Nutrition and Supplements After Shoulder Surgery: What Helps, What Hurts

By Eric J. Sanders, MD – Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon at Texas Orthopaedic Associates

When it comes to recovering from shoulder surgery—whether a rotator cuff repair, labral repair, or shoulder replacement—nutrition often plays an overlooked but critical role. As a shoulder surgeon, I frequently get asked: What should I eat after surgery to heal faster? The answer lies in giving your body the optimal building blocks to repair soft tissue, reduce inflammation, and regain strength.

In this post, I’ll break down key nutritional strategies, recommended supplements, and habits to avoid after shoulder surgery, backed by peer-reviewed research.

Why Nutrition Matters in Soft Tissue Healing

Soft tissue healing, especially in procedures like rotator cuff repair, is biologically demanding. The body enters a phase of inflammation, followed by tissue regeneration and remodeling. Each stage requires specific nutrients to support:

• Collagen synthesis

• Cellular repair

• Tendon-to-bone integration

• Muscle recovery and prevention of atrophy

Optimizing your nutrition post-operatively may improve outcomes, reduce complications, and speed up your return to activity.

Protein: The Foundation of Recovery

✅ Recommendation: 1.2–2.0 g/kg body weight daily

Protein is essential after shoulder surgery. It supports muscle preservation during immobilization and enhances collagen production during soft tissue healing.

A 2022 review published in Nutrients (PMID: 35286282) found that adequate protein intake in the perioperative period is associated with faster wound healing and reduced complication rates. Patients with insufficient protein intake, particularly older adults, may experience delayed recovery.

Best sources of protein post-surgery:

• Lean poultry or beef

• Fish and seafood (rich in omega-3s)

• Eggs

• Greek yogurt and cottage cheese

• Plant-based options: tofu, lentils, quinoa

Collagen and Gelatin Supplements

Tendon and ligament healing relies heavily on collagen—the main structural protein in connective tissues.

✅ Collagen with Vitamin C: Promising Support for Tendon Healing

A review in Sports Medicine (PMC8399682) highlighted collagen supplementation—particularly when paired with vitamin C—as beneficial for tendon remodeling and strength. One study showed improved collagen synthesis with 15g of gelatin combined with vitamin C taken 30–60 minutes before activity or physical therapy.

Suggested post-op supplement routine:

• Hydrolyzed collagen peptides: 10–15g daily

• Add 500mg of vitamin C to enhance bioavailability

• Consider taking 30–60 minutes before passive or active rehab

Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs)

Branched-chain amino acids—leucine, isoleucine, and valine—play a significant role in muscle protein synthesis. During the early stages of recovery, when your shoulder is immobilized, BCAAs can help reduce muscle wasting.

✅ Ideal for maintaining strength during sling use

Although the direct impact of BCAAs on tendon healing is still under study, their role in supporting muscle retention during periods of inactivity is well-supported in literature. A 2023 review in Frontiers in Nutrition (PMC11713956) emphasized the anti-catabolic effect of leucine-rich amino acid supplementation in orthopedic recovery.

Suggested intake:

• 5–10g BCAA powder with at least 2–3g leucine

• Best taken with meals or immediately after therapy sessions

Micronutrients That Matter

What to Avoid After Shoulder Surgery

❌ Nicotine: A Direct Threat to Soft Tissue Healing

Nicotine is one of the most harmful substances for post-surgical recovery. Studies consistently show it impairs blood flow, reduces fibroblast function, and delays tendon-to-bone healing. Smoking or vaping with nicotine has been linked to higher rates of rotator cuff re-tears and wound complications.

❌ Alcohol: Interferes with Recovery Pathways

Alcohol can:

• Suppress protein synthesis

• Promote inflammation

• Impair immune response

• Interfere with pain medications

Even moderate alcohol consumption may delay healing, especially in the critical first 4–6 weeks post-op.

My recommendation: Avoid alcohol and nicotine completely for at least 6 weeks following surgery.

Final Thoughts from a Shoulder Surgeon

Nutrition is more than just calories—it’s therapy. As a fellowship-trained shoulder surgeon, I’ve seen firsthand how recovery differs between patients who support their body with smart nutrition and those who don’t.

If you’ve recently undergone shoulder surgery or are preparing for one, I encourage you to:

• Prioritize high-quality protein

• Consider collagen and BCAA supplements

• Avoid nicotine and alcohol entirely

• Stay consistent with rehab and dietary support

When you combine advanced surgical techniques with patient-driven recovery, the results can be life-changing.

Dr. Eric J. Sanders is a shoulder and elbow specialist at Texas Orthopaedic Associates, serving patients in Dallas and Plano. His philosophy centers around trust, education, and compassionate care. Learn more about recovery options and request a consultation here.