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Recovery Favorites

Curated products, tools, and small things that made my ACL recovery a little easier.

14 items · 3 core setup
Pre-surgeryWeeks before surgery
Knee braceNice to have

Some people are braced before or after surgery — whether you need one is a surgeon question.

Budget:Ask your clinic — many provide one

Ask your PT first.

CrutchesCore setup

You will use them — having a pair fitted before surgery day removes a scramble.

Budget:Pharmacy rental or borrowed pair
Early recoveryWeeks 0–6
Wedge pillowCore setup
$40–70

Elevation you can sleep with — better than a pillow stack that collapses at 3 AM.

Budget:Folded duvet under the mattress end
GoniometerNice to have

Lets you track your own extension and flexion numbers between PT visits.

Budget:Your PT measures for you at each session
Knee extension deviceNice to have

A tool some people use for extension work — ask your PT if it fits your plan.

Budget:Towel-prop heel hangs, free

Ask your PT first.

Scar sheetsCore setup

Silicone sheets are a common part of scar care once the incision is closed.

Budget:Ask your care team what they recommend
Pedal exerciserNice to have

Gentle range-of-motion work from a chair before a stationary bike makes sense.

Budget:A low stationary bike seat works too

Ask your PT first.

Theraband ankle/wrist weightsNice to have

Light weights for early leg raises — when to add load is a PT call.

Budget:A filled water bottle in a tote bag

Ask your PT first.

Building strength6 weeks – 6 months
Foam rollerNice to have
$20–35

Quad and calf recovery as training volume climbs.

Budget:A firm water bottle works
Leg resistance bandNice to have

Banded work fills the gap between PT sessions once your plan includes it.

Budget:Single long band, $12

Ask your PT first.

Muscle scraperNice to have

Some people find soft-tissue work around the knee helpful — personal preference territory.

Budget:Your hands, or a smooth spoon
Protein powderNice to have

A convenience for hitting protein when appetite or time is short — food first.

Budget:Greek yogurt, eggs, canned fish
Collagen peptidesNice to have

Ally used collagen during her recovery — whether it helps is an active research area; ask your clinician.

Budget:Skip it until your clinician weighs in
ActiPatchNice to have

A wearable some people try for comfort — evidence is mixed; ask your care team.

Budget:Ice and elevation are free

Ask your PT first.

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