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Home > Frequently Asked Questions > Pain Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)?

TENS is a drug-free non-invasive therapy designed to reduce & relieve muscle or joint pain by applying electrical nerve stimulation to the surface of the skin near the site of the pain.

What does TENS do?

TENS can work in several ways, including: block the pain message from reaching the brain, trigger the body to produce more endorphins (=natural pain killers) or improve blood circulation.

Click here to find out more about Omron’s Pain Therapy products.

How does TENS work?

TENS relieves pain in two ways:

Standard High-Frequency Treatment
1. Pulse Rate is set to 60 pulses per second or more. 
2. Produces a steady "buzzing" or "tingling" feeling between the electrodes
3. Produces an electrical signal that is stronger than the pain signal that the body produces. Because the signal is perceived as stronger, it effectively blocks the pain signal from travelling along nerves to the brain. 
4. Effective for acute pain

Low-Frequency Treatment
1. Pulse Rate is below 10 pulses per second or at "burst" mode. 
2. Produces visible muscle twitching & "tapping" or "pulsating" feeling 
3. The body reacts to this type of stimulation by releasing "endorphins" (pain-killing chemicals produced naturally in the body)
4. These endorphins act as a chemical nerve block, effectively reducing pain by interrupting the flow of pain signals along the nerves. 
5. Effective for chronic pain, stiffness & numbness

How do Omron TENS units relieve my pain?

A simple, drug-free solution for relief of muscle & joint pain. Under your personalized control, our TENS units deliver gentle massage-like pulses, providing on the spot pain relief. Available without a prescription, Omron TENS unit may help relieve pain in about 15 minutes.

Click here to find out more about Omron’s Pain Therapy products.

Is TENS safe?

Yes! TENS has been prescribed by medical professionals & used for over 30 years by physicians, chiropractors, & physical therapists as an effective pain relief solution. 

Click here to find out more about Omron’s Pain Therapy products.

Who can use TENS?

Adults who suffer from joint or muscle pain can use this therapy. However, it should not be used by children, pregnant women, or anyone who has an implanted metallic or electronic device. Consult your doctor if you have any questions related to your health.

How long do the Long Life Pads last?

The Long Life Pads are good for up 150 uses or 5 months based on daily usage. Store your pads on the provided pad holder & clean the pads as needed; they should last up to 10 washes. 

How far apart should you place the Pads?

They should be a minimum of 1 inch apart on clean, dry, healthy skin; the pads should never touch or overlap.

How to ensure optimal service life of your Gel/ Pads?

Proper maintenance of the Gels/Pads can extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance throughout its usage.

Here are some tips:
*  To avoid damage to the adhesive surface of the pads, put the pads only on the skin or on the plastic pad holder provided.
* Do not apply ointment or any solvent to the pads or to your skin because it will disrupt the pads from functioning properly.
* Do not overlap pads or put them on top of each other.* Do not apply the pad with wet hands, and do not apply the pads that are wet.
* Do not keep in areas subject to direct sunlight, high or low temperatures, humid area, near to fire, vibration, or shock.
* Do not bend or fold because the gel may get damaged, affecting the adhesiveness and function.
Try not to bend or fold the cord with pads and gels during therapy or during storage.
* Long Life Pads can be washed up to 10 times, please be sure to follow the instruction on cleaning the Pads.
For more information on care and maintenance, please refer to the Instruction Manual.

When should you replace the gels/ pads of your TENS device?

If the gel no longer sticks firmly to your skin or if more than 25 % of the gel’s surface is not in contact with your skin.
Gels or Pads are replaceable and can be purchased.
Purchase them here.

How do you clean the Long-life Pads?

These pads are designed for repeated use over time. The pads may last up to 150 uses, up to approximately 10 washes, depending on how often you wash them, the skin condition and how you store.

Here are important tips:
·         Wash the pads softly with your fingertips under slow running cold water for several seconds.
·         Do not use a sponge/cloth/sharp objects on the adhesive side, detergents, chemicals or soap.
·         Do not wash the pads too long or frequently. Pads can be washed after 15 times of usage.
·         If the adhesive becomes sticky or the pad peels off, leave the pad in the refrigerator (do not freeze) overnight. The adhesion may be restored.
·         Dry the pads and let the adhesive surface air dry completely. Do not wipe with tissue paper or cloth.
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