Joint pain and stiffness can gradually take away the activities you enjoy most, from walking the dog to playing with your grandkids. Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center offers advanced joint replacement surgery to help reduce pain, restore function, and support a more active, comfortable life with care that is tailored to your needs.
What Joint Replacement Surgery Is
Joint replacement surgery, also called arthroplasty, is a procedure where the damaged parts of a joint are removed and replaced with an artificial joint called a prosthesis. Depending on how much of the joint is affected, your surgeon may recommend a total joint replacement, where all parts are replaced, or a partial joint replacement, where only the most worn areas are addressed.
At Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center, Dr David Nielsen and the surgical team perform a variety of joint replacement procedures, including shoulder, elbow, knee, wrist, radial head, and finger joint replacements. Each procedure is planned around your anatomy, lifestyle, and goals so your new joint can better support the movements that matter most to you.
Conditions Joint Replacement Can Help
Joint replacement is typically considered when nonsurgical options like medications, injections, and physical therapy no longer provide enough relief. Many people seek surgery when pain and stiffness begin to interfere with everyday tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping comfortably.
Signs that joint replacement might be appropriate include persistent joint pain, stiffness, swelling, decreased range of motion, limited mobility, and instability, as well as conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, post traumatic arthritis, or certain fractures. If these issues are affecting your quality of life, an evaluation can help determine whether arthroplasty is a good next step.
What To Expect Before And During Surgery
Before surgery, you will meet with Dr Nielsen for a detailed consultation that includes a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and any necessary tests such as X-rays, MRIs, blood work, or an EKG. The team will also review your medications and provide clear pre-surgical instructions so you know how to prepare and what to expect.
On the day of your procedure, the surgical team will welcome you and guide you through the preparation process. Most joint replacements are performed under general anesthesia, and during surgery, the damaged or arthritic portions of the joint are removed and replaced with a durable prosthetic implant selected for your specific joint and anatomy.
Recovery And Rehabilitation
After surgery, you will spend time in a recovery area while you wake up from anesthesia and your vital signs are closely monitored. Many joint replacement procedures at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center are done as same-day outpatient surgeries, meaning you begin your recovery at home soon after the operation with detailed guidance from your care team.
You are usually encouraged to begin gently using your new joint shortly after surgery, and temporary discomfort is common as tissues heal over the first few months. Physical therapy is a key part of the process, and the centers in in-house physical therapists will work with you on exercises that help restore motion, build strength, and support a safe return to everyday activities.
Why Patients Choose Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center
Patients choose Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center for its combination of surgical expertise and personalized, compassionate care. In addition to joint replacement surgery, the practice offers in-house physical therapy and complimentary movement screenings to identify imbalances, prevent injuries, and support long-term mobility and wellness.
Schedule an Appointment
If joint pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility are limiting your life, the team at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in Charlottesville, Virginia, can help you explore whether joint replacement surgery is right for you. Contact the practice to schedule a consultation and take a proactive step toward more comfortable movement and a more active lifestyle.
Dr. David Nielsen, D.O. is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in hand, upper extremity, and shoulder surgery. He trained at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and the University of South Florida. He brings over two decades of surgical experience and a deep commitment to patient-centered care as the founder of Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center.
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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.
Learn MoreWhat Our Patients Say
“I went to Dr. Nielsen for a second opinion on a dislocated hand. My first surgeon recommended surgery without much consideration. A friend suggested Dr. Nielsen, who spent time reviewing my case and concluded that I only needed rehabilitation. He was right! He's an excellent doctor.”
I was impressed with the quality of service and the caring people throughout the visit, from the receptionist to the doctor seen. They truly care and are honest and professional.
The best ortho in the state. Got my son in right away and is a very caring crew. Professional and clean atmosphere. Would recommend to anyone.
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.
Highly recommend Charlottesville Orthopedic Center for PT. They are the best! Very knowledgeable, detailed, patient, caring and they listen. I had shoulder and knee issues. Matt was my physical therapist and I would definitely go back if I ever need more therapy. Thank you so much for all your help.
Very responsive, same day service. Staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and thorough when communicating complex medical information.
Great place. The best group of people you could ask for. Knowledgeable and polite. #1
I was able to get a same day appointment after every other place I called turned me away. In the end, I was glad I got turned away elsewhere because I can’t imagine any other practice being more caring and understanding.
