Orthopaedics

David Nelson, M.D.

Director, Hand Surgery Service

Green Brea, CA

David L. Nelson, M.D., is a board-certified orthopedic hand surgeon based in Greenbrae, California, specializing exclusively in hand surgery. He treats a comprehensive range of upper extremity conditions from the fingertips to the mid-forearm, including bones, tendons, muscles, and nerves, as well as select elbow disorders. Common conditions addressed include fractures, tendon injuries, nerve compressions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, and arthritis-related hand problems, as detailed in his pat

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Credentials

Board Certifications

Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS)
Hand Surgery (ABOS)

Education & Training

Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine (MD, 1982)
Residency: (Orthopaedic Surgery, 1989)
Research: (Orthopaedic Research, 1985)

Years in Practice

40+ years

Peer Recognition

Castle Connolly — Top Doctor
2026

Clinical Focus

Subspecialties

Hand & Upper Extremity

Conditions & Treatments

Wrist SurgeryHand FracturesHand & Upper Extremity

Insurance(s) Accepted

90 Degree BenefitsASR Health Benefits

Aetna

Anthem Blue Cross Blue ShieldAspirus Health Plan

Please verify your coverage with the provider — plan participation can change.

Practice Details

Hospital Affiliations

MarinHealth Medical Center

Languages

English

Conditions Dr. Nelson treats

Frequently asked

Does Dr. Nelson accept 90 Degree Benefits insurance?

David Nelson's public profile lists 90 Degree Benefits, ASR Health Benefits, and Aetna plus 24 more health plans as accepted plans. Plan participation can change — confirm directly with the practice before your visit.

Where does Dr. Nelson practice?

David Nelson practices in Green Brea, CA with hospital affiliations including MarinHealth Medical Center.

What does Dr. Nelson specialize in?

David Nelson is a board-certified orthopaedics specialist with focus areas in Hand & Upper Extremity.

How long has Dr. Nelson been practicing?

David Nelson has 44+ years of clinical experience in orthopaedics.

What is Dr. Nelson's medical training?

Public profile training history includes: Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine (MD, 1982); Residency: (Orthopaedic Surgery, 1989); Research: (Orthopaedic Research, 1985).