Macro partitioning
Peri-operative essential amino acid (EAA) supplementation significantly reduces muscle atrophy in quadriceps and hamstring muscles following total joint arthroplasty.
If you are having knee or hip replacement surgery, ask your care team about essential amino acid (EAA) or protein supplementation. The evidence suggests this helps preserve muscle mass in your legs during recovery, which is critical for mobility. While it may not instantly boost strength, it prevents the rapid muscle loss common after surgery.
Essential amino acids (EAA) significantly reduced muscle atrophy in quadriceps femoris muscle mass (SMD: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.95) and hamstring muscle mass (SMD: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.52 to 1.55).
Why this rating
Based on a systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 RCTs and case-control studies involving 903 patients, though heterogeneity was high for strength outcomes.
Source
Peri-operative protein or amino acid supplementation for total joint arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Yashar Khani et al. · Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research · 2025
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