As someone who takes tramadol daily, and has done for about 7 years, I respect that it isn't the best option. But right now I don't have better alternatives. Yes, I've taken breaks for up to a month (without needing to ween, never upped my dosage).

Cannabis doesn't work. Paracetamol/acetaminophen, ibuprofen, NSAID's don't work.

Morphine, codeine and tramadol do. Tramadol is the best of a bad bunch.