Recovery after ACL repair involves more than surgery and rehabilitation. Recent research shows that proper nutrition may help your knee heal more effectively by supporting muscle strength and reducing tissue breakdown. Let’s explore what evidence reveals about using nutrition to support ACL repair recovery.
Protein and Strength Recovery
Studies demonstrate that adding protein and carbohydrate supplements immediately after rehabilitation exercises helps patients regain quadriceps muscle mass and strength. Patients who used this approach showed more muscle growth and faster strength restoration compared to those on placebo supplements.1
A broader review across various orthopedic surgeries confirms that protein supplementation helps reduce muscle atrophy and improves functional recovery, including after ACL reconstruction.2
Essential Amino Acids and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Research suggests that combining essential amino acids (EAAs) with omega-3 fatty acids before and after surgery may help reduce muscle loss when exercise is not yet safe. In one pilot study, patients using EAA and omega-3 supplements experienced less decline in muscle mass and showed signs of better functional mobility than those who took a placebo.3 These nutrients may work together to support healing when physical activity is limited.
Smart Calorie Intake Supports Healing
Your body needs enough calories to fuel tissue repair after surgery. Eating meals with balanced carbohydrates and protein helps preserve energy stores and supports muscle-building. Stay hydrated to help move nutrients through your body and support recovery.
Pair Nutrition with Rehabilitation
Your nutritional plan works best when combined with structured rehabilitation. Protein, EAAs, and omega-3s support muscle rebuilding and alignment of rehabilitation efforts. Patients who follow both nutrition and physical therapy strategies tend to regain strength more quickly and more steadily.
Design Your Recovery with Expert Guidance
Every patient heals differently. Factors like age, activity level, and timing of rehab influence the right nutrition strategy. Working with a sports medicine specialist helps tailor your recovery plan to include exercise, recovery nutrition, and long-term joint preservation.
If you are preparing for or recovering from ACL repair, book an appointment with us to integrate evidence-based nutrition into your recovery plan and support your safe, confident return to activity.
AUTHOR: Kai Mithoefer, MD is board-certified in both Orthopedic Surgery and Orthopedic sports medicine specialist. Dr. Mithoefer is an internationally recognized specialist for complex shoulder and knee injuries with over 15 years of experience with the treatment of sports-related injuries. Dr. Mithoefer practices at Boston Bone and Joint Institute and has published more than 100 scientific articles and book chapters, and is a frequent speaker at national and international orthopedic meetings.
Reference:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16917926/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38463662/
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11556091/
