Pain management with cannibis

After three brain surgeries and two cases of meninitis that nearly killed me over a three month period, I developed a severe chronic pain disorder diagnosed as Thalamic Pain Syndrome.  I'm on heavy doses of opiates and benzodiazpenes to manage the pain, but every time the doc increases the opiates, I feel good/normal, like my old self for about 3 or 4 weeks, then the pain returns to the point that I can't stand for more than a minute or two without my legs crumpling under me. The pain is intense stabbing pain all over my body accompanied by severe cramping in my calves and lower back.  Despondancy is my closest friend.  I get hopeful, think we've found a way to manage the pain, then sorely disappointed.  I read in several reputable journals that cannibis has beeen found to be quite effective in treating central pain disorders.  Has anyone else tried it for this use.  I've never abused drugs or taken street drugs but now in MA, pot has been decriminalized under possession of one ounce. I'm thinking I might try it because my sister who is a surgeon says its likely to be dless danerous than opiates in the long term and perhaps more effective.  Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[sandee1818]

I think there are way too many other options available. With this drug as it is illegal , You will end up in trouble with the law and that will cost you dearly. I am not aginst it for the purose of pain management I just belive that ALL other options should be tried first. Also it will destroy your lungs and brain cells. Whoever told you it was safer than the prescibed medications for pain is mistaken.