[Lesser]

Hi Everyone,

It seems that I am not alone with this Tramadol problem. I am currently trying to give it up, and I would really like help/support/advice.

Maybe I should start off with my story.

I am 34yo, have reactive arthritis affecting my spine and hips, and have been taking Tramadol almost every day for the last 3 years. I would routinely take 2-3 times what I should, so on a bad day I could take 1200mg. I guess the major problem is this 'empty' feeling inside that I have, I feel I want to fill it with something. I guess that is how you move on to bigger and better addictions. I have been reading about exercise, and how that can help. I am sure that it would be a really good thing for me, but I am not sure where to start - what do you suggest?

The next major problem is what do I do now. Unfortunately, I really do have chronic pain and I cannot function without some form of pain relief. A few years ago I was on Norspan patches 20mg, as well as the Tramadol, but after I forgot to put on a new patch one week and started going into major withdrawals, I weaned myself off them, it completely freaked me out! I have always been wary of the 'harder' pain tablets, my Dr has suggested a few times that I try MS Contin or OxContin, but I have always vigorously said no. I have had them several times in the past when I have been in hospital, and found them not effective for my pain anyway.

I have been to see a pain specialist, and undertaken several chronic pain management classes, and I am just not sure where to go from here. I know I am 'catastrophizing' but sometimes I feel that my life is over, and I am doomed to spend the rest of my time curled up in bed feeling sorry for myself. Is there a magic pill patch or potion out there that will let me life a normal life with out the risk of addiction?

I should also say that to help with my pain while I am coming off the Tramadol, I am currently back on the Norspan Patch 5mg, and I am also taking Panadeine, which is 500mg paracetamol and 10mg Codeine. I cannot take NSAID's because I have a major inflammatory bowel disorder.

Please ask any questions and I would love to hear from anyone.

Thanks
JC
Australia

[Lesser]

Ug, no one wants to talk to me

Maybe I had too many questions. Ok how about just one, can people tell me more about how to use exercise as part of getting through withdrawal?

I have been reading all the threads and posts and I have read a few things which have given me heart. I was reading a post somewhere that Robert_325 made that how maybe the pain is not as bad as you think it is, its just my brain being stupid (highly paraphrased). That has given me a lot of hope.

Anyway, I would really appreciate some advice regarding exercise.

xox
JC

[MaisieC]

Hi Lesser,

I'm sorry no one has responded to you. I know a lot about tramadol and addiction, but I don't know anything about pain management, so I am not the right person.

I think you should start a new thread about chronic pain, and leave the word "tramadol" out of the title. I believe that lot of people here see the word "tramadol" and think, "hm, I don't know anything about tramadol, so I won't click on this thread." They don't realize that tramadol is really just another opioid. (It's got some special features, but it ain't THAT special.) There are several people here who are very knowledgeable about chronic pain. I'm sure they can discuss your situation with you. Please do try starting another thread and see if you can attract their attention.

Good luck and God bless you.

Maisie

[melinda7.5]

Hi Lessor
I'm sorry I didn't post to you...I just seen it was tramadol...and Maisie is the one that knows all about that...but i should have a least said hi
I'm sorry ...
I have fibromyalgia and have been on every pain pill or patch there is...
My tolerance grew and grew...and I ended up with a whopping addiction to opiates...so I had to get off all of them...I still have pain but I try to curb it with exercise...I started walking and then went to running and I do ab workouts it really helps me a lot...
If I can be of any help let me know...
Talk to you later, Melinda