Marijuana Pain Management Effects Among NCAA Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic
Date
2-19-2025
Faculty Mentor
Jennifer Savage Burgett, Kinesiology; Chris Clark, Kinesiology
Files
Submission Type
Conference Proceeding
Location
2:00-2:10 pm | Houston Cole Library, 11th Floor
Description
Context
An estimated 4.3 million Americans use marijuana medically to improve pain management. In 2024, the NCAA removed marijuana from its banned drug and substance lists. Since the removal of marijuana, athletes are using this substance for pain management for their injuries, rehabilitation, and behavioral health. This critically appraised topic will examine the effects of NCAA athletes (P) concerning marijuana use for pain management (I) as compared to no marijuana use (C) to improve pain relief (O)?
Methods
A comprehensive search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and JSU GEM Finder databases. The search terms used were “Marijuana,” “Cannabis,” “Pain,” “NCAA,” and “Athletes.” Inclusion criteria included studies on NCAA athletes addressing marijuana use for pain management and articles written in the English language. Exclusion criteria were studies focusing on non-athletic individuals and articles that did not address pain management and the use of marijuana. Validity of the selected studies was determined using Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) scale and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scale. One author independently reviewed the studies, scored each paper, and reviewed the completed appraisals to come to a consensus on the study quality.
Results
The literature search retrieved 94 total articles and 90 were excluded based on the exclusion criteria, resulting in four studies. Evidence indicates that marijuana use among athletes can improve oxygenation of tissues, reduce muscle spasm, and enhance pain management. For patients with fibromyalgia, marijuana use displayed benefits in alleviating symptoms such as pain and stiffness, while enhancing relaxation and sleep. Furthermore, marijuana’s anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to recovery and post-exercise treatment. Despite these findings, effectiveness varies among individual athletes. In addition, concerns about behavioral health and performance are limited.
Conclusions
Marijuana has demonstrated positive findings as an alternative for pain management among NCAA athletes. However, varying outcomes and limited evidence dictates the need for future research. Athletic trainers and healthcare providers should remain informed about evolving policies and evidence to provide tailored, evidence-based care to their athletes and patients. This knowledge supports developing treatment plans for athletes that incorporate alternative and traditional pain management methods.
Keywords
student research, kinesiology
Rights
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Disciplines
Kinesiology
Recommended Citation
Muller, Aquriya, "Marijuana Pain Management Effects Among NCAA Athletes: A Critically Appraised Topic" (2025). JSU Student Symposium 2025. 75.
https://digitalcommons.jsu.edu/ce_jsustudentsymp_2025/75
