Can an Acupressure Pillow Relieve Your Neck Pain?

In the summer of 2023, I experienced a particularly uncomfortable episode of cervicalgia, AKA neck pain. Unfortunately, this wasn’t new for me. Like many individuals who spend long hours sitting in front of a computer, neck strain often makes its unwanted appearance. This condition is so common that a term was coined to describe it: “tech neck.” 

I had already tried physical therapy and osteopathy, both of which had positive effects, but I was curious to explore additional solutions. Acupuncture and acupressure intrigued me but I don’t particularly enjoy needles (who does?), and you typically need several sessions with an experienced practitioner for acupuncture to be effective. That’s both time-consuming and expensive, two luxuries we can’t all afford. However, I noticed growing enthusiasm for at-home acupressure mats and pillows instead. At first, lying down on a mat full of spikes wasn’t a pleasant experience, but over time, I began enjoying those sessions that released my back tensions. After testing both mats and pillows, I prefer using the latter.

_{Prices are accurate as of March 28, 2025. Subject to change.}

How Acupressure Pillows Work

In a professional acupuncture session, tiny needles are placed on specific parts of the body called acupoints. It’s believed that they stimulate the central nervous system, releasing chemicals that jump-start your body’s natural healing abilities. Acupressure mats and pillows trade needles for plastic “spikes” that should hit the same acupoints and trigger a similar response.

Acupressure pillows, while specifically developed for the neck, can also be used on other body parts, like the back or the abdomen. They are affordable and using one fits well into a busy schedule. I use my pillow while watching movies, reading, listening to audiobooks, or working on my computer. 

How to Use an Acupressure Pillow

Generally speaking, it’s valuable to discuss acupressure pillow use with a healthcare professional, even more so if you have health conditions for which it may be contraindicated. It’s important to note that an acupressure pillow likely can’t replace physical therapy for serious injuries, but it can be a helpful tool to ease some tension.

Using an acupressure pillow while sitting, either against a wall or a chair with a high backrest, works particularly well to treat the lower part of the neck or the back. Using it on other parts of the neck could be slightly more challenging but still doable. For the upper part of my neck, I find it more effective to lie down. To target the sides, I put the pillow on a shoulder and gently bow my head laterally.

A single session for me can last quite long, but it’s best to avoid using the pillow in the same spot for prolonged periods. Consult the specific recommendations for the pillow you buy, but beginners should start slow and work up to longer sessions.

DoroSun Acupressure Pillow

You don’t need an expensive acupressure pillow to reap its benefits. At 25 dollars, this DoroSun pillow does its job with durable materials. It uses 1,782 plastic spikes to alleviate your tensions, and while it may be uncomfortable at first, don’t despair — it will soon become a walk in the park! I also love that you can choose among several colors, from bright green and pink to more neutral ones. Your pillow can easily match your home’s vibe.

Shakti Mat Acupressure Pillow

This particular acupressure pillow comes in different intensity levels, allowing for more personalized sessions. If you’re a beginner and are nervous at the thought of using spikes on your skin, light is a suitable option to start with. Seasoned users who need a lot of pressure can try advanced to relieve deeper tension. Though this pillow is more expensive, it’s also luxuriously designed with its black and gold coloring.

Kanjo Heat Therapy Acupressure Pillow

The majority of acupressure pillows use foam to create cushion like a standard pillow. This Kanjo pillow combines acupressure with heat therapy, as it’s actually a cover for a hot water bottle. Rather cold therapy instead? Just fill the rubber bottle with cold water instead.

Feature image credit: Aleksandr Golubev/ iStock