Knee

Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center

We reliably deliver innovative, personalized care tailored to your individual needs.

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Whether you’re walking, running, kneeling, or simply getting up from a chair, your knees are key players in almost every movement. But over time, they can begin to show signs of wear and tear. From sports injuries to chronic arthritis, knee conditions can make even the simplest tasks painful. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, our experienced team specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of knee problems using the latest non-surgical and surgical techniques to help you get back on your feet comfortably.

Diagnosing Knee Problems

Knee pain can stem from various sources: ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or the joint itself. Our team at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center uses a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging, and advanced in-office diagnostics like ultrasound or arthroscopy to accurately determine the source of your discomfort. These tools often help patients avoid expensive MRI testing and guide us toward the most effective treatment plan.

Comprehensive Knee Care in Charlottesville

We understand how important it is to maintain your mobility and quality of life. That’s why we take a personalized, comprehensive approach to knee care. Dr. Nielsen often begins with conservative treatments like physical therapy, steroid injections, and regenerative medicine options such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or stem cell therapy. When surgery becomes necessary, we offer minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures and advanced joint replacement options.

Here are some of the most common knee conditions we treat:

Knee Arthritis

Arthritis in the knee occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joint wears down over time. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain. We offer a range of solutions, from activity modification and injections to joint replacement for more advanced cases.

Meniscus Tears

This common sports injury happens when the cartilage that cushions the knee joint is torn. Depending on the severity, treatment may include rest and physical therapy or arthroscopic surgery to repair or remove the damaged tissue.

ACL Injuries

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a key stabilizer in the knee. When torn, often during sports involving sudden stops or changes in direction, it can lead to instability. Our team provides both non-surgical rehab and surgical reconstruction options based on your lifestyle and goals.

Patellar Tendinitis

Also known as “jumper’s knee,” this condition affects the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone. We treat it with rest, bracing, physical therapy, and in some cases, PRP or other regenerative treatments to promote healing.

Bursitis

Inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) in the knee can cause pain and swelling. Bursitis often responds well to non-invasive treatments such as activity modification, ice, and steroid injections.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)

ITBS is a common overuse injury, especially among runners, that causes pain on the outside of the knee. We use a combination of physical therapy, stretching techniques, and sometimes injection therapy to reduce inflammation and improve biomechanics.

Cartilage Injuries

Damage to the cartilage in the knee can lead to joint pain and dysfunction. We offer advanced diagnostic techniques to assess the damage and treat it with procedures ranging from regenerative medicine to cartilage restoration or joint replacement.

Knee Fractures

Injuries like patellar or distal femur fractures often occur from falls or trauma and may require surgical fixation. Our team provides expert fracture care tailored to your needs, helping you recover with the best outcomes possible.

Request an Appointment Today

If knee pain is interfering with your daily life, don’t wait to get help. Contact Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in Charlottesville, VA, today to schedule a consultation with a member of our experienced team and explore your treatment options.

Knee Conditions FAQs

What are the most common knee conditions you treat?

We commonly treat knee osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, patellar tracking disorders, tendonitis, bursitis, and cartilage damage. Whether your knee pain is from wear-and-tear or an injury, we offer expert care tailored to your needs.

How do I know if my knee pain is serious enough to see a specialist?

If your knee pain is persistent, worsening, interfering with daily activities, or associated with swelling, instability, or limited range of motion, it’s time to see an orthopedic specialist for evaluation and treatment.

What non-surgical treatments are available for knee pain?

We offer a variety of non-surgical options including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, PRP therapy, and activity modification. We strive to treat conditions without surgery whenever it is possible and appropriate to do so. The majority of our patients recover without surgery.

When is knee surgery necessary?

Surgery may be recommended when conservative treatments no longer provide relief, or if there’s a significant structural issue such as a torn ligament, advanced arthritis, or severe cartilage damage. We strive to exhaust non-surgical options first whenever possible.

What is the difference between a sprain, strain, and tear in the knee?

A sprain refers to an injury to a ligament, a strain affects muscles or tendons, and a tear usually describes a more severe or complete injury to these structures. Accurate diagnosis is key to proper treatment.

How is arthritis in the knee diagnosed and managed?

We diagnose knee arthritis using a combination of physical exams, imaging (like X-rays), and a review of symptoms. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes and physical therapy to injections or joint replacement in advanced cases.

Can knee pain be caused by problems elsewhere in the body?

Yes, pain in the hip, lower back, or foot can alter movement patterns and lead to secondary knee pain. A comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether your knee is the root cause or a symptom of a broader issue.

What should I expect during my first appointment for knee pain?

During your visit, we’ll discuss your symptoms and medical history, perform a physical exam, and may order imaging such as X-rays or MRIs. From there, we’ll build a personalized treatment plan based on your diagnosis and goals.

How can I prevent future knee injuries

Preventing knee injuries involves regular strength training, maintaining flexibility, proper footwear, and avoiding overuse. We also recommend addressing any biomechanical issues and modifying high-risk activities when needed.

What is the recovery time for common knee procedures like arthroscopy or replacement?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure and is best discussed at your appointment if surgery is being considered. Early ambulation is stressed with most procedures including walking the same day of your surgery. As with most surgeries, weaning back to other more strenuous activities can take weeks to months depending on the patient, surgery, and anticipated goals.

Our Providers

The providers at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are highly skilled and experienced in their respective specialties.

Dr. David Nielsen, D.O.

Orthopedic Surgeon

Natalie Smith, PA-C

Physician’s Assistant

Dr. Matt Connor, DPT

Physical Therapist

Dr. Cory Merva, DPT

Physical Therapist

Patient Resources

Explore our Patient Resource center for helpful information about our expert team, comprehensive services, informative blog, and how to easily connect with us.

Complimentary Movement Screening

Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers complimentary movement screenings to assess your movement, identify imbalances, and help prevent injuries. Whether you’re active, recovering, or want to move better, our expert phsycial therapists provide personalized recommendations for your long-term mobility and wellness.

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What Our Patients Say

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Mike

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Dr. Nielsen and his team are great! I’m relatively new to the Charlottesville area and have been very frustrated by the long wait times for medical appointments and then the brevity of those appointments once they finally arrive. Dr. Nielsen and his team are the opposite. They go above and beyond spending more than ample time with you, clearly explaining their diagnosis and answering any questions you may have. I highly recommend them.




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Mary

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I cannot say enough great things about Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center! I fell and broke my wrist, called my PC and they suggested them. Natalie was awesome! The first broken bone I have ever had and I was quite nervous. The techs were great with X-rays and fitting me with a cast. After a few months of appointments I am on the road to recovery!! The ladies at the front desk are always friendly and make me feel welcome too. It is nice to know of such a great practice here in Charlottesville. Kudos!!

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Joe

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Very responsive, same day service. Staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and thorough when communicating complex medical information.