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I am a 34 y.o. who has dealt with several different types of addictions, o.c.d., and chronic pain from different issues (ulcers, fibromyalgia, injuries, neuritis (from varicella) and arthritis).  I started taking tramadol in 2003 and I've been taking large amounts of it for the better part of the last 7 yrs.  About 20-30 50mg. pills/day.  I've also been treated for alcohol abuse/poisoning twice a few years ago (self-medicating the pain) and anorexia nervosa w/ bulemic tendancies in the mid 90's.  About 2mos ago, I decided that  enough was more than enough.  I've had health related issues (kidney stones), financial issues, and I've become separated from my husband due to my problems.    I decided to check myself into a detox center and put an end to this once and for all.  I was put on a drug called Suboxone and it has worked miracles.  Due to the fact that I didn't want to trade one addiction for another, I decided to only take the suboxone until the more severe tramadol withdrawls have subsided.  I've been off of it for 4 days now and I've realized that the tramadol was making my chronic pain worse.  I'm not 100% yet, but I'm feeling better (and in much less pain) than I did when the tramadol wore off.  I'm glad that monkey is off my back.  One issue that I did encounter was that I was judged by some of the patients that were coming off of heroin because it's a weaker drug.  I was just as sick as they were.  I have some advice for the tramadol addicts out there.  First of all, don't feel ashamed to get help for tramadol abuse just because it isn't as strong as heroin.  Be honest with your doctor.  That goes for anyone on any kind of drug.  If your dishonest (especially about the last time you dosed), some of the meds that they may use could counteract with the drug and make you very sick.  Stay true to yourself.  Set realistic goals and stick to them.  Remind yourself what you are capable of both on and off of the drugs (there may be a time in the future in which we would need something for pain and we have to be much more responsible).  Take care of your physical well being.  Eating well and getting plenty of exercise helps both physical pain and depression.  Also, drink lots of WATER!!!!!  Not juice, not soda, not soft drinks, not sports drinks (they have large amounts of preservatives and sodium which can actually dehydrate you more).  WATER!!!!!!  It will keep you hydrated during the withdrawls and flush the meds out of your system faster which can help with a more timely healing.  Most of all (even though it may not seem this way), in time, you WILL feel better.  You just have to be patient.  Well, enough with my babbling.  I sure hope this helps with your recovery.  I wish everyone the best of luck.