Real contraindications of the acupressure mat.

The acupressure mat is safe for most healthy adults, but not for everyone. Some brands omit real contraindications to avoid losing sales. Here are the ones you need to know before buying.

Absolute contraindications (don't use)

1. Pregnancy

Especially during the first trimester. Acupressure generates local vasodilation and, according to some Chinese medicine traditions, certain areas (especially lower lumbar) may stimulate uterine contractions. There's no clear scientific evidence, but the risk isn't worth it. Wait until post-partum.

2. Pacemaker or electronic implants

If you have a pacemaker or any electronic implant in the area where the spikes would go (chest, upper back), don't use it on that area. Mechanical pressure on the implant may affect its function.

3. Anticoagulant treatment

If you take warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, heparin or other anticoagulants, do NOT use it. Acupressure generates small microhematomas under the skin (part of the vasodilation mechanism). In anticoagulated people, these hematomas become significant and may lead to complications.

4. Hemophilia or coagulation disorders

Same reason as anticoagulants. Acupressure is repeated pressure on thousands of points — not safe if your blood doesn't clot properly.

5. Open wounds or active eczema in contact area

The spikes are ABS plastic and are cleaned with a damp cloth, not sterilized. On skin with wounds, active eczema or plaque psoriasis, there's risk of infection and exacerbating the condition.

6. Severe varicose veins

On legs with severe varicose veins, repeated pressure may worsen venous insufficiency. Don't use on legs with visible varicose veins, much less if your doctor has prescribed treatment.

Relative contraindications (consult first)

High blood pressure

Acupressure lowers blood pressure (parasympathetic activation). If you take antihypertensive medication, it may create symptomatic hypotension in the first sessions. Start with short sessions (5-10 minutes) and tell your doctor.

Serious circulatory issues

Previous thrombosis, deep venous insufficiency, arterial ischemia. Consult your doctor first — not an absolute contraindication but requires caution.

Active cardiovascular pathology

Post-infarction, heart failure, uncontrolled arrhythmias. Rapid parasympathetic activation may have effects. Consult first.

Active cervical or lumbar injury

Disc hernia, diagnosed cervicalgia, acute lumbalgia. Acupressure may help or worsen — depends on the case. Consult your physio before starting.

Children under 14

Not without adult supervision. Children's skin is more sensitive and rapid parasympathetic activation may cause dizziness in small people. If you want your child to use it, supervise the first sessions and always use with a long-sleeve t-shirt.

What is NOT a contraindication

Some warnings circulating online are false or exaggerated. Acupressure IS safe for:

• Healthy older adults. Start with short sessions, ideally with a thin t-shirt.
• Sensitive skin. Spikes are rigid ABS and only the textile touches the skin. No dermal irritation if there's no active eczema.
• People with generalized chronic pain (fibromyalgia, etc.). Acupressure can help — but start very gradually.
• Diabetes. Not a contraindication. Just pay attention if you have peripheral neuropathy (feet with altered sensitivity).

Signs you should stop

If during a session you feel:

• Intense dizziness or disorientation
• Sharp pain (not normal initial discomfort, but stabbing pain)
• Tingling in extremities
• Nausea

Get off the mat. It's a sign your nervous system is responding poorly to the stimulus. Not dangerous, but not for you — at least not now, not at that frequency or duration.

Why do some brands omit these contraindications?

Because the full list is scary. Selling wellness on Amazon at €25 with "ideal for everyone" descriptions is easier. But acupressure is NOT for everyone, and omitting this is dishonest.

If your acupressure brand doesn't give you these warnings before purchase, consider what else they're hiding.

Before buying: 3 honest questions

Do you have any absolute contraindication? Don't buy it.

Do you have any relative contraindication? Consult your doctor before ordering.

Are you healthy and just unsure? Start with short sessions (10 min, thin t-shirt) and scale based on your response. Complete duration guide here.

The CREATH-MAT has a 30-day return if unused. If you read the contraindications and have doubts, better don't open it until you consult.