Review perspective on advanced nutrachemicals and anterior cruciate ligament rehabilitation

Abstract

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are prevalent among athletes, necessitating surgical intervention followed by comprehensive rehabilitation. Recently, the integration of nutraceuticals – bioactive compounds from food sources – into rehabilitation protocols has shown promise in enhancing recovery outcomes. This review explores the potential benefits of various nutraceuticals, including omega-3 fatty acids, collagen supplements, vitamin D, glucosamine and chondroitin, curcumin, and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), in ACL rehabilitation. These nutraceuticals offer anti-inflammatory properties, support tissue repair, and improve joint and muscle health, which are critical during the rehabilitation process. Despite encouraging preclinical findings, there is a need for robust clinical trials to confirm their efficacy and establish optimal dosages and formulations. Personalized nutrition plans and interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers are essential for optimizing patient care. This perspective underscores the potential of advanced nutraceuticals to revolutionize ACL rehabilitation, paving the way for faster and more effective recovery pathways.