I have been on tramadol for 13 years and was ordered by my consultant surgeon to wean myself off?

Thanks Chuck. I had major spinal surgery which saw my previous acute pain almost cured. My condition was only discovered by having an MRI scan.and was admitted to hospital shortly after.
I do know that the maximum paracetamol is 8 x 500 gm tablets in 24 hours .I really have taken the bull by the horns and have been Tramadol free for 4 days, however the flu symptoms persist a little with sneezing fits and waking up for the toilet and having a problem getting back to sleep again..It is a case of perseverance. He who dares wins. George from the UK.

Geord; Great you are doing very well with as long as you have been on the Tramadol, It would be nice if they could tell us how hard some things are to get off of. But when we need them that is the most Important thing. Glad you knew about the Paracetamol and hope this coming surgery well be the end of your problems. You are a very positive and strong willed person and that is how you have made it this far. All my best from U.S.A. Chuck1957

I'm just curious...
You have no regrets over doing the spinal surgery?
PS... I love your attitude!

Good day Windchimes, I have no regrets over the spinal surgery as the pain I was suffering for years came as a great relief. I can walk a couple of miles no problem . I had Lumbar Canal Stenosis which wasn't diagnosed until the MRI scan. Surgery one day and out the next. Recovery was about 4 weeks but boy the relief after recovery made it worth it. I have now been free of Tramadol for six days but the flu type after effects can linger on for a bit and after what I have already been through it is a walk in the park and I am 71 years old.

Hi Geordieboy,
God Bless You!
The reason I'm asking is because of my husband who just turned 70.
He is bothered by sciatica. He did the back Infusions, now Cymbalta which I'm not crazy about and now he's talking surgery.
I needed a reality check by someone like you!
I realize we hear all the horror stories here.
I just needed that reality slap in the face to make me open-minded to support him in his decision.
I know you you will do well with your great attitude!
Best wishes,
:-)

Thank you for your kind reply Windchimes. My wife was very sceptical about surgery but I insisted she came with me to see the results of the MRI scan in black and white and was duly informed by the surgeon that there was no alternative as my case was severe and could have eventually led to paralysis.

Four weeks after surgery I attended physiotherapy but swimming is even better. Coming off Tramadol is difficult but it is a case of telling your brain you don't need it no matter how much your brain says"I want a fix and I want one now". I still have 40 capsules of Tramadol and I look at them every day and say " I don't need you anymore." Go for it with your husband's surgery. There is everything to gain and the pain to lose. Best wishes George.