Matthew Akelman, MD

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.