Can Acupressure Mats Really Make a Difference?

TikTok True or False serves as your authoritative guide to dispelling myths and misconceptions regarding health, beauty and fitness trends dominating your social media platforms. This feature critically examines the viability and safety of popular wellness advice, using expert input and scientific research. Hence, enabling readers to discern between credible advice and baseless fads.

A subject dividing TikTok users is the effectiveness of an acupressure mat. Some users hail it as an efficient tool for easing muscle tension and accelerating post-workout recovery. Detractors, on the other hand, argue some acupressure mats' sharpness borders on excessive, causing discomfort and skin indention.

Some mats, aiming to improve user understanding of their body response during use, include a reflexology map. This was exemplified by TikTok user @acubright's acupressure mat demo video, humorously captioned, 'Let's see if I bleed!' On the other hand, user @bysamanthamarch demonstrated using a regular mat (spike-covered, sans any additional features like an integrated pillow), claiming it reduces her cortisol levels and provides comfort from pain.

In order to review this trend, we prompted two experts to share their views on the effectiveness of these wellness tools, providing insights you may find useful before purchasing one.

Rahul Shah, MD, FAAOS, a certified orthopedic spine surgeon, elucidates that an acupressure mat comprises a foam cushion dotted with hundreds of minute spikes that puts pressure on specific back points when lying on it. "They are typically employed for pain alleviation, muscle repair, injury recuperation, mental relaxation, profound sleep, and meditation," he explains.

Although intimidating in appearance, these spikes are formed of non-toxic plastic, specifically constructed to apply pressure without piercing the skin, denotes Dr. Shah. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA, a family medicine-certified physician, recommends choosing an acupressure mat sporting as many spikes as possible to maximize pressure point coverage.

The utility of acupressure mats varies with individuals. These mats target body-wide pressure points to promote energy flow and blood circulation, which could potentially ease back pain, muscle discomfort, decrease stress, and alleviate headaches - states Dr. Purdy. Extending her view, Dr. Shah adds that research suggests acupressure mats could reduce pain and alleviate nausea. However, he emphasizes the need for further study to validate their full advantages and efficacy.

Dr. Purdy explains that while generally perceived as safe, acupressure mats may be discomforting to some, especially if too hard. To acclimate, she recommends starting with brief daily use, progressively increasing the duration as per preference.

Dr. Shah notes that acupressure mats are not be universally endorsed by medical practitioners or therapists. However, wider recognition may be granted as more research is conducted on their usage. Although safe for most, certain individuals are advised against their use, including pregnant women, individuals with thin skin, diabetes, poor circulation, or susceptible to skin pressure.

Dr. Purdy adds that acupressure mats may not be ideal for those with restricted mobility. The requirement to lie flat on the ground might pose challenges to individuals who struggle to bend or rise from the floor comfortably. If you have unresolved health concerns, you should discuss the use of a mat with a healthcare provider before buying one.

Acupressure mats stimulate pressure points throughout the body, boosting blood circulation. This can alleviate back pain, muscle stiffness, stress, and headaches. However, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for resolving any ongoing health concerns.