Nutritional Supplementation Prior to Surgery and PRP to Optimize Healing and Outcomes
For Orthopedic Surgeons, Physician Assistants, and patients
Optimizing a patient’s nutritional status before orthopedic surgery or regenerative treatments such as PRP can significantly enhance healing, reduce inflammation, and support tissue repair. The following evidence-based supplementation information should be considered in the weeks leading up to intervention:
1. Collagen + Vitamin C
- Timing: Begin at least 2–4 weeks prior and continue post-procedure.
- Dosage:
- Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides: 10–15g daily
- Vitamin C: 500–1000 mg daily
- Purpose: Supports collagen synthesis, tendon and ligament healing, and extracellular matrix formation. Vitamin C enhances collagen cross-linking and absorption.
2. Vitamin D3
- Timing: Check levels pre-treatment if possible; supplement as needed.
- Dosage: 2000–5000 IU/day depending on baseline levels (target: 40–60 ng/mL)
- Purpose: Modulates immune response, enhances bone remodeling, and supports musculoskeletal repair.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)
- Timing: Start 2–4 weeks prior; may continue long-term unless contraindicated.
- Dosage: 1–3 grams/day of combined EPA and DHA
- Purpose: Reduces systemic inflammation, supports joint health, and may enhance the anti-inflammatory effects of PRP.
4. Zinc
- Timing: Begin 2–4 weeks prior; continue for early healing phase.
- Dosage: 15–30 mg/day
- Purpose: Essential for immune function and tissue repair; involved in over 300 enzymatic processes related to healing.
5. Magnesium
- Timing: Start 2–4 weeks before treatment.
- Dosage: 200–400 mg/day (preferably as magnesium glycinate or citrate)
- Purpose: Supports muscle function, reduces cramping, and aids in protein synthesis and energy metabolism.
6. Protein
- Timing: Ensure adequate intake 2–4 weeks prior and post-treatment.
- Dosage: 1.2–2.0 g/kg of body weight per day (depending on activity level and tissue demand)
- Purpose: Provides essential amino acids for tissue regeneration and immune support.
7. Multivitamin (optional but recommended)
- Purpose: Helps address any micronutrient deficiencies that could impair recovery, especially in patients with suboptimal diets.
Important Notes:
- Discontinue NSAIDs at least 5–7 days before PRP to preserve platelet function.
- Screen for contraindications to supplementation (e.g., anticoagulant use with fish oil, renal issues with magnesium).
- Tailor dosing based on patient weight, lab values, and comorbidities.
This supplementation program, when combined with physical therapy and proper medical preparation, can help improve tissue responsiveness to PRP and enhance post-surgical or post-injection healing outcomes.
