The Truth About Surgical Recovery | Protein, Sleep, Supplements & Healing Faster

Posted on: 23-Jul-2026

In this episode of The Shoulder Blueprint Podcast, orthopedic surgeon Dr. Caleb Davis sits down with physical therapist Dr. Luke Brohm after Luke suffered an Achilles tendon rupture.

Together, they break down the science of surgical recovery, including:

Protein intake and muscle preservation
Sleep deprivation and injury risk
Vitamin D deficiency and healing
Magnesium for pain, sleep, and recovery
Zinc and vitamin C for wound healing
Creatine, collagen, BCAAs, and recovery supplements
Whole foods vs protein powders
Recovery strategies after orthopedic surgery
How nutrition affects surgical outcomes

Luke also shares how reduced sleep, stress, overtraining, and inadequate recovery may have contributed to his Achilles rupture despite being healthy and physically active.

This episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice for anyone recovering from orthopedic surgery, sports injuries, tendon injuries, joint replacement, or trying to optimize healing and performance.

Topics discussed include:

Achilles tendon rupture
Surgical recovery optimization
Protein and muscle recovery
Sarcopenia and aging
Sleep and injury prevention
Vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, vitamin C
Creatine and collagen supplementation
Orthopedic surgery recovery strategies
Tendon healing and inflammation

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