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We Tested the Best Acupressure Mats to Relieve Stress and Tension at Home

From Amazon, HigherDose, Gaiam, and more

By
Neha Tandon
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Neha has a love (and knack) for finding the best beauty, style, and health products. After getting her Master's degree in journalism, she has been guided by seasoned editors and mentors to write for some of the most reputable media brands in New York, from Cosmopolitan and New York Magazine to Women's Health.

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and
Michelle Parente, CYT
Michelle Parente

Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness content. As a commerce writer, it's Michelle's mission to provide researched and reliable product recommendations.

Learn about our editorial process
Updated on December 15, 2023
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Medically reviewed by Sara Clark

Sara Clark is an EYT 500-hour certified Vinyasa yoga and mindfulness teacher, lululemon Global Yoga Ambassador, model, and writer.

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DoSensePro Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set wrapped in clear packaging

Verywell Fit / Bridget Annear

Acupressure mats have become popular as a holistic, at-home treatment tool for post-workout recovery and stress relief. Similar to acupuncture, acupressure aims to facilitate the free flow of chi (Qi) energy through the body by stimulating pressure points. The best acupressure mats are intuitive, effective, and durable—offering an enjoyable experience.

While research on the effects of acupressure mats remains limited, many practitioners suggest some potential benefits—more on those below. To see if acupressure mats are worth the hype and find the best options on the market, we started by speaking with experts—one acupuncturist and two physical therapists—on what key features to look for. Then we tested 15 acupressure mats at home in our regular recovery routines. Our top options receive high scores for comfort, design, effectiveness, durability, and overall value. We also had an EYT 500-hour certified yoga and mindfulness teacher from our Review Board review this article for accuracy, how to safely use acupressure mats, and the best way to evaluate them.

How Do Acupressure Mats Work? 

Acupressure mats have small spikes strategically placed across their surface that target pressure points throughout the body, promoting the free flow of chi (Qi) energy. When you sit or lie on these mats, the pressure point stimulation aims to counteract imbalances, boost circulation, reduce muscle soreness, and more, acupuncturist Gudrun Snyder says. 

Benefits of Acupressure Mats

Though research on the benefits of acupressure is limited, experts we spoke to say that it can: 

  • Ease muscle tension and stiffness 
  • Release endorphins 
  • Promote relaxation and recovery
  • Reduce stress 
  • Relieve pain 
  • Prevent imbalances 
  • Boost circulation
CXCTCT Extra-Long Yoga Acupressure Mat Set

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Has over 12,000 spikes

  • Provides effective tension relief

  • Comes with a carrying case

Cons
  • May be too intense for some

Key Specs

Materials: Cotton, high elastic medical sponge spikes | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 5/5

Who It’s For

Best for targeting your whole body with intense treatment.

Why We Love It

CXCTCT’s Extra-Long Yoga Acupressure Mat Set provides rapid relief in just a few minutes. That, along with its ease of use, added accessories, and durable design, make it our clear winner. The mat itself feels firm and supportive, while offering a comfortable base to lie and sit on. Meanwhile, the over 12,000 intense spikes deliver an intense treatment. 

During testing, this mat eased our back pain, relieved stress, improved sleep, reduced tension, and more. We used it on the floor, couch, and bed—getting full body coverage thanks to its extra-long design. At 47 inches long, it’s the largest mat we tested.

The mat also comes with a cushion, two spikey balls, and a carrying case for portability. We love using the cushion under our neck, knees, and feet for added comfort and relief. Plus, we use the spikey balls as a myofascial release tool for deeply targeting specific pain points on the go. 

Potential Flaws

  • The spikes can feel quite intense at first, so we recommend wearing a thick layer of clothing for your first few sessions. 

Most Valuable Insight

“The day the mat arrived, it was a godsend. It helps me get a good night's sleep, be able to stand up straight when my back hurts, and ease my stress. I feel more loose and flexible after using it for just a few minutes.” —Mike Navarro, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Small Spaces

CALIA Acupressure Mat

CALIA Acupressure Mat

Dicks Sporting Goods

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Rolls up for easy storage and portability

  • Great for beginner to intermediate users

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Might be too small for some

Key Specs

Materials: Not listed | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for on-the-go use and small spaces, especially for beginner to intermediate users. 

Why We Love It

Not too soft, yet not too intense, Calia’s Acupressure Mat is ideal for beginner to intermediate users. It’s also great for small spaces since it’s shorter and narrower than most and easily rolls up for convenient storage. The mat has 5,850 spikes that we found work to effectively relieve back and neck tension, even after just one use. 

The small yet mighty mat also comes with a cushioned pillow that we use under our neck and knees for added comfort and relaxation. After using this mat every day for several weeks, we noticed no signs of wear and tear—making it even more worth its already budget-friendly price

Potential Flaws

  • While the smaller size is convenient for portability and storage, you won’t get as much coverage as other mats when lying down. 

Most Valuable Insight

“I use it pretty frequently and I'm surprised by how nice it feels and how helpful it is for relieving tension.” —Sarah Felbin, commerce editor and Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Upper Back and Shoulders

Pranamat ECO Manual Massage Set

Pranamat ECO Basic Massage Set (Turquoise- Turquoise)

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Design
    4.6/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Provides effective tension relief

  • Large pillow

  • Added heat function

Cons
  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Plastic, cotton, coconut fiber | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who It’s For

Best to relieve tension in your upper back and shoulders with added heat functions. 

Why We Love It

Pranamat’s Eco Basic Massage Set relieved tension in our upper back and shoulders within minutes of our first session—and we continued to reap the benefits throughout testing. The comfy mat is firm and supportive, with medium-intensity spikes spread throughout. It also includes a large pillow that you can move around to target tight areas across your whole body. 

Unlike most of the mats we tested, this one has an added adjustable heat function for even more relaxation. We use this mat on hardwood and carpeted floors, a bed, and a couch, feeling equally comfortable on all surfaces. We haven’t noticed any fraying or ruined spikes throughout testing, so we think this mat is worth the investment.

Potential Flaws

  • This is one of the more expensive options that we tested. But we think its effectiveness, added functions, and durability make it worth the higher price. 

Most Valuable Insight

“After even one use, my back felt much looser and relaxed, enhancing my overall relaxation and comfort level. Each time I experience immediate pain relief and reduced muscle tension.” —Alicia Dolieslager, Verywell Fit product tester

DoSensePro Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Design
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Comes with a hot and cold gel pack

  • Easy to use

  • Comes with a carrying case

Cons
  • May not be intense enough for some

Key Specs

Materials: Cotton, non-toxic plastic | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5

Who It’s For

Best for beginner to intermediate users who prefer gentle pressure. 

Why We Love It

We found the padded mat and soft spikes of DoSensePro’s Acupressure Mat to be the most gentle out of all the options we tested. Still, despite the comfort, we found immediate pain relief in our back and shoulders after just one use. Upon repeated and consistent usage, our pain completely disappeared. 

The mat also comes with a pillow, carrying case, and hot and cold gel pack which you can use for targeted relief. Its medium size is comparable to many of the options we tested, letting you target your full upper body and some of your lower body at once. We love that this mat is gentle enough for beginners, while still providing benefits. 

Potential Flaws

  • Those with a higher pain tolerance might not find these spikes intense enough.

Most Valuable Insight

“This mat is a lifesaver! I have shoulder pain daily, however after using this mat it's GONE with frequent use!” —Bridget Annear, Verywell Fit product tester 

Sivan Back and Neck Pain Relief Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Effectiveness
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Rolls up for easy storage and portability

  • Removable covers

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • Pillow may be too wide

Key Specs

Materials: Non-toxic plastic | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.7/5

Who It’s For


Best for daily use and beginner to intermediate users. 

Why We Love It

Sivan’s Back and Neck Pain Relief Acupressure Mat features a removable cover that makes hand-washing easy. But even after using this mat over 20 times, we never had to clean it thanks to its durable, high-quality materials. Plus, it rolls up easily for convenient storage and portability between uses, helping to avoid dirt and debris.

The thick, one-inch padding provides solid support, while the hard spikes offer reduced muscle tension and full-body relaxation within the first 10 minutes of use. We found this mat so effective that we noticed a difference in our bodies on days we skipped sessions. 

Potential Flaws

  • The pillow feels wider than other options we tested, which we found slightly uncomfortable when used under the neck.
Amazon ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set for Back/Neck Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    5/5
Pros
  • Durable

  • Ideal size for upper-body relief

  • Provides effective tension relief

Cons
  • Pillow feels flimsy

Key Specs

Materials: Natural linen, cotton, foam, plastic | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who It’s For

Best for buyers on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice quality and durability. 

Why We Love It

Don’t be fooled by the low price tag on Prosource Fit’s Acupressure Mat and Pillow, we’ve been testing it for three years and it still looks as good as new. It’s highly effective, too. The soft mat and over 10,000 medium-intensity spikes relieve pain and loosen the muscles in our back and shoulders after relaxing 20-minute sessions. 

The size is designed to target your upper and lower body separately, but you can always purchase the longer version for full-body relief. We love lying on this mat after a long day of slouching over the computer—it’s a great post-work ritual to relieve stress and stiffness

Potential Flaws

  • The pillow is a bit flimsy and doesn’t provide a lot of support, but this was only a minor inconvenience and doesn’t take away from the mat's quality or effectiveness. 

Most Valuable Insight

“I think the fact that I've been using this mat consistently for three years answers the question of its effectiveness! It works wonders for my back, especially my upper back and shoulders.” —Kristen Geil, Verywell Fit product tester

Best for Targeted Relief

WTHN Acupressure Mat Set

Revolve WTHN Acupressure Mat Set

Revolve

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Durability
    4.5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Provides effective tension relief

  • Comfortable padding

  • Aesthetically pleasing

Cons
  • Not portable

Key Specs

Materials: Coconut fiber, linen, memory foam | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who It’s For

Best for targeting specific areas, like the upper back or glutes, separately. 

Why We Love It

Within 30 seconds of lying on WTHN’s Acupressure Mat Set, we felt completely relaxed. The firm and supportive mat features thousands of medium-intensity spikes that deliver many benefits. We noticed pain relief, reduced stress, and even better sleep. 

Believe it or not, improved sleep is a common side effect of acupressure, says physical therapist Jordan Beall. You may even experience a better mood, too, he adds. Beyond the benefits, we love that this mat comes with a convenient carrying case, as well as an aesthetically pleasing design (in case you choose to leave it out). We also appreciate that it’s high-quality and durable, showing no signs of excessive wear throughout testing. 

Potential Flaws

  • This mat comes with a carrying case, but we found it somewhat difficult to roll up and store inside. 

Most Valuable Insight

“I use this mat at least two to three times a week and I always feel so much better after the fact. It helps me relax, calm down, and relieve any general back pain.” —Krisha Joshi, Verywell Fit product tester 

Best With Heat Therapy

Higher Dose Infrared PEMF Go Mat

Higher Dose Infrared PEMF Go Mat

Nordstrom

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4.5/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4.5/5
Pros
  • Durable

  • Supports better sleep, energy, and focus

  • Easy to use

Cons
  • Pricier than other options

Key Specs

Materials: Non-toxic leather, infrared, charcoal, clay, medical-grade magnet, amethyst, obsidian | Pillow: No | Carrying case: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Who It’s For

Best if you want to invest in a self-care wellness tool for better sleep, energy, and focus. 

Why We Love It

HigherDose’s Infrared PEMF Go Mat doesn’t have spikes like the other acupressure mats we tested. Instead, it uses electric currents, infrared heat, and crystals to facilitate a calming effect. During testing, we noticed immediate calm, as well as improved sleep, focus, and stress.

The mat also comes with a carrying case and remote control to easily adjust the heat and pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) levels. And we love that, unlike other acupressure mats, there’s no discomfort at all because of the lack of spikes. We also appreciate that this mat is super durable, showing no signs of wear—it’s a true splurge-worthy wellness tool. 

Potential Flaws

  • This mat is pricier than other options on our list, and it doesn’t have a headrest for added comfort and coverage. Still, if you want to splurge, we think it’s worth it. 
Gaiam Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set

Amazon

Our Ratings
  • Comfort
    4.5/5
  • Design
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4.5/5
  • Durability
    5/5
  • Value
    4/5
Pros
  • Relieves headaches

  • Durable

  • Budget-friendly

Cons
  • May not be as effective

Key Specs

Materials: Not listed | Pillow: Yes | Carrying case: No | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who It’s For

Best if you deal with headaches and neck tension.

Why We Love It

Do you deal with headaches and neck tension? Gaiam’s Acupressure Mat might help—it did for us. After lying on the mat and resting his head on the pillow for just five minutes, one tester noticed his headache had melted away. We even used the pillow alone, without the mat, for targeted head and neck relief.

Compared to other options we tested, the mat has medium-intensity spikes—making it a solid choice for beginner to advanced users. Plus, we didn’t notice any signs of fraying edges or disturbed spikes, so this budget-friendly buy is durable, too.

Potential Flaws

  • We didn’t use the mat as much as we used the pillow, since the pillow proved to be so effective for the head and neck. 

We Also Tested

Where We Stand

After testing 15 acupressure mats, CXCTCT Extra-Long Yoga Acupressure Mat Set stood out the most for its added features, reliable effectiveness, and fair price. As we continue to test acupressure mats, we will update this list if we notice any significant changes we haven’t yet noted here.

What to Look for When Shopping for Acupressure Mats

  • Materials: Acupressure mats made with high-quality materials will be more effective and long-lasting. For optimal comfort and durability, choose a mat with padding that’s sturdy, non-toxic foam, not polyurethane. Generally, the spikes are made from plastic. 
  • Spikes: The more spikes on a mat, the easier it is to adjust to the treatment and the more pressure points you’ll hit. Most quality mats have anywhere from 6,000 to more than 10,000 spikes. Our top pick, CXCTCT’s Extra-Long Yoga Acupressure Mat Set, has over 12,000 spikes. 
  • Size: Acupressure mats vary in length and width, so consider how much coverage you’ll need and where on your body you want to treat. Larger mats, like CXCTCT’s Extra-Long Yoga Acupressure Mat Set, let you target the upper and lower body at the same time. Smaller mats, like TimeBeeWell Eco-Friendly Back and Neck Pain Relief, are great for addressing specific areas on the body (like your feet or lower back) and on-the-go use.
  • Extra Features: Some mats come with extra features like a pillow, carrying bag, and even infrared heat. When shopping, consider what add-ons are important to you. Mats with a pillow, like CXCTCT’s Extra-Long Yoga Acupressure Mat Set, may add comfort, while heated mats like, HigherDose’s Infrared PEMF Go Mat, can deepen relaxation. 
  • Cost: Acupressure mats typically cost between $30 to $700. While still high-quality and effective, budget-friendly mats like ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow don’t have the added features and technology as higher-price items, like HigherDose Infrared PEMF Go Mat

How We Tested the Acupressure Mats

To find the best acupressure mats, we tested 15 options from top, trusted brands. When testing, we evaluate each one based on the following key criteria: 

  • Comfort: To assess for comfort, we consider the mat, spikes, and any headrests or pillows. We sit or lie on the mat to feel its cushioning: Does it provide adequate support? Is it too soft or firm? While the spikes are not meant to be comfortable, they should still feel tolerable, so we keep that in mind when testing. We prioritize acupressure mats that have a comfortable base with spikes that are gentle enough to avoid excessive discomfort but intense enough to provide relief.
  • Design: Your mat’s size and coverage should be adequate for your specific needs. It should also have any additional features (like a headrest, carrying strap, or heat function) that are important to you. To evaluate each mat’s design, we take note of how easy and enjoyable it is to use. We award high scores to mats that are large enough and have features that add versatility and value.
  • Effectiveness: One of the most important features of an acupressure mat is effectiveness. To test for this category, we take note of how long it took us to feel any potential positive effects of the mat. We also evaluate if using the mat helps us to address any specific issues, like sleep, stress, muscle tension, and more. We only recommend mats that deliver some positive benefits. 
  • Durability: Throughout the testing period, we examine each mat for any signs of wear and tear (like fraying edges, detached or destroyed spikes, and shape deformations). We also take note of how well any added features and accessories have held up. Acupressure mats that show little to no signs of wear and tear earn high scores for durability. 
  • Value: To ensure a fair value score, we don’t look at the price of each mat until we’re done testing. Then, we assess whether we’d purchase it at its regular price, on sale, or maybe even for more. We also take note of how likely we are to use the mat regularly, after testing. Mats earn high value scores if we feel their price reflects each of the previous categories we tested for. 

Our Experts

  • Gudrun Snyder, acupuncturist and founder of Moon Rabbit Acupuncture
  • Jordan Beall, PT, DPT, physical therapist at Tribeca Physical Therapy 
  • Sandra Gail Frayna,  PT, DPT, physical therapist and founder of Hudson Premier Physical Therapy & Sports

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do you use an acupressure mat? 

To use an acupressure mat, sit or lie on it with the area you want to treat, allowing the small spikes to poke your skin. After you find a comfortable position, start with a few minutes and work your way up to 20- to 30-minute sessions each day. 

How often should you use an acupressure mat? 

To get the maximum benefits, you should use your acupressure mat for 20 to 30 minutes per day, every day.

Who should avoid using an acupressure mat? 

Anyone with an open wound, who has consumed alcohol, or is pregnant should avoid using an acupressure mat, Beall says. If you have a circulatory condition, you should also consult with your physician before use, Frayna recommends. 

What’s the difference between acupressure and acupuncture?

Acupressure can be done at home with tools like an acupressure mat. It involves applying pressure to broad areas of the body to improve circulation, relieve stress, and more. Acupuncture is a treatment performed by professionals that uses small needles to stimulate specific points on the body with more precision and potentially greater results. 

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Neha Tandon is a beauty, style, health, and wellness writer—she's an expert in discovering the best product recommendations. She has also taught yoga for the past 14 years, so she’s passionate about selecting quality products that can improve the physical and mental health of her readers. To write this article, Neha interviewed experts to better understand acupressure and thoroughly researched each product to recommend only the best.

Additional reporting by Michelle Parente

Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness content. As a commerce writer, Michelle’s mission is to provide researched and reliable product recommendations. She uses HigherDose’s Infrared PEMF Go Mat as a part of her weekly wellness routine—it helps her feel relaxed, centered, and recovered.

1 Source
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Mehta P, Dhapte V, Kadam S, Dhapte V. Contemporary acupressure therapy: Adroit cure for painless recovery of therapeutic ailments. J Tradit Complement Med. 2016;7(2):251-263. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2016.06.004

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