Deb, I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis on my knees when I was only 20 years old. When I was around 50, the pain in the knees was so bad, that I had to take 20 (or more) drops of Tramadol plus 2 paracetamol (500mg) pills every 8 hours (the pain relief lasted less than 8 hours). You have to add that I am obese, which is of no help. I took Tramadol and Paracetamol for nearly 5 years and was really worried to become dependant (I don't allow anything to rule my life!). Then I suddenly realized I could do it with the same dosis, but every 12 hours. At that point I decided to stop the pain medication, unless really unbearable pain. In the meantime, my hands were attacked by osteo-arthritis, deforming my fingers. I use the hands as if they were thongs, but the pain is bearable, unless I have to lift heavy things that I cannot handle with my forearms.
Nobody recommended anythig to me that could have lessened the pain, but I incorporated two items to my life: Stevia as my only sweetener, and fresh Ginger roots, finely sliced in my beverages (tea, coffe, herbs, etc.) and ground fresh Ginger in my salads. It was sort of a compulsive need I felt/feel for Ginger. Were these the two things that changed my life? I have not used Tramadol/Paracetamol or any other pain killer for almost 10 years. I cannot assure you this is what helped me, but I can tell you for sure I will not stop consuming them
