pain
"Initially tramadol worked wonderfully for the chronic pain that I experience. I was prescribed Ultram for foot and back pain as an alternative to hydrocodone.  I never had any significant withdrawal symptoms or dependency problems from the hydrocodone, my doctor just had a problem prescribing it to me for reasons unknown to me.  I asked him directly about the long term effects of taking tramadol and he assured me that it was nothing for me to worry about.  HE WAS WRONG.  I understand that every drug affects everyone differently, but I have never felt so terrible in my life as I am currently in the process of getting off of tramadol.  Body aches, cold sweats, mood swings, overall body stiffness...I feel miserable. "