A 2011 study in Iran involving 72 students found that acupressure helped reduce menstruation-related pain. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, heart issues, or any other serious medical condition, consult your doctor before using an acupressure mat.

It’s also not as versatile as some of the other options on our list, since it’s only designed to be used on feet. A randomized controlled trial examining the effects of reflexology on children with functional constipation.In the above-mentioned 2020 study on foot reflexology after kidney transplantation surgery, the group that received foot reflexology had significantly improved sleep quality. When using an acupressure mat for the first time, Scarano Ward suggests wearing socks or placing a pillowcase on the mat to ease into the sensation.

Although acupressure may provide some pain relief for people in labor, other strategies, such as ice massage, provide more significant pain reduction, according to a 2017 study. Because reflexology is moving energy and improving overall circulation, it’s easy to have a restful night’s sleep after a treatment,” explains Martinez. Acupressure mats vary in length and width, so consider how much coverage you’ll need and where you’ll be using it.Madia, who has worked with athletes ranging from competitive track and field and distance runners to average exercisers, says that a common thread across all, regardless of activity level, training age, and gender was a lack of foot and ankle strength. However, pregnant women should speak to a doctor before using an acupressure mat and should also avoid lying on their abdomen. Those who used acupressure mats recorded significantly lower pain ratings than those in the control group.

Reflexology is based on the premise that the nerves in your feet, hands and ears each correspond with other parts of your body. This mat would also make a great wellness gift for that friend who could use a little self care in their life. Remove constricting clothing and lie down on a bed or another comfortable surface before beginning the session.Pregnant women and people undergoing chemotherapy might benefit from using acupressure to treat vomiting and nausea. Aromatherapy, massage and reflexology: A systematic review and thematic synthesis of the perspectives from people with palliative care need. In conjunction with a proper exercise program, the benefits of the acupressure mat become that much greater, says Madia. Office workers who sit all day can benefit from stretching throughout the day, but if you are still feeling stiff and sore then this ProsourceFit mat and pillow set can bring you some soothing pain relief. Just like your favorite foam roller, acupressure mats promote blood flow to an area and release tension, making them suitable for recovery.

The studies that do exist have small sample sizes, and most claims regarding acupressure mats rely on anecdotal evidence. No toxic glue is used in the production of the Pranamat® ECO massage set — the patented lotuses (patent number D879314) is securely attached by employing thermal pressing technology. The benefit of a mechanical needle stimulation pad in patients with chronic neck and lower back pain: Two randomized controlled pilot studies. The more spikes on a mat, the easier it is to adjust to the treatment and the more pressure points you’ll hit.Her decades of running experience have helped her understand the value of using the best gear to improve comfort and performance. inches, it's large enough to target several areas at once, yet extremely portable thanks to the addition of a carrying bag.