Natalie Smith, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant with a strong foundation in both clinical care and healthcare management. Originally from central Indiana, Natalie attended Wake Forest University, where she was a student-athlete on the collegiate volleyball team. She earned a degree in Health and Exercise Science, along with a Master’s in Management.
Following her undergraduate and graduate studies, Natalie worked in healthcare consulting in Chicago, IL, gaining valuable insights into the broader healthcare system. Her passion for patient care ultimately led her back to school, where she earned her Master of Physician Assistant degree from Jefferson College of Health Sciences in Roanoke, Virginia.
During her clinical training, Natalie completed a rotation with Dr. David Nielsen, which sparked her interest in orthopedics and set the stage for their future collaboration. She began her career in Family Medicine, where she practiced for three years before joining Dr. Nielsen at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center.
Natalie brings a compassionate, team-based approach to patient care and enjoys helping individuals regain mobility and quality of life. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband and children and staying active, especially by continuing to play volleyball.
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.
Contact UsWhat Our Patients Say
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.
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.
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!!
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.
This place is amazing! The entire staff was super friendly from the moment I walked in the door. Thank you!
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.
The whole team is great from the from the front desk to the operating room. They all went above and beyond to make sure I had an excellent surgery and follow up appointments. Thank you guys for a great experience.
“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.”
We chose Charlottesville Orthopedic for my husband who was having knee issues, they are so advanced in options and explain all options!! Professional Staff !!
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.
