Matthew Akelman, MD
Practice: University Orthopedics
Specialty: Orthopedics
Office locations: Cranston, Cumberland, Kettle Point
Matthew Akelman, M.D., is a fellowship-trained hand-to-shoulder surgeon whose practice encompasses the entire upper extremity—from fingertip to shoulder. With advanced expertise in minimally invasive arthroscopy, joint replacement, carpal tunnel release, and fracture fixation, Dr. Akelman is dedicated to evidence-based management and shared decision-making, helping patients return safely and swiftly to the activities they value most.
Matthew Akelman, M.D., is a fellowship-trained hand-to-shoulder surgeon whose practice encompasses the entire upper extremity—from fingertip to shoulder. With advanced expertise in minimally invasive arthroscopy, joint replacement, carpal tunnel release, and fracture fixation, Dr. Akelman is dedicated to evidence-based management and shared decision-making, helping patients return safely and swiftly to the activities they value most.
University Orthopedics - Kettle Point
#1
East Providence, RI 02914
University Orthopedics - Cranston, RI
Suite 101
Cranston, RI 02910
University Orthopedics - Cumberland
Suite 302
Cumberland, RI 02864
Matthew Akelman, M.D., is a fellowship-trained hand-to-shoulder surgeon whose practice encompasses the entire upper extremity—from fingertip to shoulder.
With advanced expertise in minimally invasive arthroscopy, joint replacement, carpal tunnel release, and fracture fixation, Dr. Akelman is dedicated to evidence-based management and shared decision-making, helping patients return safely and swiftly to the activities they value most.
A Rhode Island native, Dr. Akelman earned his undergraduate degree at Brown University and completed his orthopedic surgery residency at Wake Forest University, where he was honored with the Frank E. Pollock Award for extraordinary clinical proficiency. He then pursued fellowship training in Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery at Duke University, focusing on complex reconstruction, arthroscopy, and arthroplasty.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Akelman is an active clinician-scientist whose peer-reviewed research on upper extremity disorders has been published and presented at national meetings.
Outside of medicine, he is passionate about live music, sports, and exploring Rhode Island’s coastline with his family. Returning home allows Dr. Akelman to provide care to the community that inspired his career while staying close to family and the ocean he loves.

So easy to talk to!
Dr. Akelman is patient, sincere, and offers you excellent options so you can make an informed decision.
Awesome doctor
He explains everything thoroughly & answers all questions. He is also able to have an alternative when needed.
I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience with Dr. Akelman at University Orthopedics. I evaluate leadership, professional excellence, and client relations for a living. I know exactly what world-class service looks like—and Dr. Akelman is the absolute definition of it. Just as a firm handshake and steady eye contact commands respect in the corporate world, Dr. Akelman greets you with that same elite presence that instantly establishes peer-level competence and leadership. Rating him highly is an easy choice. He is a professionally polished physician and immediately signals that he values efficiency, mutual trust, and a true commitment to both listening and responding to his patients. You will not feel like a number as he exemplifies his knowledge and you will feel like he truly cares. If you need an orthopedic physician, look no further as Dr. Matthew Akelman is superb.
Very personalble
very informative and attentive!
Dr. Akelman is a wonderful listener truly interested in finding root causes for best outcome in his care. I am looking forward to him handling my upcoming surgery.
Good dr, very informative and answered all me questions , thank you
Diagnosed problem and treated immediately..will check back in 2 wks