Since I originally posted my response, I have taken to vaping CBD (cannibidiol). the active ingredient in hemp. It is not psychoactive, but it is GREAT for relieving pain and calming anxiety. It is also legal in all 50 states of the U.S., as it is FDA-approved (at least the lab where I get it). I use the Miracle Smoke product - again, a Google search will turn it up.

Weed/pot
I would use it any day over opiates.
There are many kinds.
If it is legal just go to the store and ask for a Strain you need, they will guide you in making your choice.
Sleep and pain use cush.
Pain and energy use stativa.
Cush is relaxing.
Stativa gives you a boost.
If you are new user ask for a low THC level and go from there also dont smoke alot only a hit or two. Over a lil time you will get past the side effects. Start small. Ask someone with smoking experience. Do not do edibles in the beginning.

Until a few years ago, I had never smoked, done drugs, and I was a teetotaler, as only two sips of wine would put me under the table, and I am not a happy drunk. And, I do not like the loss of control that comes with these substances. Many people, though, pushed me to try marijuana as a potential painkiller, and I finally relented, but I was so clueless, I had no idea what to do with it once I had it in my hand. My doctors all know I'm taking it, and they're as supportive as the law will allow them to be. I still don't like how it makes me feel, but it does help the pain, and that, in itself, makes it worth putting up with the rest of the side effects. I'd advise anyone who has never tried something like this to get advice from a reliable source, not the guy selling it to you on the street corner. Start cautiously until you know how you respond, but do give it a try. It infuriates me no end that politicians who do not understand what we, as pain sufferers, experience, get to decide if we can try a remedy that has been proven to help.

I have read up on this extensively and their are different strains with different effects. I wish my state would legalize it because I think it is safer than all the narcotics I have to take!

I am in Canada (which in process of the whole country being legalized for Marijuana. Last year visited a friend. This friend on illegal side but, nonetheless had a joint. He was using to help with pain due to a recent injury at work. I decided to take a couple of "puffs" and 2 hours of complete bliss. First time in recent years where I just laid back in lazy boy chair and felt no pain. My doctor doesn't believe in using "weed" for pain relief. Honestly can't wait for it to be legal... would love to be in that state again. No one knows relief than those who suffer from months to years of pain and for just a moment is alleviated. Almost a better feeling than sex...pretty close.