Dr. Cory Merva is a skilled physical therapist with nearly a decade of experience across a broad range of clinical settings. He earned both his Doctor of Physical Therapy and Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania, where he graduated with honors and participated in research presented at the Pennsylvania Physical Therapy Association’s Annual Conference.
Throughout his career, Cory has worked in acute care hospitals, home health, and outpatient settings, gaining hands-on experience in treating diverse patient populations with orthopedic, neurological, and post-surgical conditions. His years of clinical work have sharpened his ability to create customized treatment plans that combine evidence-based techniques with a strong focus on patient education and functional outcomes.
He holds certifications in dry needling (AAMT Levels 1 & 2), blood flow restriction training, and functional capacity evaluations. A longtime member of the American Physical Therapy Association, Cory remains active in continuing education and stays current with emerging therapies and best practices.
Cory is passionate about helping patients return to the activities they love, and he brings a collaborative, goal-oriented approach to every session.
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.
This place is amazing! The entire staff was super friendly from the moment I walked in the door. Thank you!
So helpful!! They got me in quickly after a bad ER experience. Everyone is so nice and will explain things and set up a game plan.
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!!
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.
My mom recommended Dr. Nielsen as she had a very good experience with this office and I am so glad she did. I have been seeing Dr. Nielsen and Natalie Smith for quite a few years now and have always found them to be very attentive and not rushed. The office and nursing staff (Hi Dakota!) are friendly and helpful. I definitely recommend Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center!!
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.
“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.”
