Spiked acupressure mat: ranking, reviews, how to use

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

TekstNina Wawryszuk

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Nina Wawryszuk

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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

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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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Spiked acupressure mat: ranking, reviews, how to use

26 July, 2024

14 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.

From this article you will learn:

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

What is an acupressure mat and what are the types

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.

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.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

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?

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

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,
the filling of the mattress,
type of spikes,
the material of the rosettes,
number of stimulation points,
additional accessories (e.g. cushion).

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?

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.

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?

. .

For whom? .	Recommended type of mat .
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.

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.

Michal Bojemski physiotherapist

Best acupressure mats - ranking

I have prepared a summary of acupressure mats, considering:

the user's level of sophistication,
price,
accessibility,
expectations in terms of stimulation strength,

With the purchase criteria described above, you are sure to choose the perfect mat for yourself or a loved one.

Mats for beginners

Mats for intermediate and advanced

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

Other acupressure products you may be interested in

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

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?

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?

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,
expand blood vessels,
increase muscle temperature,
affect blood pressure and heart rhythm,
affect the neurohormonal system (e.g. hormone production).

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.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

When will I see results?

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

An acupressure mat can help you relieve ailments such asand:

pain and muscle tension,
stress, anxiety, depression (remember that mental health, is as important as physical health),
sleep disorders (e.g. difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, insomnia),
premenstrual syndrome,
gastrointestinal disorders (e.g. nausea, vomiting),

If you are experiencing the above complaints, it is a signal from your body to examine your health.

Contraindications to the use of acumat

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

pregnancy,
varicose veins,
skin diseases (e.g. ringworm, wounds undergoing healing),
cancerous tumours,
arthritis,
arthritis.
heart diseases (e.g. post-heart attack condition, coronary artery thrombosis),
spinal injuries,
diseases of the skeletal system,

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!

Joanna Szlenda urogynaecological physiotherapist

Side effects of using acupressure mats

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).

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.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

Professional reviews of acupressure mats

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.

Katarzyna SrebrCosmetologist

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.

Justyna Wawryszukphysiotherapist

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.

Joanna Szlenda urogynaecological physiotherapist

How to use acupressure mats

Acupressure mats can be used in several ways:

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!

Tip

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:

Summary

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.

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.

Resources

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

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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