I use tramadol very occasionally too. I find that once a week or less, is all I need. It seems to last me a day or two at a 1/2 tablet dose at night. (25mg)

I think people really can vary in response to this drug. Slow metabolizers may get longer duration of action.

Some people find it doesn't work at all for them! This is due to the metabolic needs of this drug...it has to be metabolized by the liver into its active metabolite, which then works on pain.

If your pain is confined to the toe? You might try Salonpas patches...the original formula. This takes inflammatory pain down topically with using oral medication. Apply on the top of your foot, near the toe. I love Salonpas, as I have sesamoid bone problems which can cause tendonitis at times.
http://www.walgreens.com/store/c/salonpas-pain-relief-patches-topical-analgesic2.56-in.-x-1.65-in./ID=prod4526-product?ext=gooMedicines_ampersand_Treatments_PLA_ Hot_ampersand_Cold_Therapy_prod4526_pla&adtype={ad type}&kpid=prod4526&sst=2c7bbf3f-0bc9-a1c8-d226-00004f5d8f2a
These small patches can be cut to size.
Keep the open pouch/envelop in a Ziploc baggie after opening.