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Spiked acupressure mat: ranking, reviews, how to use

Find out about the types of acupressure mats and the benefits of self-massage.

Nina Wawryszuk - AuthorAuthorNina Wawryszuk
Nina Wawryszuk - Author
AuthorNina Wawryszuk
Natu.Care Editor

Nina Wawryszuk specialises in sports supplementation, strength training and psychosomatics. On a daily basis, in addition to writing articles for Natu.Care, as a personal trainer she helps athletes improve their performance through training, diet and supplementation.

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Michael Bojemski - Reviewed byReviewed byMichael Bojemski
Verified by an expert
Michael Bojemski - Reviewed by
Reviewed by
Michael Bojemski
Physiotherapist

Since 2017 he has been professionally associated with REHEALTHY Health Clinic Arkadiusz Martyniuk and Fizjoexpress by REHEALTHY. Advocate of prevention and natural treatment methods. Believes that an individual approach to working with the patient is the basis for success. "Part of treatment depends on the will to heal." - Seneca the Younger

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Michael Tomaszewski - Edited byEdited byMichael Tomaszewski
Michael Tomaszewski - Edited by
Edited by
Michael Tomaszewski
Editor

Graduate of Journalism and Artes Liberales at the University of Warsaw. Since 2017, he has been working with the biggest portals in Poland and abroad as an editor. Previously worked for 3 years in one of the leading pharmaceutical companies - he knows the health and beauty industry inside out. In his free time, he most enjoys playing tennis or skiing.

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Anna Wisniewska - Fact-checkingFact-checkingAnna Wisniewska
Anna Wisniewska - Fact-checking
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Anna Wisniewska
Fact-checker

Anna Wisniewska is in charge of verifying quoted sources and checking that published content is truthful.

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Spiked acupressure mat: ranking, reviews, how to use
01 April, 2024
24 min
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- Spiked mat? Thank you, I'll stand. Don't panic, acupressure mats won't hurt you (nor are they just for fakirs!). Home acupressure can support the healing of pain and tension in the body. Hundreds of prickly rosettes can relax and calm the body in minutes.

The acupressure mat is an interesting addition to the treatment of many common ailments. If you suffer from back pain, neck pain, have trouble sleeping or are accompanied by unpleasant tension, experience for yourself how a home self-massage with spikes works.

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From this article you will learn:

  • What is an acupressure mat (acumata)
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  • What types of mats there are and how to choose the best one for you
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  • What are the benefits of using an acupressure mat
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  • What are the indications, contraindications and side effects of acumata use
  • .

What is an acupressure mat and what are the types

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An acupressure mat (also known as an acumata) is a type of thin mattress fitted with dozens of points ending in small, sharp spikes. When applied to the skin, they exert pressure on numerous acupressure points in the body (according to Chinese medicine, they connect the surface of the body to the internal organs). And this can have many benefits for your health and well-being.

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The acupressure mat works on the principle of mechanical pressure, which has a stimulating effect on many systems in the human body. The contact of the spikes with the tissues results in an increase in their congestion and, consequently, better oxygen transport and faster regeneration. Akumata has a relaxing and loosening effect on the entire body, as it is a stimulus for the nervous system.
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Justyna Wawryszuk.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

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How does the acumata look like?

There are dozens to hundreds (depending on the size of the mattress) of circular rosettes attached to the mat, which are topped with sharp spikes (rest assured, they are safe for health and skin). Their number, spacing and material may vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.

This is an example of the appearance of the rosettes in different acumat manufacturers.

Some people colloquially say "spiked mat", which can evoke unpleasant associations with stabbing - however, they are unfounded. The spikes in the mat are properly shaped, smooth and do not injure the skin.

What types of acupressure mats are there?

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The simplest division of acumat refers to the material from which the spikes are made:

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  • mats with plastic spikes (a good choice for beginners who want to try acupressure),
  • .
  • mats with metal spikes (for the advanced or adventurous who want to feel a strong sensation right away).
  • Mats with metal spikes (for the advanced or adventurous who want to feel a strong sensation right away).

Acumates can also vary:

  • size,
  • .
  • the material covering the mattress,
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  • the filling of the mattress,
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  • type of spikes,
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  • the material of the rosettes,
  • .
  • number of stimulation points,
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  • additional accessories (e.g. cushion).
  • .
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Acupuncture is the pricking of painful areas with a needle. Acupressure is the pressing, stroking or tapping of specific points on the body.

Criteria: how to choose a good acupressure mat?

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When looking for the optimum mat for yourself, pay attention to:

  • Material from which the mat is made. Cotton or linen/cotton mats breathe better and offer a high hypoallergenicity compared to plastic products.
  • Material.
  • Plastic from which the spikes are made. Rosettes should be made of a good quality plastic (e.g. HIPS) that is hypoallergenic and non-irritating.
  • Filling. It should be soft, mouldable to the body, breathable and hypoallergenic (e.g. coconut fibres).
  • Accessories.
  • Accessories. For complete relaxation and effective pain management, it is advisable to buy a set together with a neck pillow.
  • Certifications. Manufacturers whose products are certified (e.g. medical device) guarantee the quality of workmanship.
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Important

Note the number of spikes in the rosette. The more, the more intense the stimulation. Beginners or people with a low pain threshold should choose mats with fewer spikes. This will reduce the discomfort felt at first and it will be easier to gradually increase your pain tolerance.

Which mat will be best for me?

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For whom?

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Recommended type of mat

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  • I am a beginner - I have never used this type of mat, nor have I tried acupressure.
  • I have a low pain threshold.
  • I have a low pain threshold and sensitive skin.
    • I am a beginner.
    • I am not systematic, but want to relax on my own from time to time.
    • .
  • A classic mat with plastic rosettes, preferably complete with a cushion.
  • A small mat.
  • Small mat or other accessory with plastic rosettes (e.g. under the feet).
  • Small mat or accessory with plastic rosettes.
  • I am intermediate - a session of acupressure with plastic spikes of classic shape is no longer a challenge.
  • A large mat with rosettes in the shape of a vortex or roses.
  • A large mat with metal rosettes in the shape of a vortex or roses.
  • Mat with metal spikes.
  • Mat with metal spikes.
  • Other accessories that can enhance a home acupressure session, such as a small, point mat with needles for the back.
  • I am advanced. I want a stronger stimulation.
  • Mat with metal spikes.
      • Mat with metal spikes.
      • Other accessories that can enhance a home acupressure session, e.g. a small point mat with needles for the back, under the feet.
  • I want to buy my child's first mat*.
  • .
  • Small or classic mat with plastic rosettes.
    I want to buy my baby's first mat.

*Before purchasing a mat for your child, consult your doctor.

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The use of acupressure mats is a good adjunct therapy for the treatment of pain and tension. However, regular relaxation on an acumat by itself will not cure us. The basis should be cooperation with a physiotherapist and your own work with your body: regular stretching, watching your posture, healthy sitting habits.
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Michal Bojemski.

Michal Bojemski physiotherapist

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Best acupressure mats - ranking

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I have prepared a summary of acupressure mats, considering:

  • the user's level of sophistication, 
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  • price, 
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  • accessibility,
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  • expectations in terms of stimulation strength, 
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With the purchase criteria described above, you are sure to choose the perfect mat for yourself or a loved one.

Mats for beginners

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4Fizjo ECO acupressure mat

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Editor's choice
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High-quality medical product from a Polish manufacturer will allow you to enjoy a relaxing full-body massage. Hypoallergenic, made of natural materials and aesthetically made.

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Product description:

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Set contents:akumata, cushion, linen bag

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Dimensions of mat: length 68 cm, width 42 cm, thickness 2 cm

Cushion dimensions: length 30 cm, width 40 cm

Material of rosettes: hypoallergenic ABS plastic (plastic)

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Number of rosettes:270 (200 on mat, 70 on cushion)

Number spikes in rosette: 25

Material of mat: len

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Filling: coir fibre (mattress), buckwheat hull (pillow)

Akumata ECO is equipped with SPINNING SPIKES technology. Thanks to it, the spikes resembling the shape of a rotating whirlpool twist during gentle movements of your body and, as a result, relax the skin tissue and fascia. The ECO series mats are aesthetically pleasing and offer up to 6 colour versions to choose from.

Why it is worthwhile:

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The 4Fizjo company is one of the market leaders in acupressure mats, as evidenced by the many positive comments from relaxed users. You can buy the ECO mat (which is a medical device) blindly, as you are guaranteed the quality of workmanship.

Each rosette is attached using the HEAT-PRESS method, which involves welding them into a linen cover. This avoids the use of additional adhesive substances. This makes the mat hypoallergenic. In addition, the rosettes stick well and are difficult to peel off.

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Medical product - what does it mean?

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Products registered with the Office for the Registration of Medicinal Products for Medical Devices and Biocidal Products provide a guarantee that their use is completely safe. In the case of the acumata, the spikes and the materials they are made of have been tested and can be used directly on bare skin.

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AcusMed eco-friendly cushion mat

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Certified medical product for acupressure, made of airy cotton and linen.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: acumata, cushion, linen bag

Dimensions of mat: length 72 cm, width 43 cm, thickness 2 cm

Cushion dimensions: length 40 cm, width 30 cm, thickness 7 cm

Material of rosettes: hypoallergenic ABS plastic (plastic)

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Number of rosettes: 294 (221 on the mat, 73 on the cushion)

Number of spikes in rosette: 31

Material of mat: natural linen, cotton

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Filling:coir fibre (mat), buckwheat hulls (cushion)

The mat by the Polish manufacturer has been created from durable coconut fibre, natural linen and buckwheat hulls. It is an ideal choice for those who care about the environment and appreciate high quality workmanship in every detail.

For those who care about the environment and appreciate high quality workmanship in every detail.

Why it is worth it:

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The mat has the status of a medical device, which confirms that the product is completely safe for the skin and the body, and that its systematic use brings health benefits. Lie down or sit on the sofa, turn on your favourite TV series, and the massage... will do itself!"

The mat is certified for use on the skin.

This product is certified:

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BIO certification

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Certifies that the buckwheat hulls used in this mat are from Polish BIO cultivation.

OEKO-TEX certificate

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Certifies that the product has been tested for the 100 most hazardous substances of concern to consumers, as well as being chemical free and resistant to factors such as odours, sweat or saliva. 

4Fizjo acupressure mat classic

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A classic mat complete with a roller type cushion will allow you to have a comfortable acupressure session at home.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: acumat, cushion, cover

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Dimensions of mat: length 72 cm, width 42 cm, thickness 2 cm

Cushion dimensions: length 14 cm, width 39 cm, thickness 10 cm

Material of rosettes: hypoallergenic ABS plastic (plastic)

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Number of rosettes: 252 (210 on mat, 51 on cushion)

Number of spikes in rosette:42

Material of mat: natural cotton

Filling: polyurethane foam

Classic acupressure set with mat and cushion. Despite the fact that this is a basic, cheaper model, 4Fizjo has taken care of the quality of its workmanship. Interestingly, this mat has more spikes than the higher ECO model (shown above).

Why it's worth it:

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A good choice for the curious sensation beginner who wants intense stimulation right away, without compromising on the quality of the product.

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4Fizjo large acupressure mat with cushion

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For tall
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The large mat with cushion will give you relaxation from head to toe. The perfect mat if you want to feel full body relaxation.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: acumat, cushion, cover

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Dimensions of mat: length 130 cm, width 50 cm, thickness 2 cm

Dimensions cushion: length 14 cm, width 39 cm, thickness 10 cm

Material spreads: hypoallergenic ABS plastic (plastic)

Number rosettes: 465 (414 on mat, 51 on cushion)

Number spikes in rosette: 42

Material of mat: natural cotton

Filling: polyurethane foam

With this large acumat included with the cushion, up to 19,530 spikes will relax you from head to toe! This model is larger than the others. It is ideal for tall people and those who want the most intense, simultaneous stimulation of the whole body. 

Why it's worth it:

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As with all models from 4Fizjo, this set is also a high quality medical device. Despite its size, when rolled up and stored in a special cover, the mat takes up little space.

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MP SPORT acupressure mat with cushion

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The cheapest
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The perfect mat for beginners who want to find out if acupressure is for them. They will massage you with 303 rosettes and introduce you to the world of home self-massage.

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Product description:

Set contents: acumata, cushion, bag

Dimensions of mat: length 64 cm, width 42 cm, height 25 cm

Cushion dimensions: length 14 cm, width 37 cm, height 9 cm

Material of rosettes: TPR

Number of rosettes: 303 (270 on mat, 73 on cushion)

Number of spikes in rosette: 27

Material of mat: cotton

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Filling: sponge

A popular mat, purchased for its price and availability. It comes with an acumata along with a cushion. It allows for complete relaxation of the back, neck and head. 

Why it is worth it:

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Buy a holistic massage kit at a low cost and find out if stand-alone acupressure is for you.

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LifeGoods acupressure mat, cushion, massage balls

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Mat + cushion + balls set for complete relaxation wherever you are. Take the mat on the go, and take the balls with you to work and relax at your desk.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: acumata, cushion, bag, 2 massage balls

Dimensions of mat: length 66 cm, width 40 cm

Dimensions cushion: length 15 cm, width 37 cm

Material spreads: PVC

Number rosettes: 303 (270 on mat, 73 on cushion)

Number spikes in rosette: 27

Material of mat: cotton

Filling: foam

The set includes a mat, a cushion and two massage balls to relax tense muscle knots and give a deep tissue massage. 

Why it's worth it:

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This is for you if, in addition to home acupressure, you want to get motivated to roll tight muscles. This set, combined with physical exercises will take care of your relaxation and soothe your tense muscles.

If you do not know how to use the massage balls effectively, consult a physiotherapist.

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4Fizjo acupressure mat (without cushion)

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Standard acupressure mat without cushion. A good option if you want to try out if acupressure is for you. You can always buy a cushion over time.

Standard acupressure mat.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: acumat, cushion, cover

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Dimensions of mat: length 72 cm, width 42 cm, thickness 2 cm

Cushion dimensions: length 14 cm, width 39 cm

Material of rosettes: hypoallergenic ABS plastic (plastic)

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Number of rosettes: 252 (210 on mat, 42 on cushion)

Number of spikes in rosette: 42

Material of mat:natural cotton

Filling: polyurethane foam

This is a proposal for the mat itself, without the cushion. You may already have one, or you may want to buy a different one than is added in the kits (e.g. you prefer a square one instead of a roller one, or you want a different type of rosette). There are 8820 spikes in this mat to effectively stimulate tight or sore areas.

Why it's worth it:

The mat has medical device status and meets the highest quality standards. The cotton cover is easily removable, so you can easily take care of the hygiene of the mat.

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4Fizjo acupressure cushion

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Acupressure cushion with 51 rosettes will relax your neck or reduce tension during a long car journey.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: acumat, cushion, cover

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Dimensions: length 38 cm, width 15 cm, thickness 10 cm

Material of rosettes: hypoallergenic ABS plastic (plastic)

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Number of rosettes: 51

Number of spikes in rosette: 25

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Material of mat: natural cotton

Filling: polyurethane foam

The roller pillow is a good option if you want to try acupressure for little money and see if this method of relaxation is for you. I recommend it especially if you suffer from headaches or neck pain. The cushion can also be used under the feet or lumbar region.

Why it is worth it:

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It takes up little space and adapts well to your body. Take it with you on a long car journey or relax while watching your favourite TV series on the sofa. When you find that the cushion helps you fight tension, you can buy the mat itself or another accessory for your acupressure kit.

Mats for intermediate and advanced

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Lyapko mat with metal spikes

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Mat with metal ends for the advanced or for those who want to get to know acupressure from the most intense side right away.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: mat

Mat dimensions:length 72 cm, width 42 cm

Material needles: copper, iron, zinc, silver, nickel

Number needles: 2710

Needle spacing: 7.0 mm

Mat material: medical rubber

Did you shudder at the sight of metal spikes? Relax - the needles in this mat are properly shaped and blunted, so they won't scratch or pierce your skin. Instead, they provide more intense stimulation compared to their plastic counterparts.

Why it's worth it:

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The product is recommended for experienced users who want to take acupressure to the next level. The hypoallergenic Lyapko mat has medical device status, so it is safe to use. A great advantage of this mat is that it can be easily washed and dried, due to the material (rubber).

Note: 

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The spacing of the needles is selected according to the individual sensitivity of the skin. For children, people with sensitive skin or those with a slim build, a needle spacing of 4.9-5.8 mm is recommended. For people with low to average skin sensitivity and those with a more slender build, flat applicators with a needle spacing of 6.2-7.0 mm are recommended.

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Lyapko small mat with metal spikes

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Small spiked mat ideal for point massage, e.g. of the lumbar or feet. Can be used in addition to the classic mat when we need stronger stimulation.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: mat

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Dimensions of mat: length 23.3 cm, width 11.9 cm

Material of needle: copper, iron, zinc, silver, nickel

Number of needles: 1500

Needle spacing: 6.2 mm

Material of mat: medical rubber

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This mat from Lyapko will be ideal for point massage such as foot or lumbar massage. It is worth considering purchasing this product in addition to the classic mat with plastic spikes. 

Why it is worthwhile:

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Even if you don't need intensive full-body stimulation with metal needles, it's good to have a small version and use it spot-on (e.g. on more painful or tense areas). The mat is compact and easy to keep clean.

Permanent pain can be a symptom of a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Read:

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Pranamat ECO with cushion

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Eco Premium
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High-quality acumata with research-proven positive effects on the body. This product is more than just a mat. It is an investment in health and the environment.

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Description of the product:

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Set contents: akumata, cushion

Dimensions of mat: length 73 cm, width 45 cm

Dimensions cushion: length 34 cm, width 45 cm

Material spreads: hypoallergenic HIPS plastic

Number rosettes: 221 (126 on mat, 95 on cushion)

Material of mat: cotton, len

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Filling: coir fibre (mattress), buckwheat hull (cushion)

The iconic Pranamat ECO mats are an option for those living in the spirit of ecology and who value high quality. The mat is OEKO-TEX certified, which means it contains no harmful substances and is safe for the skin. 

Why it's worth it:

The rosettes are made of completely smooth and non-porous HIPS plastic. Thanks to the special technology of attaching the rosettes to the mattress, you will not be exposed to toxic glue, acetone or other chemicals. 

The filling of the mat is made of natural coconut fibre, on which you will be comfortable. The outer pillowcase is pure, airy linen, and its beautiful colour comes from a hypoallergenic dye, custom-made for the company.

The outer pillowcase is made of pure, airy linen, and its beautiful colour comes from a hypoallergenic dye, custom-made for the company.

Note the whole philosophy of Pranamat, which focuses on using renewable materials, minimising waste and ethical production. The brand's interesting narrative is that the purchase of a mat is not only an investment in one's health, but also in ecology and support for the environment.

Note: 

The Pranamat company has conducted clinical studies on the health effects of its mats. The results suggest a high level of satisfaction with use and a reduction in many pain complaints.

Other acupressure products you may be interested in

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Match your mat with other interesting accessories, for full body relaxation.

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Lyapko multi-needle roller

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Give yourself a massage with 570 needles and feel the relaxation with the high-quality Lyapko roller. Ideal for massaging large parts of the body e.g. back, abdomen, buttocks.

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Foot massage mat

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For foot relaxation
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Give yourself a massage with 570 needles and feel the relaxation with the high-quality Lyapko roller. Ideal for massaging large parts of the body e.g. back, abdomen, buttocks.

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Acupressure rings

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Relax on every budget.... literally! Pocket-sized massage rings that will improve circulation and relax you while you're standing in a long queue or watching your favourite movie.

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Corner" neck pillow

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Take it on the go
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The ideal companion for travelling or relaxing at home with your favourite TV series. The pillow relaxes and reduces neck tension.

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Acupressure balls

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Relax your hands
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Magnetic massage balls promote coordination, mobility and blood circulation in the hand area. It has 412 massage points.

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Important

If you are not sure how to use your mat or other acupressure accessories, ask your physiotherapist for guidance. By the way, learn how to take care of tension and pain reduction on a daily basis, so that home acupressure is a pleasant complement to the treatment of your ailments.

What is acupressure?

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Acupressure is an alternative treatment method originating in Chinaand. It assumes that pressing appropriate acupuncture points in the body stimulates nerve endings connected to internal organs located in given areas of the body. The resulting nerve impulses reach the affected organ and have a positive effect on reducing pain and improving organ function.

Scientific evidence supporting the positive effects of acupressure on various areas of health is limited or inconclusiveand. However, it is a safe, non-invasive and easily accessible method for everyone that can provide relief from pain and tension.

Alternative treatments are a variety of remedies and therapies that are used for therapeutic or preventive purposes, but whose beneficial effects have not been proven or are negligible in the light of traditional (conventional) medicine.

Does a spiked mat help?

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Yes, the spiked mat helps with many tension and pain complaints. Even if we are sceptical about acupressure, its theories about energy flow and the balance of yin and yang, we cannot deny the effect that pressure and stimulation has on our muscles.

The spiked mat is a great way to help our muscles.

Stimulation of nerve endings, such as with an acupressure mat, induces a course of impulses in our nervous system. On a physical level, acupressure canand:

  • increase blood flow through the internal organs, 
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  • expand blood vessels,
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  • increase muscle temperature,
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  • affect blood pressure and heart rhythm,
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  • affect the neurohormonal system (e.g. hormone production).
  • .
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The pressure of the spikes on the tissues results in increased congestion, better oxygen transport and faster regeneration. Such stimulation also has a relaxing and loosening effect on the whole body, as it is a stimulus for the nervous system.
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Justyna Wawryszuk.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

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When will I see results?

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A reduction in pain and a reduction in body tension can be felt as soon as a few minutes after starting the massage. An acupressure session before bed can help you fall asleep after just thefirst use. If your problem is stress-related tension, massage yourself systematically and wait for the effects for a few days.

Use the mat regularly and it will certainly bring you many benefits. However, remember that using the mat alone will not cure your ailments. Work (either on your own or with the help of a physiotherapist) on correct posture, regular stretching exercises, 'movement hygiene' and try to reduce your daily stress.

Read more about the benefits of using the mat.

Recommendations for the use of acupressure mats

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An acupressure mat can help you relieve ailments such asand:

  • pain and muscle tension,
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  • stress, anxiety, depression (remember that mental health, is as important as physical health),
  • .
  • sleep disorders (e.g. difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, insomnia),
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  • premenstrual syndrome,
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  • gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. nausea, vomiting),
  • .
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If you are experiencing the above complaints, it is a signal from your body to examine your health.

Learn more from the article Blood tests: how to prepare, when and where to perform, how to interpret the results?

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Contraindications to the use of acumat

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The following conditions may be contraindications to the use of an acupressure matand:

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  • pregnancy,
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  • varicose veins,
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  • skin diseases (e.g. ringworm, wounds undergoing healing),
  • .
  • cancerous tumours,
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  • arthritis,
  • arthritis.
  • heart diseases (e.g. post-heart attack condition, coronary artery thrombosis),
  • .
  • spinal injuries,
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  • diseases of the skeletal system,
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Breastfeeding women can use the acupressure mat. There are no contraindications to this. Find a moment for yourself during the day. Remember that a relaxed mum is... a relaxed baby!
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Joanna Szlenda

Joanna Szlenda urogynaecological physiotherapist

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Side effects of using acupressure mats

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Using an acupressure mat as intended and in consultation with a specialist (e.g. physiotherapist) should not result in any negative side effects. Initial contact with the mat may cause redness of the skin (which passes within a few minutes).

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First contact with the spikes on the mat, especially for sensitive people, may not be very pleasant. To minimise discomfort, start by lying on the mat in thin clothing for a shorter period of time, such as 5 minutes. Then gradually increase the session time and increase the contact between your naked body and the spikes on the mat.
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Justyna Wawryszuk.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

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Professional reviews of acupressure mats

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Regular relaxation on an acupressure mat increases blood circulation in the tissues, accelerates metabolism in the stimulated area and is a direct stimulus to the body's regenerative capacity. The effect can be to smooth and firm the skin, improve skin tone and overall condition, and accelerate healing processes.
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Catherine Srebr.

Katarzyna SrebrCosmetologist

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I most often recommend the use of an acupressure mat to patients with back pain to relax the paraspinal muscles, increase blood circulation to the tissues and reduce pain. Relaxation on the acumata is a good complement to the manual therapy performed by the physiotherapist and to your own work on relaxation. The mat does not cure ailments, but it supports the healing and regeneration process very well.
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Justyna Wawryszuk.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

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The acupressure mat will be great for women after childbirth. It will bring relief to tired, tense muscles and be a moment of relaxation during the difficult peri-partum time. The time and intensity of the stimulus should be gradually dosed. A woman's nervous system after giving birth is very sensitive and tends to overstimulate.
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Joanna Szlenda.

Joanna Szlenda urogynaecological physiotherapist

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How to use acupressure mats

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Acupressure mats can be used in several ways:

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    .
  • Lying flat on your back or stomach. Place a mat (and pillow if you have one) on the floor and lie down on it (preferably naked). Cover yourself with a blanket so you don't get cold. The massage can last from 5 minutes to an hour.
  • .
  • Mat Walking. A great option for tired feet. Lay the mat flat on the ground and slowly walk on it or stand still. The massage can last from a few to several minutes. You can also lay the mat on the ground while working at your desk and control the pressure.
  • .
  • Sitting with a mat. Place the mat (and cushion if you have one) on a sofa or armchair, for example, while watching a TV series. Lean back comfortably (and neck if you are using a cushion). The massage will do itself!
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Tip

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Don't limit yourself - you can also take the mat outdoors. An outdoor massage surrounded by greenery is sure to intensify the relaxation!

Don't worry if you find it difficult to get used to home acupressure at first. I remember a friend of mine bought a mat with metal needles, but didn't have time to use it regularly. It served us as a birthday game of "Who can hold out longer".

Rules: whoever lasts longest on the mat - wins. Participants: amateurs themselves. Results: eight people with a funny pattern on their back. Recommended!

See accessories useful for relaxation:

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Summary

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In summary

  • Acupressure is an alternative method of treatment originating in China.
  • .
  • Acupressure mats should serve us as a supplement to pain or tension management therapies.
  • .
  • If you are experiencing chronic pain or tensions in the body, consult a physiotherapist who can show you how to take care of body relaxation on a daily basis.
  • Acupressure mats can be divided into those with plastic tabs (rosettes) or metal needles.
  • .
  • There are different sizes and shapes of mats to choose from, depending on your needs and expectations.

FAQ

What does an acupressure mat work for?.

The acupressure mat helps a wide range of ailments related to pain, tension and muscle strain. Regular use of the mat improves blood circulation, oxygenates the body and relaxes tense areas. It can naturally reduce stress and fatigue and improve skin appearance.

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. Does an acupressure mat work on cellulite?".

An acupressure mat can reduce cellulite because it works on the deeper layers of the skin, improves blood circulation and provides oxygen to the skin. However, if you want to get rid of cellulite effectively, reduce your body weight, start exercising regularly and eliminate processed foods from your diet.

. How often to use an acupressure mat?.

You can use the acupressure mat daily. Initially, start by lying on the mat for 15 minutes, and as your skin gets used to it, gradually increase the lying to 30 minutes. Daily massage will have a positive effect on reducing tension in the body and can have a positive impact on self-esteem.

. Can an acupressure mat be used with hypertension?".

The acupressure mat affects the cardiovascular system, so people with hypertension or blood clotting disorders. If you suffer from chronic cardiovascular disease, before using the mat, consult your GP, who knows your medical history and can best advise you.

. Can you use an acupressure mat on a mole?".

Yes, you can use an acupressure mat on moles, but you should protect them by sticking a patch over them. Do the same with other skin lesions, e.g. warts, warts, scabs. Remember to disinfect the mat after use.

.
. Does the acupressure mat help with sciatica?.

Yes, an acupressure mat can help in the treatment of sciatica, however, it is essential to consult a doctor or physiotherapist before using it. Akumata is only a supplement to sciatica treatment therapy and should not be the only method of pain management.

Acumata can only relieve the symptoms. This form of self-treatment will not eliminate the cause of sciatica.

. How often to perform massage on an acupressure mat?.

To maximise the potential of the acupressure mat, it is recommended to use it daily. A massage session can last around 20-30 minutes. This depends on the ailment, preference and available time of the user.

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Resources

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. See all.

A, W., Yr, T., Hm, C., Cj, T., & Ly, C. (2018). Acupressure effect on sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Medicine Reviews, 37. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2016.12.004

J, H., & Pa, L. (2021). Acupuncture in Dermatology: An Update to a Systematic Review. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine (New York, N.Y.), 27(1). https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2020.0230

M, A., Cc, E., J, H., Tm, W., Ss, Y., & Ca, S. (2018). Acupuncture and acupressure for premenstrual syndrome. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 8(8). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD005290.pub2

P, W., Pa, H., & Gs, K. (2005). The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery and injury prevention. Sports Medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 35(3). https://doi.org/10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004

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Yw, C., & Hh, W. (2014). The effectiveness of acupressure on relieving pain: A systematic review. Pain Management Nursing : Official Journal of the American Society of Pain Management Nurses, 15(2). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmn.2012.12.005

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Nina Wawryszuk - Author

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Michael Bojemski
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Since 2017 he has been professionally associated with REHEALTHY Health Clinic Arkadiusz Martyniuk and Fizjoexpress by REHEALTHY. Advocate of prevention and natural treatment methods. Believes that an individual approach to working with the patient is the basis for success. "Part of treatment depends on the will to heal." - Seneca the Younger

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