Serious knee injury

[ebongo91]

Hey guys,

Two weeks ago I experienced a serious knee injury. Technically, it was a posterior dislocation of the tibia. To get an idea of the damage done, we are probably looking at multiple ligament tears, maybe menisci, and tendon injuries as well. An MRI still needs to be done. They did some vascular work and put on an external fixator, which is still on right now. The fixator does not allow me to bend my knee or put weight a on my left leg. As such, I am pretty much bed ridden.

Im going to see my Ortho doc on Wednesday. At that point, they will make the decision to either leave the fixator on for another week or two, or move me to a brace. The surgeons are targeting eight weeks from trauma to do surgery.

Anyway, my question is if any of you have had a similar experience, and if so if you have any advice. I welcome all suggestions. One of the things going through my head is the fact that my left leg muscles have not been used for two weeks. Should I take BCAAs or creatine to assist in the recovery or muscle retention?

Thanks

[OT2000]

I would just keep protein and fat intake at a good level. This will help retain muscle and keep an optimal hormonal output.

[ebongo91]

What do you reckon are good numbers? I weigh 210lbs, but keep in mind I am extremely sedentary at the moment. Probably not burning much more than my metabolic quotient.

[OT2000]

Eat at maintenance for now or even a slight surplus. This will aid in healing. You may gain a little weight but you will heal better. I would still shoot for a min of 1g protein per lb.

[ebongo91]

Thanks. Any supplements you think I should be in besides the multi? The doctors only have me on oxycodone and aspirin.

[AMeyer9]

No supplement is going to make much of a difference really. Protein is what you're after, but expect to lose strength. When something is immobile for a long time muscle is going to decrease no matter what

[OT2000]

I would avoid supps for now to be honest. A multi is fine ( may be unnecessary)but focus on resting and eating quality food.

[Farley1324]

I would also be sure to stay relatively well hydrated, even if taking a piss is a royal PITA.

[Deadliftin]

I would avoid supps for now to be honest. A multi is fine ( may be unnecessary)but focus on resting and eating quality food.

This. 1000%. I shattered my patella in 2009 and after surgery it was all about rest, keeping protein high and following doctor and PT orders.

Good luck man, I've been there

[ebongo91]

Thanks guys

[FormulaLT1poweR]

I would avoid supps for now to be honest. A multi is fine ( may be unnecessary)but focus on resting and eating quality food.

Absolutely this.

Possibly run this question by the Ortho doctor on Wednesday and see if he has any recommendations, etc.