Dew,

I have NO idea why they would give you Tramadol in place of Opana or Hydrocodone. That was the first med my doctor gave me when I was diagnosed because he said it was between Tylenol and Darvocet on the scale of potency. He likes to start with the mildest med and move up as needed. He also said it has mild anti-depressant properties, and I was really down and frustrated when my nerve blocks caused the RSD to spread. I still have it becasue it is supposed to work better on nerve pain than some narcotics, but I only take it when the pain is VERY mild. I'm on Neurontin, Cymbalta, and Narco for break through pain (although nothing ever stops the pain ). Don't be surprised that it didn't do anything for you. It's just not very strong. I hope you have the meds you need now and are feeling better.