Nutrition Support for Injury and Rehabilitation

Course overview

Caring for the injured requires an interdisciplinary approach. A comprehensive understanding of the injury response and nutritional requirements helps support the healing process and improve function throughout rehabilitation. The injury response has a profound impact on nutrition requirements, which include calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The injured state changes fuel utilization and nutritional needs, particularly protein. Therefore, meeting energy needs and preserving lean body mass become a major focus. Losing lean body mass has implications on body composition, functional movement during rehab, and overall health and wellness. This course is part of a three-part series on inflammation, immunity, and injury designed to complement clinical care guidelines for physical and occupational therapists, athletic trainers, dietitians, nurses, and other allied health professionals.