for telemedicine evaluations, access to licensed physicians, dispensary guidance, and streamlined support.
In the U.S., medical cannabis is legal under state law but remains illegal federally, and each state with a medical marijuana program sets its own guidelines and qualifying conditions.
Although many states may not list medical cannabis for spinal or nerve pain explicitly, they often include broad categories such as (chronic/intractable/neuropathic pain). Recommendation and use generally depend on the judgment of a licensed medical marijuana doctor and state laws.
There is no “best” strain or product for herniated disc relief, as medical cannabis efficacy is subject to variables such as individual tolerance, pain levels, type, dosage, consumption method, etc. However, some recommendations include (but are not limited to):
Yes, medical marijuana may relieve inflammation and nerve pain through its interaction with the body’s ECS.
Yes, in most states, you can get a medical marijuana card for chronic pain and, by extension chronic back pain.
Yes, you can get an online evaluation for a herniated disc, though approval for a medical cannabis card still depends on the doctor’s recommendation.
There is no set period for pain eligibility, but approval takes less than 30 minutes at platforms such as Marijuana Doctors. After which, (for some states) you receive your card within 24 hours.
Yes. There are common minor side effects like dizziness, memory issues, and fatigue which is why it is advisable to consult a licensed medical marijuana doctor before use.
Medical marijuana doctors may recommend medical marijuana for herniated discs as a pain-management option. They do not treat herniated discs with medical marijuana.
For some people with back pain, using medical cannabis may allow a reduction in the dependence on opioids, which could reduce opioid-related risks.
You should consult with a healthcare professional before using topical cannabis products for a herniated disc.
No, not all states approve medical marijuana use for chronic pain or back injuries. However, most states do.
A medical marijuana doctor can personalize disc-pain treatment by reviewing your medical records, selecting the most appropriate cannabinoid formulation, creating a dosing and titration plan, and scheduling follow-ups to monitor your response.
Written by Chiagozie Ekemezie
Please allow us to access your location to find local dispensaries.
VIEW ALL DISPENSARIES ➔
