When preparing for orthopaedic surgery, most patients focus on the procedure itself. But one of the most important factors in a smooth recovery starts before you ever enter the operating room: nutrition.
Whether you are preparing for knee replacement surgery, hip replacement, spine surgery, or another orthopedic procedure, your nutritional health plays a major role in healing, infection prevention, and overall recovery.
Why Nutrition Before Surgery Is So Important
Your body treats surgery as a controlled injury. After your procedure, it immediately begins repairing tissue, rebuilding muscle, and fighting inflammation. To do that effectively, it needs the right building blocks.
Poor nutrition before surgery has been associated with:
- Slower wound healing
- Increased risk of infection
- Greater muscle loss during recovery
- Longer recovery timelines
Optimizing your nutrition before orthopedic surgery can help support stronger healing and better outcomes.
Protein: Essential for Healing and Muscle Recovery
Protein is one of the most important nutrients before and after surgery.
It helps:
- Repair surgical incisions
- Rebuild muscle tissue
- Support immune function
After joint replacement surgery, patients often experience temporary muscle weakness. Adequate protein intake helps minimize muscle loss and supports a stronger return to activity.
Good sources of protein include:
- Lean meats and poultry
- Fish
- Eggs
- Greek yogurt
- Beans and legumes
- Protein-rich dairy products
For many adults, especially those over 60, protein needs are higher than they realize.
Vitamins and Minerals That Support Bone and Tissue Health
Several key nutrients play an important role in orthopaedic recovery:
Calcium and Vitamin D
These nutrients work together to support bone health, which is especially important for patients undergoing joint replacement or fracture surgery.
Iron
Blood loss during surgery can lower iron levels. Maintaining healthy iron stores before surgery may help reduce post-operative fatigue.
Vitamin C
Supports collagen formation and wound healing.
If you have concerns about deficiencies, your primary care provider may recommend lab testing before surgery.
Blood Sugar Control and Infection Risk
Blood sugar control is critical, particularly for patients with diabetes or prediabetes.
Elevated blood sugar levels are associated with a higher risk of surgical site infections and delayed wound healing. Optimizing blood glucose before orthopaedic surgery is an important part of surgical preparation.
Even patients without diabetes benefit from limiting highly processed, high-sugar foods leading up to surgery.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Excess body weight increases stress on weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees. It can also increase surgical risk.
You do not need dramatic weight loss immediately before surgery. However, gradual, sustainable improvements in nutrition can reduce inflammation, improve strength, and support better surgical outcomes.
If weight management is part of your treatment plan, your orthopaedic specialist can guide you on safe expectations and timing.
Hydration Matters Too
Adequate hydration supports circulation, nutrient delivery, and recovery. In the weeks leading up to surgery, focus on consistent fluid intake unless otherwise directed by your physician.
Preparing for Joint Replacement: Small Changes Make a Big Difference
Preparing for knee replacement or hip replacement surgery involves more than scheduling a date. Strengthening your body through proper nutrition can:
- Improve healing
- Reduce complications
- Support a smoother rehabilitation process
- Help you return to activity more confidently
If you are planning orthopaedic surgery, talk with your care team about any nutritional concerns, recent weight changes, or chronic health conditions. Addressing these factors ahead of time can significantly impact your recovery.
Take the Next Step
If you are considering orthopaedic surgery or preparing for joint replacement, our team at Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin will guide you through every stage of the process, including pre-surgical preparation.
Schedule an appointment today to discuss your treatment options and learn how to prepare for a safe, successful recovery.
