The Many Benefits of Medical Marijuana: Chronic Pain, Arthritis, Epilepsy, and More

Across the country, more and more patients are turning to medical marijuana for safe, effective relief from chronic conditions like pain, arthritis, epilepsy, and more. Research continues to support marijuana’s therapeutic value, and states are responding by expanding access to this natural alternative.

Here in Nebraska, medical marijuana is legal for patients with qualifying conditions. However, the state has not yet opened a fully operational medical marijuana program, recent ballot measures and legislative developments suggest that change is on the horizon. For Nebraskans suffering from qualifying conditions, now is the time to learn about the benefits of medical marijuana, and why obtaining a medical marijuana card will be essential.

Where Things Stand

As of 2025, Nebraska has some of the strictest marijuana laws in the U.S., but change may be coming. Although recreational marijuana remains illegal, the state has decriminalized possession of small amounts, treating it as a civil infraction rather than a criminal offense for first-time possession under one ounce. Repeat offenses, however, still carry penalties, including jail time.

More importantly, Nebraska voters approved two medical marijuana measures in the 2024 election, and legal challenges are underway to determine whether the results will be upheld. If allowed to proceed, these laws would formally establish a legal medical marijuana program and allow qualifying patients to access licensed dispensaries.

Until those challenges are resolved, patients must wait, but that doesn’t mean they can’t prepare or explore the many ways marijuana may improve their quality of life.

Why Medical Marijuana Is the Right Choice

For those struggling with chronic conditions, medical marijuana offers real, science-backed relief. It works naturally with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate pain, inflammation, and other key functions.

Unlike many pharmaceutical drugs, marijuana is non-lethal, non-addictive for most patients, and often results in fewer side effects. That’s especially important in Nebraska, where opioid use and chronic pain are serious concerns.

When access becomes available, having a medical marijuana card will be the only legal way to purchase marijuana from licensed dispensaries. Cardholders will benefit from safe, regulated products and personalized treatment plans developed in partnership with certified medical professionals.

A Leading Reason for Medical Marijuana Use

Chronic pain is one of the leading reasons patients seek medical marijuana. Conditions like fibromyalgia, nerve pain, back pain, and post-surgical discomfort are often hard to manage with traditional medications. Research shows marijuana can reduce pain signals in the brain, offering relief without the dependency risks of opioids. Many patients report better sleep, long-term comfort, and improved quality of life.

Arthritis patients also benefit. Over one in five report using marijuana to ease joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. A large study of rheumatoid arthritis patients found marijuana use was linked to lower in-hospital mortality, reduced anxiety and depression, and nearly 10% lower hospital costs. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effects, marijuana, especially in topicals and infused oils, may offer meaningful daily relief.

Epilepsy further shows marijuana’s medical potential. In many states, patients with treatment-resistant epilepsy, including children, have seen major seizure reductions from CBD-rich products. The FDA-approved drug Epidiolex confirms marijuana’s value in treating epilepsy. When Nebraska’s program is active, patients with seizure disorders may finally gain access to this vital treatment.

What Nebraskans Can Do Now

Although there is no way to access medical marijuana yet, there are steps Nebraskans can take now to prepare for the launch of the medical marijuana program. Stay up to date on developments from state lawmakers and advocacy groups like Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana. Gather your medical records, as you’ll need documentation of a qualifying condition once registration opens. It’s also a good idea to talk to your doctor now about whether medical marijuana could be right for your symptoms. Most programs require an evaluation and a physician’s recommendation to get a card, so understanding the process ahead of time can help you avoid delays.

With growing public support, promising research, and voter-approved ballot measures, Nebraska is closer than ever to launching a medical marijuana program, though legal challenges are still being resolved. Once the program is operational, a medical marijuana card will be the only safe and legal way to access marijuana for treatment. It will provide patients with access to tested products, medical guidance, and long-overdue relief across the state.

Final Thoughts

Medical marijuana has helped patients across the country manage chronic pain, arthritis, epilepsy, PTSD, and more, often when other treatments failed. While Nebraska’s program is still in development, the science and momentum are clear: relief is on the way.

If you suffer from a qualifying condition and are looking for natural, effective alternatives, now is the time to prepare. When the state finalizes its program, you’ll want to be first in line for legal access to medical marijuana.

Get Ready for Medical Marijuana

We're excited to help you get approved for medical marijuana as soon as Nebraska rolls out the medical marijuana program. It shouldn't be much longer! 

Our telemedicine appointments provide an easy and convenient way for you to meet with our doctors and receive a medical marijuana recommendation, all from the comfort of your own home!

Don’t delay! Reserve an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate marijuana doctors! We’ll set up an appointment for you just as soon as Nebraska's medical marijuana market is up and running. You’ll even save $25 off the cost of the evaluation when you reserve your appointment today! 

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Doctors Who Care.

Relief You Can Trust.

Helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.

If you have any questions, call us at (833) 781-6665, or simply reserve a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!