Blog

Can a Rotator Cuff Tear Heal on Its Own?

A rotator cuff tear is one of the most common shoulder injuries. Before you head straight to surgery, stop and think for a minute: Is surgery necessary? Or is there another way?

May 1st, 2025

What Is the Best Treatment for My Knee Joint Pain?

Your knee hurts, and you’re tired of the effect it’s having on your life, so you want the best possible treatment for your pain. Keep reading to find out your options.

Apr 1st, 2025

What Can I Expect After ACL Reconstruction Surgery?

As you fall to the ground clutching your knee, you know the next year of your life is going to be different than you envisioned. Keep reading to learn more about the recovery process from ACL surgery.

Mar 7th, 2025

What Is Arthroscopy Surgery?

Do you ever wonder how doctors know which parts of your joints need surgical repair? Arthroscopy is usually the answer. Keep reading to find out how technology helps you heal.

Feb 4th, 2025

Does a Shoulder Impingement Require Surgery?

Thanks to shoulder impingement, you can no longer reach the top shelf, throw a ball, or scratch your back — it’s time for treatment. Is surgery the only solution? Find out here.

Jan 2nd, 2025

What Can I Do to Help My Sports Injury Heal Quicker?

For athletes, injuries are worse than losses. Waiting for your body to heal is more agonizing than the pain. Is there any way to speed up the process? Find out here.

Dec 1st, 2024

Can a Meniscus Injury Heal on Its Own?

With every step, your knee either catches and locks or threatens to give way. The slightest twist triggers a shock of pain. You have a meniscus tear — now what? Are you destined for surgery, or will it resolve with rest? Our expert weighs in.

Nov 1st, 2024

Shoulder Arthroscopy: Our Top Tips for an Optimal Recovery

Are you scheduled to have a shoulder arthroscopy soon? Recovery can be a process — read on to find out our top tips to make it as fast and effective as possible.

Oct 1st, 2024

Sustained a Joint Injury? Why RICE Should Be Your First Step

If you experience a joint injury, your first move should be to implement the RICE protocol. Read on to find out how and why.

Jul 2nd, 2024

Understanding Your Treatment Options for a Torn Rotator Cuff

Think you have a torn rotator cuff? Depending on how severe your tear is, you’ve got options for treatment. Read on to discover what they are and what might work for you.

Jun 19th, 2024

When Should I Consider Arthroscopy for Shoulder Arthritis?

Are you dealing with shoulder arthritis and not sure what step to take next? Read on for a few tips on when to consider arthroscopy!

May 13th, 2024

7 Habits to Keep Your Knees Strong and Healthy as You Age

As you age, your knees tend to show the effects of wear and tear. However, following a few everyday habits can help keep your knees strong and healthy. Read on to find out what those habits are!

Apr 1st, 2024

Planning to Up Your Mileage? Avoid These Common Runners’ Injuries

If you’re about to ramp up your mileage as a runner, you need to be aware of common runners’ injuries and how to prevent them. Here’s an overview of the problems runners run into most.

Mar 1st, 2024

Treating Your Torn Meniscus with Physical Therapy

Have you torn your meniscus? You’ll likely be in for a few weeks of physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. Here’s a look at how the process will work.

Feb 2nd, 2024

How Does a Sports Injury Differ from Other Injuries?

When you’re injured playing the sport you love, you want to return to the field or court as soon as possible, but sports injuries require specialized treatment — do you know what to look for?

Jan 12th, 2024

What Is the Recovery Process After Shoulder Arthroscopy Surgery?

You know you’re having shoulder surgery, but you’re not sure what to expect once the surgery is over. Read on to find out how the recovery process will go!

Dec 1st, 2023

Can an ACL Tear Heal on Its Own?

Wondering if your ACL injury can heal on its own without surgery? Read on to find out the answer from an expert in the field.

Nov 2nd, 2023

5 Recommendations to Recover Fully After ACL Reconstruction

If you’re facing ACL reconstruction, you have a long road to recovery ahead of you. Following these recommendations will help pave the way so your recovery goes smoothly and as quickly as possible.

Oct 2nd, 2023

Do You Have These Telltale Signs of Shoulder Impingement?

If you’re having trouble with your shoulder, check for these telltale signs of shoulder impingement. They’ll help you know whether or not to head to the doctor.

Sep 1st, 2023

7 Reasons You May Need Knee Arthroscopy

If you have knee pain, you may also have knee arthroscopy in your future. Read on to find out seven common reasons why surgery may be necessary.

Aug 2nd, 2023

Does Cartilage Regenerate on Its Own?

You’ve torn, ripped, or damaged your cartilage, or maybe it’s deteriorating due to wear, tear, and age. Will it repair itself and grow back? Read on to find out if it can regenerate and how to treat your injury.

Jul 11th, 2023

Does My Rotator Cuff Tear Require Surgery?

If you’re having shoulder pain, you may wonder if you’ve torn your rotator cuff and if your injury will require surgery. Read on to find out the signs and symptoms — and if surgery will be necessary.

Jun 9th, 2023

I Sprained My Ankle: How Soon Can I Play My Sport Again?

If you’re an athlete and have sprained your ankle, you’re likely worried about one thing: When can you get back to action again? Read on to find out how long you’ll be out and what you need to do to return.

May 15th, 2023

Why We Might Recommend Shoulder Arthroscopy for Ligament Repair

You might have a ligament tear if you have pain, weakness, or a snapping sensation in your shoulder. Take a moment to discover how arthroscopy — a minimally invasive procedure — can diagnose, treat, and/or repair the issue.

Apr 2nd, 2023

When Is ACL Reconstruction Necessary?

ACL injuries and the reconstruction surgeries that repair them are famous for their long healing times. Some ACL injuries, however, may not need reconstruction.

Mar 9th, 2023

6 Common Signs of Shoulder Impingement

Pain in your shoulder? It could result from injury or arthritis, or it could be one of the most common shoulder problems — shoulder Impingement. Here are six telltale symptoms that point to a pinched tendon in your shoulder.

Feb 15th, 2023

5 Reasons to Consider Rotator Cuff Treatment

Rotator cuff pain can be excruciating and keep you from your favorite activities. Treatment may be easier than you think.

Jan 4th, 2023

When to See a Specialist About Your Chronic Knee Pain

Knee pain is common for many older adults. But what separates pain you can live with from pain that deserves to be examined by a specialist?

Dec 6th, 2022

What to Do About Your Sudden Back Strain

Sudden back strains are common among athletes. Though painful, this type of sports injury can typically heal without the need for surgical intervention. Even if you aren’t an athlete, read on to learn more about managing sudden back strains.

Nov 1st, 2022

What to Expect With Shoulder Arthroscopy

Any time your doctor says you need surgery, it’s normal to feel a little worried. However, having information can help ease your mind. In this post, we describe what you should expect when you have shoulder arthroscopy.

Oct 9th, 2022

Can My Rotator Cuff Be Treated with Arthroscopy?

Rotator cuff repair may be easier than you think. With shoulder arthroscopy, you skip an open surgery and get back to your favorite activities in less time.

Sep 21st, 2022

How Are Sports Injuries Treated Differently Than Other Types of Injuries?

Sports injuries are incredibly common, and almost every athlete will suffer from the pain of an injury at some point. But how should you approach treatment when it happens to you?

Aug 9th, 2022

How Long Can a Steroid Injection Last for My Shoulder Impingement?

Steroid injections are an effective way to keep shoulder pain at bay, but how long can you expect the relief to last? Find out more about these shots and how they can help with pain.

Jul 12th, 2022

Understanding the Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

Meniscus tears are common, especially among athletes and the elderly. Learn the signs of a torn meniscus and how this injury can be treated.

Jun 1st, 2022

5 Ways to Treat Your Shoulder Impingement

Are you dealing with shoulder pain that has gradually gotten worse? You may be suffering from shoulder impingement. Learn more about this injury and how we can treat it.

May 1st, 2022

Can My Rotator Cuff Heal on Its Own?

Rotator cuff injuries can be frustrating, especially for people who have an overuse injury. Although waiting is painful, some rotator cuff injuries just need time.

Apr 1st, 2022

4 Benefits of Arthroscopic Surgery for Your ACL Reconstruction

ACL reconstruction doesn’t have to be a dangerous, open surgery. Arthroscopy, which is less invasive, has many health and surgical benefits.

Mar 1st, 2022

When a Torn Meniscus Can't Heal on Its Own

A meniscus injury can be painful. And if it’s severe, it may not be able to repair itself. Learn what you can do to get your meniscus back to 100%.

Feb 1st, 2022

I Have a Sports Injury: What Can I Do to Get Back in the Game?

Don’t let a sports injury douse your love for the game or derail your best source of exercise. If you follow the proper steps, you can return from an injury and continue your favorite sports.

Jan 1st, 2022

Arthroscopy: How It Works and How It Benefits You

Surgery doesn’t have to be a traumatic, painful process that keeps you on the sidelines for weeks or even months. Minimally invasive arthroscopy can yield amazing results with less trauma.

Dec 1st, 2021

Can Anti-Inflammatory Medications Heal My Rotator Cuff Tear?

Rotator Cuff injuries are common, especially for athletes of certain sports and people who regularly lift heavy objects. Here’s how anti-inflammatory medications can play a key role in recovery.

Nov 1st, 2021

Signs of an Achilles Tendon Injury

Achilles tendon tears and ruptures are some of the most common sports injuries. Learn more about how these injuries occur and what to look for when you suspect an injury.

Oct 4th, 2021

Who's Most at Risk for ACL Tears?

ACL tears are one of the more common tissue injuries in the leg, especially for athletes in certain sports. Learn who is most susceptible to ACL injuries.

Sep 1st, 2021

What Every Baseball Player Should Know About Shoulder Injuries

The repetitive throwing and batting motion of baseball make players susceptible to shoulder injuries. Learn more about these common pain points.

Aug 4th, 2021

The Most Common Sports Injuries in Females

While both sexes can excel at sports, when it comes to injuries, men and women are not treated equally. Learn why women get hurt more often and what types of injuries they’re most prone to suffer.

Jul 26th, 2021

How ACL Reconstruction Can Get You Back in the Game

ACL tears and ruptures can be extremely painful. Learn how an ACL reconstruction can get you back on your feet.

Jun 6th, 2021

How to Prevent Knee Injuries While Exercising

Exercising should be a positive experience in your life, but it can be dangerous when done incorrectly. Learn how to protect your knees as you work to improve your health.

May 6th, 2021

What Causes a Swollen Knee?

A swollen knee can cause serious pain and mobility issues. Read on to learn what may be behind your swollen knee and how it can be treated.

Apr 12th, 2021

4 Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder arthroscopy could be the noninvasive solution to your shoulder pain. Find out if it’s right for you.

Mar 9th, 2021

How Does Aging Impact Knee Health?

Your knees probably aren’t as agile as they used to be, but exactly how does age impact your knees, and what should you be prepared for as you get older?

Feb 9th, 2021

Signs of a Torn Meniscus

If you hurt your knee recently, it could be a torn meniscus. Learn what this common knee injury is, how it’s caused, and what symptoms to watch for so you can get the help you need.

Jan 8th, 2021

Shoulder Pain: When to See a Doctor

If you have shoulder pain, you’re definitely not alone. Read on to learn what symptoms to watch for, how you can treat it at home, and when it’s time to see a doctor for this common medical condition.

Dec 1st, 2020

5 Injuries Knee Arthroscopy Can Help

Arthroscopic surgery is a safe and effective way to treat a variety of common knee problems. Read on to discover five knee injuries this type of surgery can help.

Nov 1st, 2020

Tips For Easing Your Recovery After Knee Surgery

Are you planning on having knee arthroscopic surgery soon? Follow these tips for a smooth and speedy recovery so you can get back to your normal activities as soon as possible.

Oct 1st, 2020

7 Knee-Strengthening Exercises Every Active Person Should Know

To stay active for years to come, it’s important to keep your knees healthy and strong. Here are seven knee-strengthening exercises everyone should know.

Sep 1st, 2020

The Difference Between Tendonitis and a Ligament Tear

Do you know the difference between tendonitis and a ligament tear? Both can be painful and interfere with your quality of life. Here’s what you need to know about these conditions.

Aug 4th, 2020

5 Techniques for Protecting Your Rotator Cuff

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles that surround your shoulder joint. They may be small, but they have an important job to do. Learn how to protect your rotator cuff to keep you pain free for years to come.

Jul 8th, 2020

Myths and Facts About the ACL

Explore myths and facts about the ACL in your knee, and decide whether surgery is the right option for you.

Jun 9th, 2020

Here's How Athletes Should Care For Their Muscles

All athletes should care for their muscles to improve performance and reduce the chance of getting sidelined by an injury. Here’s how.

May 6th, 2020

Torn ACL: What Now?

If you have a torn ACL, you’ll need rest, physical therapy, and maybe even surgery. Read more about this common knee injury and how it’s treated, so you’ll know what to expect.

Apr 1st, 2020

Does It Feel Like Something's Floating in Your Knee Joint? It Could Be Articular Cartilage

You’ve probably never heard of the term articular cartilage, but if it feels like there’s something floating in your knee joint you may already know what it feels like. Learn more about this knee condition and how to treat it.

Mar 13th, 2020

Can a Meniscus Tear Heal Itself?

Meniscus injuries of the knee are common, especially in athletes. Read on to learn when a meniscus tear can heal itself or when surgery is needed.

Feb 1st, 2020

Why You Should Never Ignore That Popping Sound in Your Shoulder

A popping noise in your shoulder is not cool or silly, nor should you seek to make it happen repeatedly. There is actually a name for the popping sound your shoulder makes. It is called crepitus and you should never ignore it.

Jan 1st, 2020

What Is Shoulder Impingement?

If you have pain in your shoulder and it’s hard for you to reach overhead or behind your back, you may have a shoulder impingement. Read on to learn more about this condition and how it can be treated.

Dec 1st, 2019

Getting Active Again After an ACL Injury

Are you wondering how long it will take to build up your knee again after you experience an ACL injury? How about how long it will be before you can just start jogging again? We can give you a clear recovery timeline.

Nov 6th, 2019

Why Are Meniscus Tears So Common?

Does it seem like almost everyone you know has experienced a meniscus injury? Learn why this important part of the knee gets torn so frequently and how to treat it so you can get back on your feet — and the field or court.

Oct 18th, 2019

Post Workout Habits To Reduce Your Risk of Injury

If you’ve been exercising for some time, you probably already know the importance of warming up before exercising to avoid injury. But it’s also essential to have a post-workout routine.

Sep 1st, 2019

Your Shoe Choice Could Be a Big Factor in Preventing Knee Injuries

Millions of adults live with knee pain every day. And while knee pain can have many causes, one often-overlooked factor is what you’re wearing on your feet.

Aug 2nd, 2019

Why Every Athlete Should Incorporate Physical Therapy Into Their Wellness Routine

You train and train, but you haven’t seen improvements in ages, and you’ve got this nagging pain in your hip. Find out how physical therapy can help you break past plateaus and become pain-free.

Jul 12th, 2019

Returning to Sports After ACL Reconstruction

So you tore your ACL — ouch. If you’re an athlete or overall active person, you’re probably itching to get back in the game after your ACL surgery. But not so fast: Keep these recovery protocols in mind.

Jun 12th, 2019

How Some Knee Injuries Increase Your Risk for Osteoarthritis

Torn ligaments or damaged cartilage in the knee joint not only cause short-term problems, these injuries can increase your risk for long-term osteoarthritis. Learn how to lower your risk factors for osteoarthritis.

May 15th, 2019

5 Ways You Could Be Worsening Your Knee Pain

You’ve been doing the best you can to manage your knee pain, but what if the things you’re doing are making it worse instead of better? Here are five common mistakes you might be making that could be worsening your pain.

Apr 8th, 2019

ACL Reconstruction: Here's What To Expect on The Road to Recovery

If an ACL reconstruction is in your future, the road to recovery will require time and patience. But the reward of a fully functioning knee is well worth the effort.

Mar 1st, 2019

5 Common Sports Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Playing sports is great fun and great exercise. But playing any type of sport puts you at risk for a sports injury. Find out what you need to know about five common sports injuries and how to prevent them.

Feb 7th, 2019

Feeling Dull Pain Under Your Kneecap? Here’s What It Could Be

Your knees are, arguably, some of your body’s hardest-working joints as they ferry and carry you through life. When dull, nagging pain develops under your kneecap, it can put a serious damper on your ability to keep active. Here’s what it could be.

Jan 18th, 2019

3 Amazing Benefits of Arthroscopy Procedures

When you hear the word “surgery” accompanied by the word “arthroscopic,” there’s reason to greet the news with enthusiasm. And here are three reasons to get you started.

Dec 11th, 2018

Everything You Need to Know about ACL Reconstruction

If you’ve injured your knee and have an ACL tear, you may need surgery. Read on as we share what your ACL is, how it can get injured, and how it can get repaired.

Nov 26th, 2018

Why Surgery May Be Your Best Option

No one wants to undergo surgery, but in some cases it may be the best option to help you heal faster and get your life back. Having a better understanding of when surgery is necessary may ease some of your anxiety.

Oct 16th, 2018

Meniscus Tear- Tips for Athletes To Reduce Your Risk

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage responsible for bearing the weight of your body while stabilizing your knee. Is it any surprise, then, that a meniscus tear is a common injury? Here are some top tips to lower your risk for this knee problem.

Sep 13th, 2018

Symptoms of Shoulder Problems You Shouldn't Ignore

Pain isn’t something you should soldier through. And when it comes to shoulder symptoms, ignoring them may mean you’ll shoulder some hefty medical bills and more pain down the line. Pay attention to your shoulder symptoms now, and pay less later.

Aug 24th, 2018

What To Know About Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries can weaken your arm and lead to chronic pain. Read on to learn what you should know if you experience an injury to the tendons and muscles of this shoulder cap.

Jul 12th, 2018

Gearing Up: Five Pieces of Equipment Every Athlete Should Have

Whether you’re pursuing a sport on an amateur level or you just enjoy getting out and exercising to stay in shape, every athlete should be armed with a few athletic essentials.

Jun 21st, 2018

8 Tips to Speed Shoulder Surgery Recovery

Whether you need shoulder surgery because of an injury or arthritis, you want to heal quickly and efficiently. At Dr. Steven E. Nolan’s office, located in Sugar Land, Texas, we want the same thing.

May 17th, 2018

Meniscus 101: How to Safeguard Your Knees

Imagine you’re playing tennis, and as you pivot you hear a “pop” and feel a twinge of knee pain. A few hours later your knee is swollen and tender. Meniscus tears are among the most common knee injuries, but there are ways to safeguard your knees.

Apr 26th, 2018

Why Rotator Cuff Injuries Are So Common

Every year, millions of Americans suffer a rotator cuff tear, because the complex structure of the shoulder joint makes it vulnerable to injury. Read on to learn how repetitive actions and degeneration contribute to shoulder dysfunction, pain, and injury.

Mar 30th, 2018

8 Tips to Prevent Weekend Warrior Injuries

If life duties keep you occupied and away from the gym during the week, but you try to make up for it all on the weekends, you may be setting yourself up for injury.

Feb 8th, 2018

5 Things You Didn’t Know About ACL Tears and Reconstruction

If you’ve experienced an ACL tear, one of the most common knee injuries in the U.S., it will not heal without surgery. Dr. Steven M. Nolan is an award-winning orthopedic surgeon in Sugar Land, Texas, who’s well-known for his ACL reconstruction skills.

Jan 31st, 2018