Hi there, I understand your concern, and this combination of tramadol and paracetamol is safe to be taken, two tablets at a time up to three times a day for maybe two weeks or so while you recover. Addiction happens when the medication is not used for what it is prescribed for - pain relief. It happens when people continue taking it even when the pain has improved just because it makes them feel better emotionally, and start reaching for it as a comfort pill. It is important that you control the pain so that you can function better, and prevent muscle spasms and stiffness, which causes a vicious cycle of pain. Other non-opioid alternatives are anti-inflammatories like diclofenac, or celecoxib, if you have no allergies or other health problems. You can also combine these with paracetamol if the pain relief is inadequate, just like the tramadol-paracetamol. Hope this helps, and all the best to you. Regards, Dr. Teh