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.
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.

Appointment could have been handled via the phone
Dr. Akelman certainly seems to know his business. He did not give me great news but he did give me good information.
Dr. Akelman was right on time, explained my situation clearly and with choices.
Dr Akelman listens and explains things thoroughly and is always pleasant.
Very nice personality was a pleasure to see him
Very helpful and personable!!
Great doctor explained everything well. Knowledgable and very professional and kind!
Knows his stuff! Listens and cures!
Dr Akelman was very thorough in examining my injury, explained everything and asked a lot of questions. I felt very happy with his diagnosis and look forward to visiting him again if I have a need.
Excelente