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Hand and Arm Care

From sudden injuries and complex wounds to arthritis and nerve pain, our hand and arm specialists provide expert medical treatment in Boston and throughout New England.

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Expert care for the hand, wrist, elbow, and arm

At Mass General Brigham, our orthopedic specialists provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment for the entire upper extremity – the hand, wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder. We repair everything from cuts, crush injuries, and fractures to chronic conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore strength and dexterity, and help you get back to your daily activities safely and comfortably.

Part of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Part of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

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Our approach to hand and arm care

Mass General Brigham orthopedic clinicians provide expert care for conditions affecting the hand, wrist, elbow, and arm, combining precision diagnosis with advanced surgical and non-surgical treatments to restore function and reduce pain.
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Specialized upper extremity expertise
Our specialists treat a wide range of conditions, including nerve disorders, tendon injuries, fractures, and arthritis of the upper extremity.
Precision surgical and nonsurgical care
Care plans may include splinting, therapy, injections, or surgery, based on your condition, symptoms, and goals.
Advanced microsurgical innovation
We offer advanced surgical techniques, including microsurgery and nerve reconstruction, to restore movement and sensation in the hand and arm.
Integrated rehabilitation services
Hand therapy and rehabilitation are closely coordinated to support each patient’s recovery and return to daily activities.
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Our approach

Frequently asked questions

What kind of doctor should I see for hand or arm pain?

Hand and arm conditions are best evaluated by an orthopedic hand specialist. At Mass General Brigham, our team includes surgeons, sports medicine physicians, advanced practice providers and certified hand therapists with advanced training in the bones, joints, tendons, and nerves that give the upper extremity its strength and dexterity.

Your care plan may include a combination of:

  • Non-surgical treatments, such as strengthening exercises, splinting, pain management, and rehabilitative therapy to restore comfort and function
  • Comprehensive care for hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder injuries in athletes of all levels, including trauma, chronic joint pain, and overuse conditions
  • Surgical procedures ranging from proven reconstructive techniques to advanced microsurgery designed to maximize recovery and preserve movement
  • Arthritis and joint replacement surgery to relieve pain, restore use of the hand and arm, and correct deformities

Whether you’re recovering from an injury or managing a long-term condition, our specialists will create a personalized plan to help you heal safely and return to the activities you love.

Do orthopedic doctors treat hand and arm injuries?
Yes. Our orthopedic surgeons and specialists treat everything from sudden injuries and open wounds to chronic conditions like arthritis and nerve pain.
When should I see a doctor for a hand or arm injury?
You should seek care if pain lasts more than a few days, limits your ability to work or sleep, or follows an injury or accident, such as a fall. Symptoms like tingling, numbness, weakness, or swelling should be evaluated right away by an orthopedic specialist to prevent complications.
What is hand therapy?
Hand therapy combines rehabilitation and training to restore movement, strength, and dexterity after injury, surgery, or illness. At Mass General Brigham, our certified hand therapists work closely with your surgeon to guide your recovery.
Do I need a referral to see a hand specialist near me?

In most cases, you do not need a referral to see a Mass General Brigham hand specialist. Many of our locations accept self-scheduled appointments for hand, wrist, and arm injuries or chronic pain. However, some insurance plans may require a referral from your primary care provider. Our scheduling team can help you confirm your coverage and connect you with the right specialist near you.

If you have an injury or hand and arm pain that won’t go away, you can also visit one of our Mass General Brigham Orthopedics Walk-In locations for same-day evaluation and treatment.

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Hand and arm conditions and treatments

Our specialists diagnose and treat a wide range of hand and arm injuries and conditions. Browse a selection of the conditions, treatments, and procedures available across our care program.
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Conditions and treatments

Our orthopedic and sports medicine specialists

Our care team includes physicians, surgeons, physiatrists, plastic surgeons, advanced practice providers, and rehabilitation specialists who work together to support your care from diagnosis and treatment through recovery.
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Specialists

Orthopedic and sports medicine care near you

Our services are available across Boston and New England, including clinic, walk-in, and rehabilitation settings, making it easier to get the care you need.
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Locations

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

    Mass General Brigham provides expert orthopedic and sports medicine care close to home, including total joint replacement. Explore our specialized services.

  • Sports Medicine

    Comprehensive sports medicine care in Boston and New England for athletic and activity-related injuries. Find non-surgical and surgical treatments and rehabilitation.

  • Orthopedic Trauma and Fracture Care

    Get advanced, rapid-response care for traumatic injuries and broken bones from leading orthopedic trauma specialists at Mass General Brigham hospitals in Boston and across New England.

  • Orthopedics Walk-ins

    Experience streamlined orthopedic care at Mass General Brigham. Discover our walk-in options for prompt help with injuries to muscles, bones and joints. Learn more.

  • Musculoskeletal (Orthopedic) Rehabilitation Program

    The Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Program at Spaulding Rehabilitation helps you recover from orthopedic injuries and conditions to return to daily life and the activities you enjoy. Learn more about our care.

  • Pediatric Orthopedic Care

    Mass General Brigham for Children specializes in scoliosis, limb differences, hip dysplasia, and sports injuries.

  • Shoulder Care

    Expert shoulder care in Boston and across New England. Specialists treat rotator cuff injuries, arthritis, and more with advanced treatments like joint replacement. Request an appointment.

  • Regenerative Medicine

    Regenerative Medicine at Mass General Brigham aims to restore or replace tissues and organs damaged due to aging, disease, or injury instead of treating symptoms with medication and procedures. Learn more about regenerative medicine treatments.

  • Occupational Therapy

    Our advanced occupational therapy helps you manage daily activities after an illness or injury. Learn more about Mass General Brigham’s program.

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Services and programs

Orthopedic research

Our research is shaping the future of orthopedic care. We offer access to clinical trials and emerging therapies, including treatments that may not yet be widely available. Eligibility depends on a person’s diagnosis, treatment history, and more. Explore our research and clinical trials or talk with your care team to learn about available options.
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Explore our orthopedics research
https://research.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/institutes-centers/orthopedics-department-research
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Explore articles featuring expert insights on orthopedic care, patient experiences, and tips for managing an orthopedic diagnosis.

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Contact Hand and Arm Care

Contact a hand and arm care location or specialist to learn about your care options. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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International Patient Services

Contact information for international patients

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Contact