Spinal Muscular Atrophy & Medical Cannabis

When the spinal nerve cells that control muscle-movement are genetically affected via spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), voluntary muscle movements are limited, and as a result, a person will be confined to a wheelchair. Spinal muscular atrophy disrupts the brain and body signaling interface and eventually leads to inactivity in the muscles and causes them to shrink significantly.

When children are diagnosed with the disease, the effects are typically more progressive. In adults, the progression will be dependent on the severity and specific genetic type of malformation that is causing the disorder.

Spinal muscular atrophy is slowed down via certain medications, but over the past few years, several studies are showing promising outcomes with medical marijuana as a first-line of defense.

Molecular researcher at the University of Bonn Germany, Dr. Andras Bilkei-Gorzo has been studying the effects of cannabis on the neuro-
molecular makeup and neuroinflammatory conditions for many years. He states, “At first sight, it is striking that cannabinoid agonists, substances known to impair cognitive functions, could be beneficial in neurodegenerative cognitive disorders. However, cannabinoid receptor activation could reduce oxidative stress and excitotoxicity, suppress neuroinflammatory processes, and thus alleviate the symptoms of neurodegenerative motor and cognitive diseases.”

Cannabis is showing remarkable outcomes for many patients with neuromuscular conditions like muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy.

Cannabis Receptors
Our brain and nerve cells have cannabinoid receptors, so our bodies naturally react to cannabis (medical marijuana). The structure of cannabis interacts directly with our cells. Our natural endocannabinoid system works synergistically with medical marijuana, creating a multitude of beneficial reactions in the body. The endocannabinoid cells have tiny receptors that take in chemicals and produce responses. This natural system in our bodies regulates things like mood, sleeping, immunity, pleasure, memory and much more.

Medical marijuana is made up of THC and CBD. The CBD is known to bind to receptors and is thought to regenerate cells and brain function, while THC helps to relax and alleviate the physical symptoms of apprehension. There is a collaborative effect between these chemicals when taken together. This synergistic effect means the ratio of THC and CBD can be manipulated for the patient’s benefit.

Want To Get Confidential Information On How Medical Cannabis Can Help You?

The Healing Center Medical Clinic (THCMC) provides professional and private medical cannabis evaluations

The Healing Center
Medical Clinic
5240 Bank Street, Suite 1 & 2
Fort Myers FL 33907
239-887-3887
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