Many of you probably have heard me talk about undergoing a total knee replacement in 2016. These past two years has taught me a lot. Thanks to my informative and helpful physical therapist’s, I was introduced to several different methods that could help aid in my recovery.
If you are in physical therapy now, bring these up to your therapist as they may be able to implement these tools during your session if they have the qualified training to do so.
I have seen regular physical therapists, but now see Certified Functional Manual Therapists whom introduced me to the majority of these items.
They can be used before surgery or long after your orthopedic surgeon gives you clearance. Here are some of the items that I find helpful and hopefully you can too.
JUNIOR PLUNGER
This helps loosen up the soft tissues and gets the kneecap moving.
Price: $7.50
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HALF FOAM ROLL
I use this foam roller to stretch out my leg. I simply put my ankle on it and let my leg hang. It can be used in addition to the stretch strap listed in this article. Price: $7.50
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SACRAL BLOCK
This is a sacral block for well your sacrum, which is near your lower back. This great to use while driving long distances or sitting at a chair doing work for long hours as it takes the strain off of your back. Simply tuck it into your pants or sit against it. Also can be used laying down during ab workouts while bracing and keeping your pelvis stable. Price: $14.00
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PREMIUM QUALITY CUPPING SET
Made in Korea. This was introduced to me by one of my physical therapists. It can help release stubborn muscles and help with scar tissue. It’s a life saver. There are different options in terms of how many cups you get. This one offers 19 plus pumping handle. If you do get this make sure you get the handle because it makes it a lot easier. Price: $36.99
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LURE ESSENTIALS ADVANCED BODY CUPPING SYSTEM
This cupping set comes in various sizes and colors. Easy to use, however if your hands have damage from arthritis it can be a bit hard to press down on your own. I love that these can fit in your bag or purse, and are travel friendly. Perfect for on the go needs. Price: $39.99
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STRETCH OUT STRAP BY DKSA
The stretch strap comes with a booklet to guide you on how to do pretty much any stretch imaginable. Stretching is crucial before and after surgery and in daily life in general. I use this everyday. Price: $15.95
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TUBAGRIP
This is a compression sleeve that offers support. They come in various sizes and for different body parts. I used mine all the time prior to knee surgery because it provided snug support when I was in pain, feeling inflamed or unstable while walking. Price: $19.00
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MAJI SPORTS BALL
Trigger point ball can be used pretty much anywhere on the body, picture not available. Price: $24.95
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MAJI SPORTS FOAM ROLLER
Another tool to get those pesky muscle knots out. Price: several options to choose from, prices vary.
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FASCIA MASSAGE ROLLER
On hard to reach areas it’s best if you have someone else do it for you. However, this works really well when you need to massage out your quad and other leg muscles. Price: $14.99
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ORGONO SILICIA GEL
Amazing for scar tissue, pain and inflammation. Game changer, I love this. Price: They are currently on backorder and the price is ridiculously high. I got mine for around $29. Keep a look out as this is good for healing scars and minimizing their appearance.
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SUNFOODS MEDICINAL MSM LOTION
Creamy texture and great moisturizer. Comes in different scents. This version is their medicinal one that helps with pain, inflammation and scar tissue on a deeper level than the regular versions. Price: $12.99
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SUNFOODS SOOTHING MSM ALOE GEL
This is very soothing and helps with pain, inflammation and scar tissue. Price: $12.99
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VITAMIN E OIL
Literally a game-changer when it comes to diminishing the appearance of your scar. It also keeps the area moisturized which is extremely important so the scar can heal well. I love this. Price: $8.14
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FASCIA FREE LOTION
Great for massaging out scar tissue and tight muscles, Price: Comes in two sizes. 2 oz is $12 and 4 oz is $18.
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Note: This post is meant to provide a guide for those who are planning to have a total knee replacement or already had the surgery. Always talk to your physical therapist and doctor before starting any sort of treatment plan. Even if you read something online that was written by a medical professional, it’s still important to discuss what you read and hear with YOUR doctor and medical team, to see if it’s a good fit for you. Knowledge is power, so get informed and ask questions. People who don’t need a total knee replacement but have some form of arthritis or just looking for different techniques, can still use these products!
