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

NCT ID NCT06233825

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Queen's University

    Kingston, Ontario, K7L 3N6, Canada