Gabapentin is prescribed for many kinds of neuropathic pain -- not just PN, and not just diabetic-related PN. Whether it works or not is another issue (~1/3). For some people/situations, it works from the first dose, while for others, it must be titrated up, which can take up to several weeks.

That's significant for PN (Is it cutting down the burning pain if applicable?)
Generally, the goal of pain management is not to be pain free, but to restore functionality -- "to reduce the sense of suffering and improve the quality of life".

When taken as prescribed, the incidence of pain patients with no history of substance abuse becoming "addicted" to opioid pain medications is extremely low (<3%). Patients who take them for chronic conditions usually do become chemically dependent, but that is not the same as addiction, and not limited to opioids. Gabapentin produces dependence, as can things like anti-depressants.

Addiction vs Dependence [Disclaimer: Strong Language]
http://www.theangrypharmacist.com/ar...ion_vs_de.html

Definitions Related to the Use of Opioids for the Treatment of Pain: Consensus Statement
http://www.asam.org/advocacy/find-a-...nsus-statement

Drugs that cause physical dependence
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physica...cal_dependence

It's great that you found some relief. Like gabapentin and other meds, tramadol works for some and doesn't for others. There are ~500 posts mentioning tramadol in this (PN) forum alone. You can find them in the archives using the Search facility.

Best to you too, Brue,

Doc