“My goal is to work with patients to find the underlying cause of their pain and help find a solution so they can return to the activities that they enjoy."
Dr. Nikhil Shelke is an orthopedic and neurological spine surgeon who helps patients experiencing neck and back pain along with pain radiating to their arms or legs.
Dr. Shelke is fellowship-trained with a comprehensive combination of Orthopaedic and Neurological Surgery of the Spine.
Along with back and neck pain, patients may have issues with their balance while walking and trouble with using their hands, both of which may be related to their spine. “Back pain that radiates to the leg and arms can be quite debilitating," said Dr. Shelke. “It keeps people from experiencing the joys and wonders that life has to offer."
Finding the source of patients' injury or condition is key to Dr. Shelke's practice. From there, his goal is to partner with his patients and their family to create a collaborative treatment plan they can work towards together, which may include minimally invasive surgical options.
Strong communication and trust with his patients drives Dr. Shelke. The foundation of this relationship is important because Dr. Shelke will remain with the patient on their health journey for several years to decades to help get back to life pain free.
Dr. Shelke earned his medical degree from Loyola University Chicago - Stritch School of Medicine in Maywood, Illinois. He completed his residency at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and his fellowship at Duke University Health System in Durham, North Carolina.
“I believe that my life experiences have shaped my philosophies and who I am as a person today," he said. He has lived, worked and learned in five countries across three continents. Dr. Shelke also served as combat medic in US Army 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant after a seven-year career.
While not at work, Dr. Shelke enjoys spending time with his family, carpentry and making wooden furniture. He and his wife have three sons and look forward to including their children as they continue to travel the world.