It is essential for collagen formation, the major protein in tendons and ligaments, and is vital for blood vessels and skin.
It helps strengthen your immune system and supports the health of bones and muscles.
Your body does not store vitamin C, therefore vitamin C is considered an essential vitamin. Deficiency can lead to issues of poor healing and infection.
Some studies have shown that 500 mg of vitamin C twice a day can reduce pain after surgery and have the potential to improve tendon healing.
Supplementation for a month or even a week prior to surgery and continuing for 6 to 12 weeks after is highly recommended.
References:
Fukushima. Yamazaki. Vitamin C requirement in surgical patients. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2010;13:669-76.
Carr. Maggini. Vitamin C and Immune Function. Nutrients. 2017;3:1211.
Martel. Laumonerie. Girard. Dauzere. Mansat. Bonnevialle . Does vitamin C supplementation improve rotator cuff healing? A preliminary study. Eur J Ortho Surg Trauma. 2022;32:63–70.
Michael Howard, M.D.
Shoulder & Upper Extremity
Plano Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center
Plano, TX