Cases of abuse and dependence on ULTRAM have been reported. ULTRAM should not be used in opioid-dependent patients. Since ULTRAM can reinitiate physical dependence, it is not recommended for patients with a tendency to drug abuse, a history of drug dependence, or chronically using opioids. All of this and the rest of the prescribing info is available at the Ultram website.
You nay want to consider seeing a chiropractor to see if he can help with your problems. Since the discs are causing you so much discomfort I am wondering why the doc hasn't considered surgery for you unless he doesn't think that will help.

I was on Ultram for awhile and I was told it was non-narcotic BUT may be habit forming... It didn't work on me so I stopped taking it.