I received free product samples for the purpose of this review and giveaway. The opinions expressed here are 100% mine. This post contains affiliate links.
When Omron contacted me to review one of their TENS devices, I had no idea that electrotherapy was even a thing. And I certainly had never heard of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) as a method for treating pain. I’m guessing I’m not alone – so let me give you a little info about TENS before I tell you about the device itself.
What is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)?
TENS is a therapy that uses a low-voltage electrical current for pain relief. Typically, a TENS unit is a small, portable device with electrodes that are placed on the skin, usually on a pressure point or painful area. The device creates a circuit of electrical impulses that travels along the nerve fibers. Some people experience a reduction in pain when the current is delivered. According to WebMD, “This may be because the electricity from the electrodes stimulates the nerves in an affected area and sends signals to the brain that block or “scramble” normal pain signals. Another theory is that the electrical stimulation of the nerves may help the body to produce natural painkillers called endorphins, which may block the perception of pain.” (WebMd.com, 2011)
TENS technology has been used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and other medical professionals for more than 30 years. It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and accessible.
Omron Electrotherapy TENS Pain Relief Pro Unit
From OmronHealthcare.com:
The Omron Pain Relief Pro TENS unit is:
- Portable: Smart-phone sized unit for great portability
- Accessible: Easy-to-read screen with large buttons allows for simple operation
- Versatile: 8 pre-set modes offer more pain relief choices or a relaxing massage (arm, lower back, leg, foot, joints; tap, knead, rub)
- Powerful: 10 levels of intensity for the right amount of relief
- Multiple Users: Ideal for sharing with other family members (each person should have their own pads)
- Easy To Travel With: Sturdy belt clip and soft carrying pouch for using anywhere, anytime.
- 100% drug-free: Safe and effective for home use (FDA cleared)
- Includes: unit, electrode cords, two Long Life pads, pad holder, cloth carrying case, 2 AAA batteries, instruction manual, quick start guide, and pad placement guides
The Review
Fortunately, I’m not currently dealing with any significant pain (other than the usual aches and pains of being 40 and a long distance runner). So instead of trying it out myself, I decided to ask my mom to give it a test drive – she has severe, chronic pain in her right knee and both ankles, and I was really interested to see if the TENS Unit would make a difference. Frankly, I was a little skeptical – it seemed a bit gimmicky to me.
My mom agreed to try it out for a few days. After 3 days, she could not tell a difference in her knee – in fact, she thought perhaps that the TENS therapy made it feel a bit worse. HOWEVER – she immediately noticed an improvement in her right ankle. Trust me – this is a big deal! She and my dad kept notes for me, and after just the second use, they noted that her right ankle felt “a lot better.”
My mom’s ankle pain has been incapacitating at times, so for her to notice any improvement, let alone a significant one, is really saying a lot. Before starting the TENS treatment, she experienced severe pain in her ankle just from standing. Now she’s able to stand AND walk on it with much less discomfort. She continues to use the TENS Unit once a day on her right ankle and sometimes on her left ankle as well. She is so pleased with the product – and if mama’s happy, everyone’s happy, right?
{GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED}
Omron ElectroTHERAPY TENS Pain Relief Pro Unit Giveaway
I’m not sure if my mom’s experience is typical, but considering the severity of her pain, I take her testimony quite seriously. You can learn more about the Omron TENS Unit and whether it might be right for you at OmronHealthcare.com. And thanks to Omron, one lucky reader will have the chance to win their own Pain Relief Pro Unit (MSRP $69.99). Everything you need to enter is on the Rafflecopter below.
Stuff you should know before you enter the giveaway —> * This giveaway is open to US residents only. You must be 18+ to enter. Winners will be notified via email and given 48 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 48 hours, a new winner may be selected. Mommy Runs It is not responsible for prize fulfillment. Giveaway ends 10/24/14 at 11:59 p.m. EST.*
Good luck and thanks for entering!