Scheuermanns Disease

Hi Ruby,

I've been taking tramadol since about 2005, the ER version since 2007. I've also used voltaren -- both as a gel and as a patch.

I've not found voltaren to really make any difference for me -- or if any, very slight. Others, though, might have found it more helpful.

As for tramadol, it was very helpful for years. I still take it, but now need to supplement it with stronger meds.

Tramadol is a very mild opioid that also affects serotonin and norepinephrine levels. As a result, it can be particularly helpful with neuropathic pain, and is also prescribed off-label as an anti-depressant.

As for side effects, that will vary person by person. In my case (and in that of one friend), tramadol made it difficulty to fall asleep (because of a slight stimulant effect), but that wore off fairly quickly. Others I know just feel dopey when they use it (as with other opioids).

I assume that your doctor prescribed the ER version (at 200mg). That is a middle-sized dose and if you were to try it and find the side effects problematic, they should, I presume, abate by the next day. So, maybe take it one day when you have someone as a backup for your kinds. If it doesn't make you dopey, then you might find that it helps with both pain and mood.