I own and operate a landscaping business in Eugene, Oregon.
We handle everything from trimming shrubs, mowing lawns and creating flower beds to snow removal. I am extremely hands-on. We gain a lot of customers through word-of-mouth and quality of service is important. I pull weeds, spread mulch, put down fertilizer, spray weed killer, run the weed whacker and drive the mower. My job requires long hours and is especially labor intensive. Over the years, I have developed issues with arthritis. My fingers frequently swell up like sausages. My knuckles become super painful. I struggle to make a fist or grip a tool. I am unwilling to take pharmaceuticals due to the many, harmful and long-term side-effects. I was so thankful when marijuana was finally legalized in Oregon. Adults 21 years of age and older, with valid identification, are allowed to walk into a dispensary and purchase cannabis. As soon as the doors of the nearby dispensary opened, I made the trip. I consulted with the budtender, explained my issues and asked for recommendations. He suggested a combination of topicals and tinctures. The topicals are applied directly to my hands for localized relief. The cannabinoids penetrate the skin and create fast-acting effects. I look for full-spectrum, CBD-dominant salves and lotions. The tinctures are taken by way of a few drops beneath my tongue. I can also add them to foods and drinks and consume the tincture like an edible. The CBD works to fight off inflammation and lessen pain. Since starting treatment with cannabis, I’ve noticed a huge improvement in my range of motion. I’m able to keep up with the demands of my job.