Muscle Scraping FAQ, Sidekick Tools for Injury Relief

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our products and orders.

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What is your return policy?
Are there any return fees?

None for most returns within Canada, the US, and the UK. A few exceptions:

LadderPod: customers cover return shipping costs.
- Outside Canada, the US, and the UK: customers cover return shipping and any applicable duties or taxes. We're unable to offer prepaid return labels in other regions.
- Refused or undeliverable orders: return shipping fees are deducted from the refund.

Original shipping fees are non-refundable in all cases.

How do I return a product?

Start your return at our Returns Portal, or email info@sidekicktool.com with your order number. We'll send a prepaid label (Canada, US & UK) with packing instructions. Every return is reviewed by a real person within 1–2 business days.

What about international orders?

You can still return within 60 days. Outside Canada, the US, and the UK:

Customers cover return shipping costs and any applicable duties or taxes.
- Original shipping fees are not refunded.
- If the package is refused or returned to us due to unpaid duties, return shipping fees are deducted from the refund.
- Any additional charges incurred on the return will be deducted from your refund.

Email info@sidekicktool.com to start the process.

What can't be returned?

Apparel is final sale and not eligible for return. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee only applies to purchases made on sidekicktool.com — items bought from retail partners or marketplaces fall under those retailers' policies.

How long until I get my refund?

Once we receive your return, we will process your refund back to your original method of payment within 24–48 hours.

Can I get a price adjustment if my item goes on sale?

Unfortunately, we can't issue refunds to match later promotions after an order is placed. Subscribe to our email list to stay ahead of upcoming sales.

My item arrived damaged or defective. What now?

We'll make it right. Email us with your order number, current shipping address, and a photo of the damage. We'll arrange a replacement and ship it out as soon as possible.

What's your warranty?

AxisBoard, Echo, Bow, and Eclipse come with a lifetime warranty. For AxisBoard specifically, this includes coverage for cracking and shipping costs on warranty claims.

Curve, Heel Hero, LadderPod, and Toe Spreaders are covered under a one-year warranty.

For any warranty issues, email info@sidekicktool.com with your order number and a photo clearly showing the problem.

What is the Stainless Steel Tool Lifetime Warranty?

The Stainless Steel Scraper Lifetime Warranty covers manufacturing defects from the steel casting process — if your tool flakes, rusts, or cracks, we'll replace it. This warranty does not cover scratches, dings, or dents that occur after delivery. We recommend storing your tool in a case.

I dropped my Curve Muscle Scraper and it broke — can you send a replacement?

The Curve is made of stone and can break if dropped. Our Curve scrapers come with a one-year warranty that covers a one-time replacement for accidental damage. Store your Curve in its case when not in use.

Do you have any resellers?

Yes — check our store locator page.

How can I become a reseller?

Fill out our wholesale inquiry form and our team will follow up with next steps.

Do you offer bulk pricing?

Yes. Use the wholesale inquiry form above to get started.

I entered the wrong shipping address — can you change it?

Reach out as soon as possible at info@sidekicktool.com with your order number and the corrected address. If the order hasn't shipped, we'll update it right away. If it's already shipped to the original address, the current resident can send it back with a prepaid label we provide, and we'll reship to the correct address.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes — if the order hasn't shipped yet. Email info@sidekicktool.com with your order number as soon as possible. Refunds take 5–10 business days to appear on your statement. If the order has already left our warehouse, you can return it through our Returns Portal upon arrival.

My kid placed an order by accident — can it be cancelled?

Yes. Email us right away with the order number and we'll cancel it before it ships. If it's already shipped, you can return it through the Returns Portal upon arrival.

My discount code isn't working — help?

Check that you've copied the code exactly (no extra spaces). Some codes apply only to specific products, not the whole order. Free-gift codes require the qualifying product to also be in your cart. If it's still not working, email us with the code and your cart — we can troubleshoot or apply the discount manually as a refund after your order is placed.

When is your next sale?

We routinely run sitewide promotions. Subscribe to our email list at the bottom of any page on our website to be the first to know.

My package says delivered, but I never received it. What do I do?

Where is my order? How do I track it?

Once your order ships, you'll automatically receive a tracking email. Tracking status typically updates within 24–48 hours of dispatch. If you can't find the email, check your Promotions tab or spam folder, then reach out to info@sidekicktool.com with your order number.

Items are missing from my order — what do I do?

Email us with photos of the items and packaging you received (including any labels) and your current shipping address. We'll investigate.

Are your products HSA/FSA eligible?

Yes, most of our products are HSA/FSA eligible. Thanks to our partnership with Truemed, you can pay with your HSA/FSA card at checkout, and eligibility is verified automatically.

What are FSA and HSA accounts?

Health savings accounts (HSA) and flexible spending accounts (FSA) let you set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare expenses. If you are not sure whether you have one, check with your employer or insurance company.

Can I use my HSA/FSA card at Sidekick?

Yes! We've partnered with Truemed to make this easy. During checkout, you'll see the option to pay with your HSA/FSA funds through Truemed's quick eligibility check.

Can I use my regular credit card with Truemed at checkout?

Yes. Truemed will send you instructions on how to submit for reimbursement from your HSA/FSA administrator.

What is a Letter of Medical Necessity, and how is this compliant?

The items in your Truemed Letter of Medical Necessity become qualified medical expenses in the same way a doctor visit or a prescription is. Exercise and rehab qualify as medical expenses when they treat or prevent a condition and a licensed provider substantiates the need. Your letter satisfies the IRS documentation requirement.

Are there fees for using Truemed?

No, there's no cost to you. Since Sidekick is a Truemed partner merchant, using Truemed to pay with your HSA/FSA card at checkout is completely free.

When should I use my FSA/HSA dollars?

You can use them all year. FSA dollars usually expire at the end of the plan year and may not roll over, so spend the balance before it resets — use it, so you do not lose it.

Can I use Truemed for past purchases?

No. Truemed can only issue a letter when you complete the health survey at checkout, on or before the day you buy — that is an IRS requirement and letters cannot be backdated. Choose Truemed while placing your order.

How long does the Letter of Medical Necessity take?

Usually 24–48 hours. Some qualification surveys need extra provider review. If you do not see it, check spam, then get in touch.

I do not have an HSA/FSA. Can I still benefit?

Truemed is for people who have an HSA or FSA account, or plan to fund one during open enrollment. Ask your employer whether one is available to you.

I do not live in the US. Can I get reimbursed?

Not currently — Truemed is available in the United States only.

My HSA/FSA provider rejected my claim — can I return my product?

Yes. We offer free return labels for US and Canadian customers within 60 days of purchase. If you're unsure about your provider's requirements, we recommend checking with them before purchasing.

How do I access the Sidekick app?

Download the Sidekick Relief & Recovery app:

I bought my AxisBoard before the app launched. Can I still get access?

Yes. Email us with your order number and the email address used at purchase and we'll get you set up.

The app shows a blank screen / isn't working.

Fully close the app and reopen it. If that doesn't work, remove the app and reinstall it from the App Store or Google Play. If issues persist, email us a screenshot and we'll help.

How much does shipping cost?

We offer free shipping to anywhere in the USA, no order minimum. Expedited options are available for an extra charge and will be displayed at checkout.

Note: LadderPod orders to non-contiguous states (Hawaii, Alaska) do not qualify for free shipping.

How long will it take to receive my order?

Free shipping typically delivers in 2-4 business days for the contiguous US on LadderPod and AxisBoard. All other products deliver in 3-6 business days. Delivery times may be extended for Alaska, Hawaii, and remote or rural addresses.

Will my order have additional charges?

No. All orders ship from our US warehouse, so there are no extra shipping-related charges.

Do you ship to PO Boxes or Military APO/FPO addresses?

Yes, we ship to both PO Boxes and Military APO/FPO addresses.

Note: LadderPod orders cannot be shipped to PO Boxes.

Where do you ship to?

We ship worldwide!

How does LadderPod shipping work?

The LadderPod ships in two separate packages. Your tracking page will show "1 of 2 Piece Shipment" — clicking that section reveals the second tracking number.

How much does shipping cost?

We offer free shipping on orders $75.00 CAD and above. A flat-rate fee of $9.00 applies to orders under $75.00 CAD. Expedited and Express options are available at checkout.

How long will it take to receive my order?

Free shipping typically delivers in 5–7 business days. Expedited and Express options deliver in 1–3 business days. Delivery times may be extended for remote or rural addresses.

Where do you ship to?

We ship worldwide!

How does LadderPod shipping work?

The LadderPod ships in two separate packages. Your tracking page will show "1 of 2 Piece Shipment" — clicking that section reveals the second tracking number.

Will my order have additional charges?

No. All orders ship from our Canada warehouse, so there are no extra shipping-related charges.

How much does shipping cost?

We offer Free 2-Day Delivery for most products, shipped from our UK location.

Some products are shipped from outside the UK which can take up to 10 business days.

How long will it take to receive my order?

Orders shipped from our UK location should arrive within 2 days.

Orders shipped from outside the UK can take up to 10 business days.

Will my order have additional charges?

No. VAT and duties are included in the price shown on the site — no additional charges at checkout.

How do returns work?

We offer free returns. Submit a return request via the Returns Portal and we'll send a prepaid return label. Refunds may take up to a couple of weeks to process.

Where do you ship to?

We ship worldwide!

How does LadderPod shipping work?

The LadderPod ships in two separate packages. Your tracking page will show "1 of 2 Piece Shipment" — clicking that section reveals the second tracking number.

Is there free shipping?

At this time, for orders to Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea & Philippines, we offer free shipping on the AxisBoard 1.0, Axisboard 2.0, AxisBoard Pegs, Toe Spreaders, and Toe Bands

For all other countries, shipping is required.

Will my order have additional charges?

It depends on the product and your country.

Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea & Philippines: AxisBoard 1.0 & 2.0, Heel Hero, Axisboard 1.0 Pegs, Toe Bands and Toe Spreaders ship with no duties or taxes. All other products ship from Canada and may incur duties/taxes on delivery.

All other countries: Orders ship from Canada on a Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) basis. Your country's customs may charge duties or taxes on delivery, and these charges are the customer's responsibility.

Where is my order? How do I track it?
How long does shipping take?

International orders typically arrive within 3–7 business days after shipping. International delivery times vary by destination. During major sales or holidays, allow a few extra days.

My package says delivered, but I never received it. What do I do?

Where do you ship to?

We ship worldwide! Please note that aside from a few countries (US, CA, UK), most orders originate from Canada, so shipping time and cost may be higher than local postage.

How does LadderPod shipping work?

The LadderPod ships in two separate packages. Your tracking page will show "1 of 2 Piece Shipment" — clicking that section reveals the second tracking number.

What's the AxisBoard's weight limit?

The AxisBoard handles up to 300 lbs.

What shoe size does the AxisBoard fit?

The AxisBoard fits most adult shoe sizes — from women's size 5 up to men's size 13. Sizes above men's 13 may feel small, but you can try it risk-free with our 60-day return policy.

What's the difference between the AxisBoard and AxisBoard Pro?

The original AxisBoard features solid wood construction with a Velcro-based configuration system (80+ configurations). The AxisBoard Pro is injection-molded polycarbonate, supports up to 400 lbs, is water- and crack-resistant, with a sensory grip surface and a peg-based configuration system with 900+ configurations.

How often should I use the AxisBoard?

For best results, use it 3–5 times per week. Start slow and listen to your body.

What does the AxisBoard actually do?

The AxisBoard helps improve foot strength, balance, and ankle stability by introducing controlled variability into your lower leg movement. That variability wakes up the small stabilizing muscles in your feet and ankles, which supports better mobility and joint control. Over time, this can help improve overall lower leg function, reduce stiffness, and support recovery from injuries like plantar fasciitis or ankle sprains.

Is the AxisBoard safe to use?

Yes. The AxisBoard is designed for progressive, at-your-own-pace training. It’s safe to use with a nearby support like a wall or chair, and all routines in the guide are developed by a licensed physical therapist.

Can I use it on hard floors or carpet?

You can use it on both! Just make sure the surface is flat and stable.

What makes this different from other balance boards or wobble boards?

Most wobble boards focus on general balance, but they don’t train the small stabilizing muscles in your lower legs. The AxisBoard is built for targeted single-leg training, helping you isolate and strengthen the muscles that support your feet and ankles. That means more control and better results — whether you’re recovering from an injury or working on improving your balance.

Can this help with my injury?

Very likely. The AxisBoard is designed to support recovery from a wide range of foot and ankle issues — especially when you're dealing with things like pain, stiffness, or instability. The included guide provides routines tailored to different injuries, helping you build strength, improve mobility, and move with more confidence.

How often should I use it?

3–5 times a week is a good place to start. Even just 5–10 minutes everyday can make a huge difference over time.

How long until I see results?

Many users begin noticing improvements in balance and muscle control within 1–2 weeks. Consistency is key — the more regularly you use it, the more noticeable your results will be.

What does the Heel Hero actually do?

Heel Hero puts your foot in a controlled toes-up position so you can safely load the plantar fascia, Achilles, and ankle through a deeper range. Instead of passive stretching, it lets you build strength in the exact position your tissue needs to heal. It also doubles as a decline platform for knee exercises.

Is the Heel Hero safe to use?

Yes. Heel Hero is designed for controlled, slow movements and safe home rehab. The wide base and non-slip surface keep your foot stable during training. It supports up to 400 lbs. As with any rehab tool, start gradually and work within a pain-free or tolerable range. If recovering from surgery or a major injury, follow your clinician's guidance.

What shoe sizes does the Heel Hero work for?

Heel Hero fits foot sizes women's 5 to men's 13 and works barefoot, in socks, or athletic shoes. The platform supports small and large feet comfortably because the movement happens at the ankle, not the edges of the device.

Can I use it on hard floors or carpet?

Yes. Heel Hero is stable on hardwood, tile, gym flooring, and carpet. The base grips the surface to reduce slipping during slow, controlled exercises.

What makes this different from slant boards?

A slant board tilts the entire foot as one piece. Heel Hero separates the toes and heel, which creates real plantar fascia tension and deeper Achilles loading. This allows strength-based rehab instead of simple stretching.

Can this help with my injury?

Heel Hero supports rehab for common foot, Achilles, ankle, and knee problems such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles pain, stiff ankles, and anterior knee pain. It does not replace medical care, but it gives you a way to safely strengthen the tissues involved. If pain is severe or worsening, consult a healthcare professional.

How often should I use it?

Most people benefit from short daily sessions or 3 to 5 sessions per week. Consistency matters more than intensity. Start with low volume and increase gradually as your tolerance improves.

How long until I see results?

Many people notice reduced stiffness and better movement within a few weeks. Long-term tissue change takes time, usually 4 to 8 weeks of consistent training. Progress depends on injury history, severity, and how regularly you use it.

How often should I use the LadderPod?

Most users benefit from using the LadderPod 3–5 times per week. Start slowly, listen to your body, and increase frequency only as your endurance and tolerance improve.

Should I feel discomfort or pain?

Mild muscle discomfort is normal as your body adapts. Sharp or worsening pain is a sign to stop. Allow extra rest, and when you resume, use a lower height or lighter intensity to rebuild tolerance safely.

What is the maximum weight limit?

The LadderPod is built to safely support users up to 400 lbs (181 kg).

How long will it take to see improvement in strength or mobility?

Most users begin to notice improvements within 2–4 weeks of consistent use, but recovery timelines vary depending on the injury and individual effort. Stay patient and consistent with your program.

Is it safe for people with balance issues?

If you have balance concerns, consult your doctor or physical therapist before use. For added stability, make use of its two support rods, which are designed to help you maintain balance. You can also position the LadderPod near a wall or railing, or have a spotter assist during your sessions.

How stable is it on different surfaces (tile, carpet, gym floor)?

The LadderPod’s non-slip rubber base ensures stability on most flat surfaces. For slick or uneven floors, place it on a yoga mat or other grippy surfaces for added security.

Should I use it with shoes, or can I use it barefoot?

You can use the LadderPod either way, but supportive athletic shoes are recommended during rehab to improve grip and reduce joint strain.

Does it come with a warranty?

Yes. The LadderPod includes a 1-year warranty covering any manufacturing defects.

Is it suitable for both early-stage rehab and advanced strengthening?

Yes. Its adjustable height makes it ideal for both gentle early-stage exercises and more challenging strengthening drills as you progress.

How does the LadderPod’s adjustable height work?

The LadderPod adjusts in 2-inch increments, ranging from 4" to 26". This means you can start low for safety and confidence, then increase gradually as your strength and balance improve.

Can athletes use it for performance training (not just rehab)?

Absolutely. Many athletes use the LadderPod for plyometric work, agility drills, and targeted hip/knee strengthening beyond injury recovery.

Can I combine it with resistance bands or weights?

Yes. Once cleared by your therapist or doctor, you can add resistance bands, ankle weights, or dumbbells to increase the challenge.

Is it covered by insurance or eligible for reimbursement?

Some insurance plans or health spending accounts may cover rehab tools like the LadderPod. Check with your provider to confirm eligibility.

Which muscle scraper should I get?
Echo: Stainless steel, longer profile, anti-fatigue grip
- Eclipse: Stainless steel, hollow easy-grip handle for precise pressure
- Bow: Stainless steel, dual handles for larger muscle groups

See the full comparison and Tool Finder Quiz here.

Why are using a Muscle Scraper here white lines on my stone (Curve)?

Our Curve scrapers are made from bian stone, hand-carved and polished. No two are alike — white lines or small bumps are natural stone characteristics and don't affect performance.

Does this really work? I don't believe it.

Our tools are based on Gua Sha, a technique with 2,000+ years of history now used by chiropractors and physiotherapists worldwide. Clinical data shows a 26% overall decrease in pain and 51% decrease in movement-related pain seven days post-treatment, versus 8% and 10% respectively for heat therapy. Read the science.

Is it normal to get red spots after using the tool?

Yes — this is called Petechiae and is normal. It's a good sign that the area needs work. Clean your tool and skin thoroughly before and after use. Do not continue working an area until it turns purple.

How is this different from a foam roller?

This video gives a quick overview, and this article breaks it down in detail.

I dropped my Curve Muscle Scraper and it broke — can you send a replacement?
How do I know if Sidekick will work for me?

If you're dealing with a chronic injury, muscle pain, or tightness, Sidekick is a great option for you. In fact, a clinical study showed that 94% of injured users feel pain relief, so there's a good chance you will too! If the tool doesn't meet your expectations, we have a 60-day money-back guarantee.

Isn't this just Gua Sha?

Exactly! The techniques we promote with our tools are based on 2000-year-old Chinese practices. We took that technique and built the world's best tools to apply it.

The technique of muscle scraping (also known as Gua Sha or IASTM) is one that is backed by science and peer-reviewed clinical research.

Will it make my injury worse?

Using a muscle scraping tool correctly generally won't worsen an injury. As you are in control of the treatment, you have full control of the pressure. Sidekick's edge and weight is specifically designed to safely treat injuries, unlike cheaper tools and butter knives that can do more harm than good.

Why is Sidekick better than a butter knife?

Effectiveness, safety, and comfort. Sidekick is designed for therapeutic use. Unlike a butter knife, which has a flat, blunt edge that may cause more damage or skin irritation, Sidekick has a dual-beveled edge that targets tissues effectively without damaging your skin or muscles. The tool's weight and specific curvatures also allows for much better control compared to using a butter knife.

Is it painful?

No. Sidekick is designed to feel good on the body and you are totally in control of the pressure. Unlike cheaper alternatives, the edge is not too sharp that it will cause pain. When working through areas that are particularly tight, many describe it as a 'good pain' that feels like it's effectively addressing the problem area.

What kind of benefits can I expect?
Speeding up injury recovery, particularly when in conjunction with strengthening program. In a clinical study with plantar fasciitis sufferers, 94% of users felt less pain after using Sidekick for 3 days.
- Reduced muscle pain
- Increased blood circulation
- Injury prevention
- Enhanced athletic performance
How do I use it?

For detailed instructions, check out our Learn Lab. Sidekick is a beginner-friendly tool, so it's really easy to use without hurting yourself. After applying emollient to your skin, use your Sidekick tool to apply moderate pressure to the targeted area. Use a mix of long strokes and short strokes, in any direction, to massage the muscle effectively. Repeat on all the surrounding muscles.

How is this different from a regular heating pad?

Nova uses Far Infrared (FIR) heat with jade and tourmaline stones for deep and penetrating relief, unlike standard pads that only warm the surface.

How long can I use it at a time?

You can set the timer for 1, 4, 8, or 12 hours, depending on your needs.

Can I wear it while moving around?

Absolutely. The adjustable velcro strap secures it around your waist for hands-free use.

Does it help with chronic pain?

Many users find relief from lower back pain, stiffness, and poor circulation thanks to deep-tissue FIR therapy.

How often should I wear toe spreaders?

For beginners, start by wearing toe spreaders for 10–15 minutes per day to allow your feet to adjust. Gradually increase the duration to 1–2 hours per day over a few weeks, depending on your comfort level. Many people wear them while relaxing, stretching, or during low-impact activities like yoga. If you experience discomfort, reduce the wear time and, if necessary, consult a healthcare professional.

How much discomfort is normal when using toe spreaders?

A mild stretch or slight discomfort is normal as your toes adjust, but sharp pain or significant discomfort should be avoided. If you experience this, reduce the wear time or adjust the placement of the spreaders. The goal is a gentle stretch, not pain. If discomfort persists, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.

How long does it take to see results?

Results vary based on individual foot structure and consistency of use. With regular use, you may notice improved toe alignment, reduced pain, and increased flexibility within a few weeks. Consistency is essential to achieving the best results.

Do I need to use both tools together, or can I start with just one?

This bundle gives you both: pain relief from the Echo, and lasting strength from targeted foot and ankle training with the AxisBoard.

How long before I start seeing results?

Some users feel noticeable pain relief after their first session with the Echo. In a clinical study, most participants reported less pain within just a few days, and many were able to return to their regular activity within a week.

Strength and mobility gains from the AxisBoard typically build over 2–4 weeks with consistent use.

Is this safe to use without a physical therapist?

Yes — the system is designed to be self-guided. We do recommend getting a diagnosis first, but once you know what you're dealing with, the included printed guide walks you through step-by-step routines safely.

Is this bundle still worth it if I’m not in pain right now?

Absolutely. Many people use the Echo to keep muscles healthy and the AxisBoard to improve balance, stability, and strength.

Everyday movement — from walking and standing to long hours at a desk — can create stress and imbalances in your feet and ankles over time.

Regular bodywork and strength-building help protect you, boost performance, and prevent future injuries.

Can’t I just stretch or use a massage gun instead?

Stretching and massage guns can help, but they don’t address the root cause. The Echo targets restricted tissue that limits movement, and the AxisBoard builds the strength and control your foot needs to stay pain-free long term.

Is this beginner-friendly?

Yes! No experience needed. The Echo follows a simple 3-step process. If you need extra help, check out our Learn Lab.

The AxisBoard comes with a printed recovery guide designed by a physical therapist.

You'll know exactly what to do, even if you're just getting started.

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

We’re here to help. Send us a message. We typically respond in 1 business day.

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