From Vicodin to Vaping: How Cannabis Is Changing Pain Treatment Choices

In this episode we meet Christine Claypoole, a dental hygienist whose life shifted dramatically after discovering cannabis. She recounts years of chronic pain from her work, a period on prescribed painkillers she eventually tapered off, and how a single experience with a vape pen brought immediate relief. Now living in a small, conservative town, Christine quietly uses cannabis to manage pain and anxiety and has begun sharing her story to help others consider this plant as a safe, effective option to improve quality of life.

Features

• Release Date: Monday, May 29th, 2023
• Episode Number: Season 1, Episode 18
• Special Guest: Christine Claypoole

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Why You Will Love This Episode

Christine, 51, began life believing cannabis was simply a harmful “drug.” After decades working as a dental hygienist left her with chronic neck and back pain, she relied on prescribed pain medications but found they offered only short-lived relief and left her feeling dependent. She ultimately weaned herself off those medications and explored natural approaches.

Her turning point came at a Steelers game when a cousin offered a vape pen. One inhalation eased her pain almost immediately. That experience led Christine to research cannabis, obtain a medical marijuana card, and adopt cannabis into her wellness routine. It helped not only with pain but also revealed and eased underlying anxiety she had not recognized before.

Christine now experiences better sleep, reduced pain, and an improved mood that benefits her family life and relationships. Though she grew up in a community where cannabis was stigmatized, she’s begun opening up about her journey to educate others, especially parents and people seeking alternatives to opioids.

Tune in to hear how cannabis helped Christine reclaim comfort, function, and joy—and learn practical insights for those curious about using cannabis as a tool for chronic pain and overall wellbeing.

Full Transcript

Announcer: Welcome to the Well With Cannabis Podcast, a show dedicated to sharing life-changing stories of people who live well with cannabis and teaching you how to do the same. Meet your host, Emily Kyle, a registered dietitian nutritionist and certified holistic cannabis practitioner. Emily changed her life with the help of cannabis and now helps others explore this plant thoughtfully and safely.

Each week you’ll hear personal stories, practical guidance, and encouragement for your own cannabis journey. Whether you’re curious or experienced, these conversations offer real-life perspectives on how cannabis can support healing, rest, and renewed enjoyment in everyday life.

Disclaimer: This podcast is intended for adult audiences and may cover sensitive topics including mental health, substance use, and plant medicine. Content is informational and educational and does not replace medical advice. If any episode raises concerns for you, please reach out to a trusted professional.

Emily: Welcome back to the Well With Cannabis Podcast. Today I’m talking with Christine Claypoole, who grew up strongly opposed to cannabis but had a dramatic change of heart after finding it helped her chronic pain. Christine, thank you for joining.

Christine: Thanks for having me.

Christine: I didn’t grow up around cannabis and was taught it was harmful. My family didn’t drink or use marijuana, and the cultural message was clear: avoid it. When I met my husband and learned he occasionally used, I initially dismissed him. Over time, after working as a dental hygienist for many years, I developed chronic pain and was prescribed pain medication. Although I followed the prescriptions, I realized I’d become dependent and the pills weren’t giving me lasting relief. I tapered off and tried supplements and other natural approaches but still lived with pain for years.

Christine: The change came unexpectedly at a Steelers game when a cousin offered me a vape pen. One small hit eased the pain in my neck instantly—not the way I expected, but the relief was profound. I got curious, researched cannabis, and obtained my medical card. It has helped my pain and improved my sleep and anxiety. These changes have made daily life more enjoyable, let me be more present with my family, and even softened my outlook toward others.

Emily: How did your husband and friends react?

Christine: They were surprised—many had assumed I’d never try cannabis. Now we use it together at times; it’s both a source of relief and a social connection. In our small town it took thought to decide whether to be public about it, but I’m comfortable because I have a medical card and feel physically better than I have in years.

Emily: Have you talked to your kids about it?

Christine: My sons, 15 and 17, already knew. They’re mature and have said they’re glad I feel better. That response eased my worries about being judged as a parent. My improved sleep and mood have made home life happier, and they noticed the difference.

Emily: You mentioned concerns about addiction and comparisons to substances like cigarettes and pain meds.

Christine: I’ve experienced dependence on pain meds and know what addiction feels like. My experience with cannabis is different: I might miss it, but I wouldn’t become distraught without it. Educating yourself helps reduce risks—understanding dosing, methods, and what works for your body matters. Cannabis has fewer harmful side effects than many prescription drugs and often improves sleep and overall wellbeing.

Emily: What practical advice do you give others curious about cannabis?

Christine: Get educated, consult a medical professional if needed, and start slowly. Learn about different methods—vaping, edibles, tinctures—and how they affect you. Balance THC with CBD if you want less intensity. Timing and dosage make a big difference: you can use cannabis at night for better sleep or time microdoses during the day to manage pain without impairing function.

Emily: How has cannabis changed your daily life?

Christine: I have less pain, more energy, better sleep, and more patience. Simple things—listening to music, doing chores, being present with my family—feel more joyful. It’s not a cure-all, but it has improved my quality of life in many ways.

Emily: Any final thoughts for someone listening and unsure?

Christine: Don’t judge before you learn. Read reliable information, talk to professionals, and be open to trying options that could reduce pain and improve daily life. For me, cannabis provided relief that other treatments did not, and sharing my story might encourage someone else to explore a safe, informed path to feeling better.