The majority of adults can use this drug without any precautions. There are dosage restrictions depending on age and various medical conditions but, of all the painkillers, Tramadol causes the fewest side effects and, unlike the opiates, is not addictive.

• Check Tramadol medical guidance

How does Tramadol work? What chemical processes are involved so we can feel less pain and move around more freely? What makes Tramadol so effective? Learn now …

Every drug has advantages and disadvantages. Do we take too many painkillers like Tramadol? What are the alternatives to Tramadol? Learn now

Tramadol dosage advice

The key to keeping the problems under control is self-discipline on the dosage. As your body grows used to Tramadol, it will slowly feel less effective. You must resist the temptation to increase the dosage or to ask your physician for a prescription for something stronger. The higher the dosage or the longer you take this drug, the more side effects you are likely to experience. Even more importantly, you may reach a point of dependence where you cannot simply stop without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. The only remedy is a slow tapering of the dose. It can take several months before you can be drug-free.

Drug-free methods of pain relief

The right method depends on the underlying cause of the pain. Sometimes, you get the most benefit from resting. If you have overworked your body, muscles can recover more quickly if you are relatively immobile. However, there are equally conditions where the opposite is the right approach. The longer you rest some conditions, the more your body will stiffen and the muscles lose their tone.

So you need to start a regular exercise program to build up strength and recover mobility. The best first step is stretching. This avoids any quick movements which can trigger pain. Develop a series of gentle movements and held positions to establish and slowly increase the range of movement in the joints. These exercises should be reinforced by keeping a good posture when you sit or walk. Get advice on which is the right approach.

Lifestyle changes

You should get into the habit of regular exercise. Walk instead of drive. Climb stairs instead of using the elevator. Check out your diet. Losing weight reduces the load on stressed joints. Increase the amount of fruit and vegetables you eat. Drink more water. Dehydration can increase swelling and inflammation.