Blog Articles

OCSM Healthcare: Cervical Spine Dermatomes. 4921 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70001

Neck Pain (Dermatome) Patterns

Dermatomes are specific regions of the skin that are innervated by a single spinal nerve. The cervical dermatomes refer to those areas of the skin that are supplied by the sensory nerves arising from the cervical (neck) region of the spinal cord. Each cerv
Mar 5th, 2024
OCSM Lifestyle Medicine: 4921 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70001. NOLASPORTSMEDICINE.COM

Thanksgiving Gratitude

Thanksgiving can be a time when we all choose to share in the giving and receiving of food that we may not be accustomed to eating every day. Here are a few hints to ensure this time of year is indeed filled with intentions of GRATITUDE as well as LOVE!
Nov 20th, 2023
OCSM Physical Therapy - Annual Wellness visits. 4921 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70001

Benefits of Annual Physical Therapy Assessments

Physical therapists specialize in biomechanical assessments of the body. PTs are training to help people maintain every level of activity, Identifying problems BEFORE injury can make huge differences in long term outcomes.
Nov 7th, 2023
Chadwick Murphy MD - Neck and Back Pain  Interventional Spine Specialist. OCSM Health Clinic at 4921 Airline Drive, Metairie,

Neck and Low Back Spine Specialist

Chadwick Murphy, MD, is a double board-certified interventional spine specialist at Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine in Metairie, Louisiana. Specializing in pain medicine, physical medicine, and rehabilitation, Dr. Murphy understands the importance of
Oct 31st, 2023
Metairie Pulmonary and Lifestyle Medicine Clinic

Ode to a Physician: A Tree, a Car and an Empty Glass Jar

After reading the recent article in the New York Times titled "The Moral Crisis of America's Doctors", I felt the need to encourage those beginning this journey. There is MUCH HOPE in this calling. The HEALING has to begin with self reflection.
Aug 5th, 2023
OCSM Lifestyle Medicine- Andrea Espinoza, MD, FCCP, and the expert team at Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine in Metairie,

OCSM: Lifestyle Medicine

Practicing nutritional mindfulness is one of the most successful ways to promote health and wellness. Whether you need to prepare your body for surgery or simply want to lower your risk of numerous health concerns, Andrea Espinoza, MD, FCCP can help.
Dec 8th, 2022
Rotator Cuff Injuries: OCSM clinic in Metairie, Louisiana 70001.

Rotator Cuff Injuries Q&A

Reaching upward is a requirement for many jobs. If you start to feel persistent pain in your shoulder with these motions, you might have a rotator cuff injury. The OCSM clinic in Metairie, Louisiana, specializes in diagnosis and treatment of Rotator Cuffs.
Nov 25th, 2022
Calcific Tendinitis of the Shoulder. Luis M. Espinoza, M.D. is a Double Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at the

Calcific Tendinitis: A Common Cause of Shoulder Pain

Calcific tendonitis of the shoulder is a common cause of aching pain that is made worse by shoulder activity. The pain often occurs at night and may persist for several months despite the lack of any specific injury or trauma.
Oct 17th, 2022
Suffering from Chronic Cough? Pulmonary medicine physician, Andrea Espinoza, MD, FCCP, at OCSM can help.

Cough Q&A What is Coughing?

Having a cough every once in a while is typically no more than a minor inconvenience. If your cough lasts for weeks without relief, you might have a chronic cough. Lifestyle medicine physician, Andrea Espinoza, MD, FCCP, at OCSM can help.
Sep 28th, 2022
OCSM Sports Medicine

OCSM: Sports Medicine Specialist

If you suffer an injury while playing sports or participating in physical activity, sports medicine rehabilitation can speed up the healing process and lower your risk of future complications.
Sep 19th, 2022
Trigger Finger.  Nicholas Pappas III, MD is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a Certificate of Added Qualifications (

Got Locked Fingers?

While there are a number of causes for fingers getting stuck and not moving appropriately, one of the most common causes we see as orthopedic hand surgeons is a condition known as trigger finger (i.e. inflammation of the flexor tendons).
Sep 3rd, 2022
Thumb CMC arthritis.  Nicholas Pappas III, MD is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a Certificate of Added Qualificati

Got Thumb Pain? It could be CMC arthritis.

While there are a number of causes of thumb pain, one of the most common causes we see as orthopedic hand surgeons is thumb basal joint arthritis. Thumb basal joint arthritis is when the cartilage becomes worn out at the base of the thumb, causing pain.
Aug 18th, 2022
Intact Rotator Cuff.  Luis M. Espinoza, M.D. is a Double Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at the OCSM.  Dr. Espi

Rotator Cuff Tears Part I: Diagnosis and Evaluation

The rotator cuff is comprised of four muscles and tendons that power the shoulder. If the cuff is damaged, there can be pain that severely limits the shoulder’s ability to function. This article describes the symptoms associated with rotator cuff tears.
Aug 12th, 2022
Shoulder Bursitis.Luis M. Espinoza, M.D. is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at the Orthopedic Center for Spor

Shoulder Bursitis: A common cause of shoulder pain

Shoulder bursitis is a painful condition where the bursa (normal lining) of the shoulder becomes inflamed. The symptoms of bursitis include aching in shoulder are that may radiate towards the neck and down to the elbow.
Aug 5th, 2022
Degenerative Meniscal Tear.Luis M. Espinoza, M.D. is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at the Orthopedic Center

Arthroscopic Treatment of Meniscal Tears

The most common cause of knee swelling and pain is a meniscal tear. Arthroscopic surgery is a safe and reliable way to trim the irritating meniscal tear in order to initiate rehabilitation and a return to normal activities.
Aug 5th, 2022
Luis M. Espinoza, M.D. is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine and Re

The Mystery behind the Meniscus

One of the most common causes of knee popping, swelling, and pain is a meniscal tear. Many of us have either experienced or know someone who has undergone treatment for a meniscal tear. So, what’s the big deal? And what exactly is a meniscus?
Aug 5th, 2022
MRI finding of ECU tendon rupture.

ECU Tendon Subluxation: “Snapping Wrist” Syndrome

This type of injury is frequently misdiagnosed in high-trained athletes. These wrist injuries that are misdiagnosed can delay return to play. The addition of an accessory tendon is a rare finding that can explain a snapping wrist without without injury.
Jul 25th, 2022
Hand Surgery

Why would I need hand surgery?

Your hands are incredibly complex structures that perform a variety of daily tasks that also make them vulnerable to injury. The highly skilled team at the OCSM provide prompt diagnoses and state-of-the-art treatments for a variety of hand conditions.
Jul 20th, 2022
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common cause of hand numbness.

Got Numb Hands?

While there are a number of causes for hand numbness including nerve damage from diabetes or a pinched nerve in the neck, one of the most common causes we see as orthopedic hand surgeons is carpal tunnel syndrome.
Jul 13th, 2022

Preop Planning

All surgeons want the best outcomes for their patients. All patients want the best outcomes for themselves. Read more to find out about your role for your best outcomes.
Jul 5th, 2022
Tips for a good night's rest.

Importance of Sleep on the Body

One should never underestimate the importance of sleep for our physical and mental wellbeing. In this article I’ll go over a few tips for people to get better sleep to wake up feeling more rested and alert.
Jun 1st, 2022
Walk With a Doc-June 2022

Men's Health

June brings a focus on Health Awareness aimed at the men in our lives.
May 26th, 2022
Greg Casey, Phd, LMT - Shiatsu Therapy

HOW SHIATSU TAUGHT ME HOW TO WORK THROUGH TENSION

Being a shiatsu therapist has taught me much about people and the art of the healing. Tension is something that I constantly face in my practice and in life. So how do I work through it? This article will explains the benefits of Shiatsu therapy.
Apr 27th, 2022
Plantar Fascia stretches.

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

More than 50% of Americans have some form of heel pain, which can be highly discomforting and problematic. One of the most common causes for heel pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis.
Apr 7th, 2022
Yin-Yang: OCSM Shiatsu Therapy

SHIATSU: A HIDDEN GEM OF MANUAL THERAPY

Have you ever had a knot or a sore spot on your body that felt like a hot poker when pressed? This is most likely a trigger point or acupressure point. Shiatsu, a Japanese form of bodywork/massage, specifically targets these points to release tension.
Mar 8th, 2022
Lung Cancer Screening

Lung Cancer Screening

If you’ve had a heavy smoking habit at any point in your life or if you’re predisposed to lung cancer because of your family history, lung cancer screening can give you the information you need about the health of your lungs.
Feb 3rd, 2022
Arthroscopic view of Lateral Epicondylitis

Arthroscopic Tennis Elbow Release

Lateral epicondylitis (also known as Tennis Elbow Syndrome) is a common cause of pain along the outer elbow. Failed treatment and persistent pain for more than 4-6 months can benefit from surgical release. Arthroscopic surgery is a great option.
Feb 2nd, 2022
Not all Fractures are Created Equally

Fracture Recognition and Treatment Options

Fractures happen to more than 1 million Americans every year. At Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine in Metairie, Louisiana, our team treats many types of injuries and fractures. If you suspect you have a fracture, call our office or book online.
Jan 21st, 2022
Cucumbers offer all kinds of therapeutic health benefits.

Nutritional benefits and Little Known Cucumber Fun Facts

Cucumbers offer all kinds of therapeutic health benefits. Here are thirteen ways that cucumbers can help improve your quality of life. Learn more about our Jumpstart Program and about nutrition in our Lifestyle Medicine clinic at NOLASPORTSMEDICINE.COM
Jan 21st, 2022
OCSM Physical Therapy

What is the best exercise for…?

Physical Therapists carefully assess each individual patient to carefully determine what exercises and treatment options will help them recover.
Jan 20th, 2022
OCSM: Physical Therapy

OCSM: Physical Therapy

If you experience a personal injury or undergo surgery, physical therapy can speed up your recovery process, restoring strength and mobility. The caring team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine in Metairie, offer several types of therapy options.
Jan 17th, 2022

Peroneal tendon tears of the ankle

Behind the bony prominence of the outer ankle, there are 2 tendons: the peroneus brevis and longus. These assist with the eversion and flexion of the foot and are commonly injured. Treatment will depend on the grade of the tear and clinical presentation.
Jan 4th, 2022
Asthma is a common treatable disease.

What is Asthma?

Asthma is a common disease affecting your lungs and breathing. It’s one of the most common chronic conditions in children, but you can have it as an adult too. Once diagnosed, asthma can be treated to minimize the frequency and severity of the attacks.
Jan 3rd, 2022
Metacarpal Fractures of the Hand

Fifth Metacarpal Fracture

Fifth metacarpal fractures or "street fighter's boxer" fractures are traumatic injuries, most commonly acquired during altercations, that result in the fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone.
Dec 27th, 2021
Viscosupplementation for knee arthritis

Viscosupplementation for osteoarthritis

Viscosupplementation is a procedure done in the office where a thick fluid called hyaluronate is injected into the joint space, usually the knee. It is thought that injecting hyaluronate will improve the lubricating properties of the synovial fluid.
Dec 25th, 2021
Normal vs. Arthritis MCP joints

Arthritis of the MCP joint

Arthritis of the metacarpophalangeal joint is a common cause of pain in the fingers and hands among adults with several nonsurgical and surgical treatment options.
Dec 21st, 2021
Mindfulness: Mental Health is Wealth

Mindfulness: Mental Health is Wealth!

Mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises help millions of Americans combat stress and anxiety while promoting an overall sense of well-being.
Dec 17th, 2021
Pectoralis Major Muscle Anatomy

Pectoralis Major Tear

A pectoralis major injury occurs when there is tearing of the muscle due to excessive tension on a contracted muscle or, less commonly, as a result of direct trauma.
Dec 14th, 2021
Physical therapy can help treat a frozen shoulder.

Frozen Shoulder Syndrome

Frozen shoulder (or adhesive capsulitis) is a condition that is characterized by stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Prompt recognition and physical therapy can help restore motion and avoid the need for surgical release.
Dec 10th, 2021
Case courtesy of Andrew Murphy, <a href="https://radiopaedia.org/?lang=us">Radiopaedia.org</a>. From the case <a href="https:

Acromio-clavicular (AC) Joint Separation

AC joint separation or shoulder separation is a painful injury resulting from trauma, directly to the shoulder, that damage the ligaments that keep the shoulder blade (scapula) and collarbone (clavicle) together.
Dec 3rd, 2021
Triceps Tendon Ruptures

Understanding Triceps Ruptures

The triceps muscle is a three part muscle that runs along the back of the humerus to attach to the elbow. The Triceps is principally responsible for extending the elbow joint. Prompt recognition of this injury is important to have the best outcome.
Nov 1st, 2021
Physical Therapy can help Balance

The Importance of Preserving and Protecting Balance

Falls are on of the leading causes of injuries throughout the world. Physical therapy can help assess the potential risk factors and help personalize a treatment plan to address deficits and minimize the risk of serious injury.
Oct 29th, 2021
Dynamic Warm Up is an important part of exercise.

Dynamic Warm Up

Dynamic warm up is important to decrease the risk of injury.
Jun 2nd, 2021
IASTM has become a general term to describe the use of any instrument or tool to mobilize soft tissue.

Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM)

IASTM is a type of soft tissue manipulation (STM) that uses rigid devices to deliver targeted forces to specific tissue. This is one of the many tools Physical Therapists can use to help your recovery.
May 12th, 2021

De Quervain's Tenosynivitis

De Quervain's tenosynovitis also known as De Quervain's tendonitis is painful inflammation of the tendons located on the radial (thumb) side of the wrist and at the base of the thumb.
May 9th, 2021
Posterior Shoulder Dislocations are less common than Anterior Shoulder Dislocations

Posterior Shoulder Dislocations

The anatomy of the shoulder makes it the most mobile joint in the body, allowing the arm to move in many directions. This mobility can lead to instability and dislocations. Posterior dislocations are important injuries to recognize and properly treat.
Apr 13th, 2021
High vs Low Ankle Sprains

Low ankle sprains versus High ankle sprains

We will provide insight about the ankle joint and compare two types of ankle sprains: low ankle sprains and high ankle sprains. Learn about the structures and tissue involved, mechanism of injury, treatment options, and recovery periods.
Apr 1st, 2021
'Grounding' on sand or grass can improve our outlook and health.

Spring into Today!

Make a plan to go out and make use of our new found daylight in the early evenings for a healthy and happier you.
Mar 18th, 2021
The AC joint (Acrocmioclavicular joint) can be very painful.

Shoulder Acromioclavicular (AC) joint osteoarthritis

The AC joint is one of many small plane joints in our bodies that permit sliding/gliding movement between articular surfaces. AC joint arthritis is the second most common shoulder pathology in adults older than 40 years old, after rotator cuff pathology.
Mar 16th, 2021
Avascular Necrosis of the Hip: a painful hip condition.

Understanding avascular necrosis of the hip

Avascular Necrosis of the hip can cause significant pain and stiffness in the hip. Once recognized, proper staging is important to help outline good treatment options.
Mar 12th, 2021
Bucket Handle Meniscal Tear

Bucket Handle meniscus tear

What is Bucket Handle meniscus tear? What are the symptoms and causes? What is the treatment and prognosis?
Mar 9th, 2021
Risks of Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Recognizing Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults: Part 1

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a dangerous condition characterized by snoring, gasping, choking or restless sleeping. If left untreated, it can result in high blood pressure, heart failure, diabetes, depression and concentration/memory problems.
Mar 6th, 2021
Trochanteric Hip Bursitis: A common cause of hip pain

Trochanteric Bursitis

What is Trochanteric Bursitis? What are the symptoms of Trochanteric Bursitis and how is diagnosed? How can I prevent Trochanteric Bursitis?
Feb 19th, 2021
Adhesive Capsulitis: AKA 'Frozen Shoulder Syndrome'

Adhesive Capsulitis: "Frozen Shoulder"

What is Frozen Shoulder? What are the symptoms, causes, risk factor for Frozen Shoulder? Diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Frozen Shoulder?
Feb 10th, 2021
Morton's Neuroma and foot pain

Morton's Neuroma

Morton's Neuroma and the treatments for this painful foot condition.
Feb 7th, 2021
Trigger Finger

What is trigger finger? What are the treatments?

Trigger fingers are common conditions that can affect your ability to grasp objects and comfortably move your hand. Proper recognition and treatment help restore painless motion and function.
Jan 30th, 2021
Shoulder Dislocation

Shoulder Dislocations Part 1: Recognition and Evaluation

Proper recognition and evaluation of a shoulder dislocation is an important part of treatment and the decision making process. The goal of treatment is to re-establish the anatomic structures to provide stability and restore normal function.
Jan 15th, 2021

Assessment of Injured vs. Uninjured Individuals

FMS stands for Functional Movement Screen. This test differs from the SFMA (Selective Functional Movement Assessment) in a few key aspects. Therapists and Trainers use these tools to optimize you recovery and peak performance.
Sep 29th, 2020

Hyaluronan Injections and Knee Osteoarthritis (OA)

Knee pain? You are not alone. Over 20 million Americans suffer from degeneration joint disease or osteoarthritis (OA). The knee joint cartilage undergoes wear and degenerative tears associated with advancing age ...
Mar 26th, 2020

Rotator cuff problems a common cause of shoulder pain

Rotator cuff problems a common cause of shoulder pain Disorders of the rotator cuff represent a very common cause of shoulder pain. The rotator cuff is comprised of four tendons that cover the humeral head or “ball” of the shoulder joint ...
Mar 25th, 2020
Hand Fractures: OCSM Hand Specialist in Metairie, LA 70001

OCSM: Hand Fractures Q&A

A hand fracture occurs when you break one (or several) of the 27 bones in your fingers, thumbs, or wrists. Early treatment can ensure proper treatment and healing. If you suspect a fracture, contact the team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine.
Oct 28th, 2022
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.  Luis M. Espinoza, M.D. is a Double Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at OCSM.  Dr. Espin

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

People who suffer from this Carpal Tunnel often report intermittent numbness or tingling in the portion of the hand which is innervated by the median nerve.
Aug 12th, 2022
Nicholas Pappas III, MD is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in hand surg

Wrist Pain? Hand Pain?? Ask your Doctor....

"WEEKEND HAND OR WRIST INJURY AND NEED FOLLOW UP? Have no fear... Schedule online with OCSM for a guaranteed appointment with a board-certified hand surgeon Monday morning".
Jul 30th, 2022
Achilles Tendon Rupture/Tear

Achilles Tendon Rupture

The Achilles tendon is a strong tendon that enables athletes to push off the foot. Proper recognition of this serious injury is important to allow for prompt treatment.
Mar 2nd, 2021
Cupping Therapy

Cupping Therapy

Cupping Therapy is a highly effective therapeutic technique utilized by many physical therapists in a variety of treatment situations.
Nov 2nd, 2020

Resistance Training for Older Adults

Incorporating resistance training in the older adult population safely and effectively. It could be the difference in living independently as we age.
Sep 4th, 2020