Wrist

Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center

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

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Your wrists do a lot of heavy lifting, literally and figuratively. Whether you’re typing at a desk, lifting weights, or simply going about your day, healthy wrists are key to a pain-free lifestyle. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of wrist conditions, using state-of-the-art imaging and a personalized, multidisciplinary approach to get you back to doing what you love without pain or limitations.

Diagnosing Wrist Problems

Accurate diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment. At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, we use in-house, noninvasive tools to get a clear picture of what’s going on with your wrist. Our diagnostic capabilities include:

  • Electrodiagnostic medicine (EMG): to assess nerve function and detect issues like carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Musculoskeletal ultrasound: to visualize tendons, ligaments, and soft tissue injuries in real time.
  • Advanced imaging: including outpatient wrist MRI and CT scans for a detailed look at bone and joint structures.

Comprehensive Wrist Care in Charlottesville

Wrist pain can stem from many causes, from injuries to overuse to age-related wear and tear. Our team is here to help with a tailored care plan for your specific needs. Below are some of the most common wrist conditions we treat:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

A common condition caused by compression of the median nerve, carpal tunnel syndrome often results in numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand. We offer both non-surgical and surgical options to relieve pressure and restore function.

Wrist Fractures

Whether it’s a simple break or a more complex fracture involving the joint, we provide expert care using immobilization, realignment, and, when necessary, surgical fixation to ensure proper healing.

Wrist Arthritis

Arthritis in the wrist can be caused by wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or autoimmune conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis). We offer both conservative treatments and advanced procedures to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.

Tendonitis

Repetitive motions or strain can lead to tendon inflammation in the wrist. Our team helps reduce pain and swelling with rest, splinting, physical therapy, and, when needed, targeted injections.

Ligament Injuries

Tears or sprains of wrist ligaments often result from trauma or sports injuries. We provide timely imaging, bracing, and surgical repair options to prevent long-term instability.

Ganglion Cysts

These fluid-filled lumps are usually harmless but can be painful or restrict motion. We offer aspiration or minimally invasive removal procedures for symptomatic cysts.

De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

This overuse injury causes pain along the thumb side of the wrist. Treatment typically includes rest, anti-inflammatory medication, splints, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.

Kienböck’s Disease

A rare condition where the blood supply to one of the small bones in the wrist is disrupted, leading to bone death. Early diagnosis is critical, and treatment may involve splinting, revascularization, or surgical intervention.

Request an Appointment Today

Ready to get relief? Schedule an appointment at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in Charlottesville, VA,  today and take the first step toward better wrist health.

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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Andrew

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I called for an appointment and had one in 2 days. As soon as I got in I was greeted and only had to wait a minute for the x-ray technician to come get me. Appointment only took 30 minutes and I left with a complete understanding of what was wrong with my wrist.

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Bobby

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We chose Charlottesville Orthopedic for my husband who was having knee issues, they are so advanced in options and explain all options!! Professional Staff !!

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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.