As we age, pain can become a daily companion, significantly impacting our quality of life. For aged care residents and their carers, finding effective and user-friendly pain management solutions is essential.

‘TENS is effective in managing both chronic and acute pain, with success rates between 50% and 80%, including pain experienced after surgery or injury.’ -medicalsearch.com.au

Today, we explore the range of OMRON TENS devices that offer an innovative and drug-free approach to pain relief. It will also cover the benefits of TENS devices and how they can provide effective pain management for aged care residents and carers.

Understanding TENS Therapy

What is TENS Therapy?

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy is a non-invasive pain relief method that uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate the nerves. This stimulation helps block pain signals from reaching the brain and promotes the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.

How Does TENS Therapy Work?

TENS therapy involves placing electrodes on the skin near the pain area. When activated, the TENS device sends electrical impulses through the skin, interfering with the transmission of pain message to the brain and spinal cord.

Benefits of TENS Therapy for the Elderly

Drug-Free Pain Relief

One of the most significant advantages of TENS therapy is that it provides drug-free pain relief. This is particularly important for aged care residents who may be on multiple medications and are looking to avoid additional pharmaceuticals and their potential side effects. TENS devices can also be used in addition to current pain medication,

Muscular and Nerve Pain Management

TENS therapy is highly effective for managing muscular and nerve pain. Conditions that involve muscular and nerve pain, which are common among the elderly, can be managed more effectively with regular TENS therapy sessions in the comfort of the home environment.

User-Friendly TENS Units

TENS devices are designed with ease of use in mind. User-friendly TENS units ensure that aged care residents and their carers can operate the devices without difficulty, making it simple to incorporate into daily routines.

Portable Pain Relief

The compact and lightweight design of TENS devices offers portable pain relief, allowing aged care residents to manage their pain effectively, whether they are at home or on the go.

The OMRON TENS Range

OMRON HVF128 TENS Device

The HV-F128 is a versatile TENS unit that offers multiple modes and intensity levels to customise pain relief. Its portability and ease of use make it an excellent choice for aged care residents. This device features:

• 12 Automatic Modes: Including shoulder, joint, and lower back modes to target different areas of the body.

• 4 Massage Modes: To provide a soothing massage experience alongside pain relief.

• Adjustable Intensity Levels: To tailor the therapy according to individual needs.

OMRON HVF311 TENS Therapy Device with Heat

The HVF311 combines the benefits of soothing heat therapy and TENS, providing soothing warmth alongside electrical stimulation, enhancing the pain relief experience. Key features include:

• 3 Combined Heat and TENS Modes: Allowing for a comprehensive pain relief approach.

• 9 Intensity Levels: Ensuring that users can find the perfect level of relief.

• Portable Design: Easy to carry and use wherever needed.

• Release endorphins: Endorphins are the body’s natural painkillers. These peptide hormones are released by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in response to pain or stress. Apart from relieving pain, they also contribute to a general sense of wellbeing.

• Improve blood circulation: As a result of repeated muscle contraction and muscle relaxation, TENS therapy devices can help to increase blood circulation in the area of treatment.

OMRON HVF013 TENS Therapy Device

The HVF013 is a straightforward and effective TENS unit, ideal for those looking for a simple yet powerful pain relief solution. Features include:

• 3 Pre-Set Programs: To target different areas such as the back, shoulder, and legs.

• Compact Size: Making it easy to handle and store.

• Battery Operated: Providing flexibility and convenience for users.

Aged Care Pain Solutions with TENS

Addressing Common Pain Issues

TENS devices are designed to address various pain issues prevalent among aged care residents, including:

• Reducing joint pain and discomfort.

• Alleviating lower back pain and muscle tension.

• Managing nerve pain and discomfort.

Enhancing Quality of Life

Technology can enhance outcomes in aged care. Regular use of TENS devices can significantly improve the quality of life for aged care residents by providing consistent pain relief and enabling greater mobility and activity levels. With effective pain management, aged care residents can:

• Engage in daily activities with less discomfort.

• Experience better sleep and overall rest.

• Enjoy a higher level of independence and confidence.

Carer Support Tools

Simplifying Pain Management

For carers, managing the pain of aged care residents can be challenging. OMRON TENS devices act as carer support tools, simplifying the process of administering pain relief. The easy-to-use devices allow carers to quickly set up and monitor therapy sessions, ensuring effective pain management.

Education and Training

OMRON provides resources and support to help carers understand and effectively use OMRON TENS devices. Proper education and training ensure that carers can maximise the benefits of TENS therapy for their residents. This includes:

• Instructional Guides: Detailed manuals on how to use the devices.

• Video Tutorials: Step-by-step videos to assist with device setup and usage.

Empowering Carers

By equipping carers with reliable and easy-to-use pain management tools, OMRON TENS devices empower carers to provide better care. This not only improves the wellbeing of the residents but also reduces the stress and burden on the carers.

Conclusion

The OMRON TENS range available, provides an effective, user-friendly, and drug-free solution for managing muscle and nerve pain in aged care residents. These devices offer multiple benefits, from enhancing quality of life to simplifying pain management for carers. With trusted technology and OMRON’s support, aged care residents can experience reliable pain relief and improved wellbeing.

Explore the TENS Range Today!

Discover the wide range of OMRON TENS devices and find your solution for pain management needs.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use.

Do not use this device if you have a pacemaker, implanted defibrillator, or other implanted metallic (e.g. hip replacement) or electronic device. For full list of health warnings visit https://www.omronhealthcare-ap.com/au/instruction-manual/pain-therapy

Sources:

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) (clevelandclinic.org)

Electronic Nerve Stimulator (HEAT + TENS) HV-F311 – OMRON Healthcare Brand Shop (omronhealthcare-ap.com)

Endorphins: The brain’s natural pain reliever – Harvard Health

Tips on choosing the best TENS device for you (medicalsearch.com.au)

British Journal of Nursing – A guide to pain assessment and management in adults

Four Ways to Improve the Use of Technology in Aged Care Homes (agedcareessentials.com.au)