Fish oil and protein powder: a new recipe for knee surgery recovery?

NCT ID NCT06233825

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Dr. Chris McGlory, PhD Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study tested whether taking omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) and essential amino acids (protein building blocks) before and after knee surgery could help prevent muscle loss. Thirty adults scheduled for ACL reconstruction took either the supplements or a placebo for 4 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery. The main goal was to see if such a study is feasible, while also measuring muscle mass and strength changes.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) and essential amino acids
What this could lead to: If this approach works, it could point toward a simple nutritional supplement to help people regain muscle strength faster after knee surgery.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study (30 people) focused on feasibility, not proof of effectiveness. The results may not apply to everyone, and the supplements may not provide significant benefit over standard recovery.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

muscular atrophy

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT RECONSTRUCTION MUSCULAR ATROPHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Queen's University

Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada

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