Medical Marijuana and Its Effects on Motor Function in People With Multiple Sclerosis

Medical Marijuana and Its Effects on Motor Function in People With Multiple Sclerosis: An Observational Case-control Study

Medical marijuana is commonly prescribed people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for symptom, e.g. spasticity and pain, management. Unfortunately not much is known about its effects outside the treatment for these 2 symptoms. Several previous studies have suggested people with MS using medical marijuana have lower levels of physical disability and improved walking abilities. A major limitation of these previous studies is that the investigators used subjective measures of motor function. In this proposed observational case-control study the investigators plan to objectively measure multiple domains of motor function, such as: fatigue, strength, and walking ability. No marijuana will be brought on to campus or given to participants.

To investigate the effects of medical marijuana usage on physical function the investigators will employ an observational case-control design. Cases (MS medical marijuana users) will be compared to age, sex, and disease duration matched controls (MS non-cannabis users).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Medically diagnosed with MS,
• 30-60 years of age,
• Moderate disability (Patient Determined Disease Steps score 2-6).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Relapse with the last 60 days,
• High risk for cardiovascular disease (American College of Sports Medicine risk classification),
• Changes in disease modifying medications within the last 45 days,
• Concurrent neurological/neuromuscular disease,
• Hospitalization within the last 90 days,
• Inability to understand/sign informed consent.