Neck pain is more than just a nuisance; it can interfere with your sleep, your ability to focus, and even your daily routines. Whether you’re dealing with stiffness, sharp pain, or numbness radiating down your arm, it’s important to get a proper diagnosis and an effective treatment plan. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, our experienced team is here to help you understand what’s causing your discomfort and guide you toward long-term relief.
Diagnosing Neck Problems
Neck conditions can arise from a wide variety of causes, including injuries, poor posture, age-related changes, or underlying spine disorders. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we take a thorough and personalized approach to diagnosing your neck issue.
Your evaluation may include:
- A detailed medical history and physical examination
- Imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
- Nerve studies (EMG) if symptoms involve numbness or weakness
By understanding the root cause of your symptoms, we can develop a targeted treatment plan designed to relieve pain and restore your mobility.
Comprehensive Neck Care in Charlottesville
Our team at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers expert care for a range of neck conditions. Whether your discomfort stems from a recent injury or a chronic issue that’s been building over time, we’ll help you get back to doing what you love with less pain and more confidence.
Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve)
This condition occurs when a nerve in the neck becomes compressed or irritated, often due to a herniated disc or bone spur. It can cause pain, tingling, or weakness that travels down the arm. Treatment often includes physical therapy, medications, and, in some cases, steroid injections or surgery.
Cervical Spondylosis (Arthritis of the Neck)
As we age, the discs and joints in our neck can degenerate, leading to stiffness, chronic pain, and reduced range of motion. Cervical spondylosis is a common age-related condition that can be managed with conservative care such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or interventional procedures.
Herniated Cervical Disc
A herniated disc in the neck occurs when the soft inner material of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer. This can irritate nearby nerves and lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, or arms. We offer non-surgical options depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Whiplash and Neck Strain
Whiplash is a soft tissue injury commonly caused by car accidents or sudden impacts. It often results in neck stiffness, headaches, and muscle pain. Early intervention with physical therapy and pain management can help speed up recovery and reduce long-term complications.
Cervical Spinal Stenosis
This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, which can place pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. It may lead to neck pain, coordination issues, or problems with balance. Treatment may include medications, physical therapy, or surgery in more advanced cases.
Muscle Spasms and Tension
Tight, overworked neck muscles can cause aching, spasms, and limited motion. This is often due to stress, poor ergonomics, or overuse. Our team provides personalized care, including manual therapy, posture training, and therapeutic exercises.
Request an Appointment
Ready to find relief from neck pain? Contact Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center today to schedule your consultation and get the expert care you deserve. We are proud to serve the Charlottesville and Central Virginia community.
Our Providers
The providers at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are highly skilled and experienced in their respective specialties.
Patient Resources
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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.
Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
We can’t recommend Dr. Nielsen and his team enough. They represent the best in medical care and kindness to others. They are truly excellent in providing healthcare services. With him, you will find a health partner, a supportive friend on your health journey, and continuous support in your pursuit of well-being.
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.
The entire staff was very pleasant and knowledgeable. Dr. Nielsen was very thorough in his findings and explained everything. At the end of the appointment, Dr. Nielsen wanted to make sure that I had no questions. Very happy that I chose Charlottesville Orthopedic Center.
