Acupuncture mats: what are they for and why everyone is so obsessed with them

Pressure point 

Thanks to oriental medicine, we know that by acting on various points on the surface of the body, you can “get” to the internal organs. Yogis stood on nails for this, ancient healers were fond of acupuncture, and now acupuncture rugs can be used. 

In the 80s of the last century, they were very popular and were present in almost every family as an integral part of maintaining health. Then they were undeservedly forgotten. But today this gadget is back and has become very popular.

It looks like a thin mattress with plastic needles of various shapes. You need to lie down on the mat and try to relax. It will not be easy the first time, seasoned people warn. 

“You don’t get used to the sensations right away – at first you can put on a T-shirt, gradually increase the duration of the session. Breathe calmly. You can exhale twice as long, ”says hatha yoga coach, instablogger Anastasia Stepina on her Instagram.

Types of massage mats

Massage mats are of different types, differing not only in the principle of operation, but also in price. Some have a fabric base, others a plastic base. There are also silicone and rubber based. Plates with needles or thorns are attached to the top. Typically, the needles are “collected” in repeating patterns and are staggered or straight.

The mats are divided into “bandages” – for affecting the cervical spine, “pillows” – for head massage, “rollers” – for the lower back, and, in fact, full-size – universal for any part of the spine, arms, legs and feet.

What is the use of a rug? 

In the USSR, they “put” on rugs from childhood. Young parents are still advised to “walk” on them with their little ones – the point effect of needles on the heels forms the child’s foot, helping to avoid flat feet. Adult rugs meet several needs. They sit on them for general tone and reduce back pain when working at a computer, lie on them to improve the functioning of internal organs, stand to stimulate the brain due to improved blood circulation. In addition, the point effect “invigorates” the body, if you walk on the rug, and soothes, if you lie on it.

Athletes can use the mat both before training to warm up the muscles and prepare them for the load, or after it to help build blood and relax. You can use it not only at home, but, for example, in a car, placing it on the back of the driver’s seat.

Also, experts say, the rug can be useful for those who want to say goodbye to excess weight and cellulite. But it should be borne in mind that the effect will be noticeable only in combination with physical activity.

Who is the massage mat contraindicated for?

Despite the obvious benefits, acupuncture mats have a number of contraindications. They are not recommended for pregnant women, patients with diabetes and oncology. Do not affect areas of the body that have papillomas, large moles or wounds. It is forbidden to use the mat with a tendency to bleeding, poor blood clotting and heart failure.

Expert opinion

Endocrinologist Ilya Magera shared a small survey conducted among his followers on Instagram. The study involved more than 300 people, most of whom noted the help of self-massage in the fight against pain in the back and lower back. 

“This is a relaxation of muscle tension that causes discomfort in the back. And the second is the release of pain-relieving hormones into the brain, ”the doctor explained. In addition, patients reported improved sleep quality, increased strength, and decreased swelling. 

Neurologist, chiropractor Dmitry Shubin also does not deny the benefits of acupuncture mats. He believes that the impact on pain points helps to reduce sensitivity, but is not a treatment: “We are talking about pain that is associated with lesions of the joints, large joints of the legs and vertebral joints. Under the weight of the human body, “needles” irritate pain receptors, muscles relax, and the pain disappears for a while. This is not a treatment, but stopping it in the moment. “

What the price depends on 

The price range of the rug is from 1 to 12 thousand rubles. Depends primarily on the brand, on the materials used and on the quality of the needles. Inexpensive, compact size applicators are suitable for those who will use them only occasionally, for preventive purposes. Full-size rugs will appeal to those who experience cyclical or persistent back pain and chronic fatigue. 

In any case, before you start using an acupuncture mat, you need to pay attention to contraindications and consult a specialist – a therapist, neuropathologist, endocrinologist or traumatologist.