ATP supplementation helps patients after knee replacement surgery

ATP supplementation helps patients after knee replacement surgery

     With total knee replacement recovery can be a lot more painful and take a lot longer than people are aware of. There is swelling, weakness and pain. A great deal of physical therapy is necessary after knee replacement surgery (which is called total knee arthroplasty [TKA]). However, it is a long, difficult and painful process for the patient. Desirable methods of relieving the patient's pain are worth exploring. Oral supplement of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a potential option.

ATP is what our body uses for all of our energy. When we blink, taste, think and move, or consume energy in any other way, molecules of ATP release one phosphorus molecule and this gives us the energy to function. Recently it has been found that you can actually swallow a high quality ATP supplement and support your power, energy and endurance.

In the present study, researchers investigated whether short-term supplementation with ATP benefits patients undergoing TKA. A total of 244 subjects were randomized to receive 120mg ATP or placebo each day for four weeks. Significant differences in quadriceps strength were noted in the ATP group. Additionally pain scores at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after the surgery was much improved. It follows that oral supplement of ATP could benefit patients recovering from TKA. The study is published in the December 2014 issue of The Journal of Arthroplasty.