What type of doctor is a hand specialist?

The type of doctors who specialize in operating on the hand are orthopedic surgeons. They use both surgical and nonsurgical techniques to treat conditions of the musculature system, notes the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Members of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand have completed an additional year of training, and have also passed a certifying examination, notes the organization. Additionally doctors with the certificate of added qualification in hand surgery have completed fellowship work with a focus on treating the hand and wrist, says Centers for Orthopaedics.

Common conditions of the hand include carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, neuropathies, tumors and congenital problems. Methods of nonsurgical treatment of the hand include medication, splints, therapy and injections, suggests the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.