Read this, and then make your decision:
http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/398986
I have Trams here too from a long time ago. I tried them once or twice, they did nothing for the pain, they did nothing at all , as far as I could tell. BUt i took only 1 at a time. After reading all the horror stories on here about tramadol now, I would never try it again to see any different!!! It sounds worse than vikes or oxy to get off of! So if I were you, I wouldnt take it. Have you ever tried Mobic ? I heard that helps alot of arthritis patients. I tried it about 2 years ago, it helped me a little I think, but it was harsh on my stomach, and expensive because my insurance didnt pay for it. ANyhow just a suggestion for somethign for you to possibly look into on that front if you havent already.
Just a though to try. They are taught to use more natural substances that have less side effects. They also try to get you to a healthier state. They will work with you & what you MD is doing. Good Luck.
I'm on so many scripts for my arthritis its crazy!! It all started with joint damage from lyme disease and progressed to RA. It sucks! Been to many diffrent types of doctors but not an ND. I'll look into that. thanks
They are addictive. Trams are a synthetic opiate. For me, they did nothing for pain. I don't know about arthritis. On the Tramadol site, they warn about dependence and warn about using if you have a previous problem with opiates.
Have you ever thought about seeing a ND (naturopath). There are a lot of things designed to relieve pain and anti-inflamatory supplements.