I bought the larger size this time, to replace a smaller and original hollow one I had to leave when moving to another state.There is nothing that matches this product for me - but I use it differently, in my massage practice. The softer density allows me to press into a muscle (covered by a sheet of course) and allow the muscle to relax and lengthen. It also helps connective tissue (fascia) to release and glide back into place, and I can feel the direction and tempo of how the layers of tissue want to release. Because it's like a large thumbprint it can gently sink in (I never use it as a roller - instead I press and sometimes twist); it distributes the pressure, so that it causes less pain but really gets the job done. This has saved me from thumb and shoulder injury! The original lasted me at least 2 years. I'm not crazy about the "fins", but understand the supportive construction. I will never be without one of these for myofascial release as long as I practice massage therapy. Definite thumbs up!
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