Patient Perception Regarding Potential Effectiveness of Cannabis for Pain Management

Background: Self-reported cannabis use has increased since its recent legalization in many states. The primary objective of this study is to describe patients’ beliefs regarding the potential effectiveness of cannabis and gauge patient acceptance of these compounds if prescribed by a physician.

Methods: Five hundred fifty-five consecutive new patients in a total joint arthroplasty (TJA) practice completed a questionnaire at their new patient or preoperative encounter. Questions regarding their beliefs about the potential effectiveness of cannabis for pain management were presented to the patient. Each question was scored in accordance to the agreement of the patient. Data were also collected on patient demographics, and current cannabis, tobacco, and/or alcohol use.

Results: Current cannabis use was reported in 20.2% (112/555) of respondents. Patients were interested in using cannabis if prescribed by a physician for acute (75.3%, 418/515) and chronic (74.4%, 415/555) pain. Seventy-seven percent (428/555) of patients believe (strongly agree or agree) that cannabis should be legalized for medical use, whereas only 39% (217/555) strongly agree or agree that cannabis should be legalized for recreational use. Patients strongly agree or agree that cannabis can help with sleep or anxiety, 44.9% (249/555) and 49.4% (274/555) respectively. Most patients had never smoked (53%, 294/555) and drink one or less alcoholic beverage per week (52.1%, 299/555).

Conclusion: Patients believe that cannabis may be helpful for pain management after TJA and are willing to use if prescribed by their orthopedic provider. Further research is warranted to determine if cannabis is a helpful adjunct to pain management in this patient population,