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.

Wonderful Dr. always kind! Staff is always great!!
Dr Akelman was excellent. He was thorough and explained all to me. I really appreciate his patience and expertise. Highly recommend Dr. Akelman and this practice.
Very thorough with his explanation of treatment options.
Excellent explanations and care
THE DOCTOR HIMSELF IS WONDERFUL 10/10. We love Dr Akelman.
Very attentive, kind, and courteous
Great presence and shirtsleeve English
Kind, listened carefully, explained everything very clearly, offered options and alternatives and administered an injection which I've heard could be very painful with only minor discomfort. I would describe it as painful.
The whole staff was cheerful and pleasant. Dr Akelman is professional and I’m confident that he will fix my problem. kudos to everybody!
My mother and I found the doctors to be kind and competent. The support staff and office staff went above and beyond for my elderly mother. My family was very appreciative!