Tramadol Treatment And Rehab

Tramadol Addiction Treatment

Overcoming a tramadol addiction typically involves drug detox, an inpatient or outpatient treatment program, and ongoing therapy and support groups.

Medical detox is offered in most inpatient and outpatient programs. Doctors usually recommend weaning tramadol users off the drug to reduce withdrawal symptoms during detox. Tapering off the drug under the supervision of a physician is more comfortable and effective than quitting “cold turkey.”

Once the user is free of their physical dependence on tramadol, treatment then focuses on eliminating their psychological addiction to the drug. Inpatient and outpatient rehabs offer various therapies to aid in this process, like one-on-one counseling and group therapy.

After rehab, support groups and ongoing therapy can help recovering tramadol addicts remain sober. The support of family and friends is also extremely important in recovery.

Tramadol Treatment Levels Of Care

When choosing a treatment center, it’s important to find a program with experience treating tramadol addiction. Some rehabs specialize in the treatment of certain substances, as well as co-occurring disorders and polydrug use.

Tramadol Detox

Ideally, medically-supervised tramadol detox is the first step towards overcoming an addiction. Detox allows patients to get through the worst of withdrawal while remaining comfortable and safe. It also puts them in the best mindset to begin the next stage of treatment, providing the greatest likelihood of success.

Inpatient Rehab For Tramadol Addiction

Inpatient rehab is ideal for those with severe addictions and co-occurring mental disorders. These programs provide a high level of care and supervision, and also allow tramadol users to immerse themselves in treatment without temptations or distractions.

Residential treatment centers usually offer programs that last from 28 to 90 days. However, in the event that a person needs to stay in treatment for longer than 90 days, many rehabs will extend the length of the program. Most inpatient rehabs operate under strict rules and require their residents to stick to a schedule.

My first time in treatment was very structured. Waking up early, eating breakfast, cleaning, attending groups and meetings. Every hour was structured, which I found I needed to keep myself clean.

Medical detox is offered in many inpatient rehabs to help tramadol users overcome their physical dependence on the drug. Residential centers also offer a number of different treatment options to address the psychological aspect of addiction, such as:

There are different kinds of treatment centers to choose from when seeking treatment for tramadol addiction. Luxury rehabs often have a resort feel to them and are typically more expensive. Rural, nature-focused treatment centers tend to incorporate the outdoors in their treatment plans. It’s important to choose a treatment center that includes providing an environment in which you’ll feel comfortable.

Ongoing Treatment And Relapse Prevention Strategies

Outpatient treatment is better suited for those with mild to moderate addictions who do not require as much supervision. It’s also a good option for those who are unable to attend a residential program because of responsibilities like work, children or school. Outpatient treatment is usually less expensive than inpatient rehab, as well. Outpatient programs are also recommended as aftercare or step-down programs for individuals who previously attended a more intense level of care in order to help them adjust to living in the community again while remaining clean and sober. Outpatient also provides additional support while transitioning out of treatment.

Many outpatient programs offer medical detox for those struggling with tramadol addiction. Typically in outpatient treatment, tramadol users will meet with a doctor on a daily basis. The physician will monitor the user’s condition and administer or provide medication to help with withdrawal. The dosage will be reduced over time until the user is no longer physically dependent on tramadol. Outpatient treatment also involves attending therapy sessions and support groups to help with cravings, anxiety and other psychological aspects of tramadol addiction.

Ongoing therapy and support groups, like Narcotics Anonymous and SMART Recovery™, are great follow-up options to both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. Continued therapy allows recovering tramadol users to talk about their feelings and struggles with someone who can offer professional advice and support. Connecting with other recovering addicts at support group meetings will help tramadol users grow their support network and be held accountable for their actions.

Other tips for avoiding relapse after tramadol addiction treatment include:

• Eat Healthy And Exercise

  Make sure to give your body the proper nutrition and exercise it needs. The healthier you are, the better you’ll feel.

• Get Some Sleep

  Sleep plays a large role in how a person feels both physically and mentally. Consistently getting a good night’s sleep—typically at least seven hours a night—will improve concentration, mental clarity and energy levels.

• Stick To A Schedule

  Most rehabs have a structured schedule for a reason—being busy and on a schedule keeps your mind off using.

• Identify Your Triggers

  Avoid the people, places and things that make you want to use tramadol. Make your support network aware of these triggers.

• Build Your Support Network

  Having a reliable group of supporters around you is extremely important in recovery. These people can help you avoid triggers and get back on track if you relapse. Family, friends, sponsors, therapists, counselors and those you meet in support groups can all be members of your support network.

• Get Involved

  Finding new, sober hobbies is a great way to stay busy and meet new people in recovery.

• Find Alternative Methods Of Pain Management

  For those who took tramadol to treat chronic pain, finding a different way to manage it can help avoid relapse. Try yoga, massage therapy, heating pads, ice packs, physical therapy or acupuncture. Even going to a comedy show may help—you know what they say, laughter is the best medicine.

We have to change everything about ourselves [in recovery] and it’s worth it. Don’t keep painful or uncomfortable feelings inside, talk about them. Work the steps, help others and be willing to accept something bigger than yourself. Go to meetings.

Get Help Now

If you’re ready to kick your tramadol habit, an inpatient or outpatient treatment program can help you do so. A program that offers medical detox will allow you overcome your dependence on the drug safely.

Many people are worried about how they will pay for addiction treatment. However, there are plenty of rehabs that accept state-funded or private insurance, Medicaid or Medicare, and offer financing.

Contact a treatment provider for help finding a treatment center for tramadol addiction.

*Some names have been changed.