Dr. K. Michael Nord, MD
Fellowship-Trained Hand & Upper Extremity Surgeon at Sports Orthopedics & Spine in Jackson, TN, Dr. Nord provides focused, evidence-based care for conditions of the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. Patients appreciate his calm, thoughtful manner and his commitment to finding the least invasive approach that still fully addresses their problem.
About Dr. Nord
Dr. K. Michael Nord is a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. After completing his orthopedic residency, he pursued advanced fellowship training devoted specifically to hand and upper extremity surgery, giving him focused expertise that goes beyond the experience of many general orthopedic surgeons. His work has been recognized by the United States Congress for his contributions to patient care and the field of orthopedics.
In the exam room, Dr. Nord’s first priority is to understand where each patient is starting from — their symptoms, daily demands, and goals. He is known for carefully working through non-surgical options such as splinting, activity modification, therapy, and injections before ever recommending an operation. When surgery is necessary, he approaches it as a precise tool to restore function and relieve pain, not simply to correct an X-ray or MRI.
Patients often comment on how thoroughly Dr. Nord listens and how clearly he explains their options. He tailors every treatment plan to the individual, taking into account their work, hobbies, and family responsibilities. Whether a patient is a manual laborer, musician, athlete, or simply wants to be able to pick up a grandchild without pain, he focuses on what matters most to that person and builds a plan around those goals.
Conditions Treated & Services
Dr. Nord cares for a full range of hand and upper extremity problems, from common nerve compression conditions to complex fractures and tendon injuries.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Trigger finger
- Dupuytren’s contracture
- Wrist fractures & dislocations
- Hand & finger fractures
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve at the elbow)
- Ganglion cysts
- Thumb arthritis (basal joint)
- De Quervain’s tenosynovitis
- Tendon and nerve injuries of the hand, wrist, and elbow
- Elbow arthritis
Spotlight: Ultrasound-Guided Carpal Tunnel Release
Ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release is a minimally invasive technique that allows Dr. Nord to relieve pressure on the median nerve through a very small incision. Using real-time ultrasound imaging, he can precisely visualize the transverse carpal ligament and surrounding structures, then safely release the ligament without the need for a traditional open incision or an endoscopic procedure performed in a hospital or surgery center.
For many patients, this approach offers several important advantages: a smaller incision, less disruption of normal tissue, and a quicker return to daily activities compared with standard open surgery. The ability to see the nerve, tendons, and ligament in real time helps enhance precision and may reduce the risk of injury to nearby structures. Patients often experience less post-operative discomfort and are able to resume light use of the hand sooner.
Another benefit is cost. Because ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release can be performed safely in the office rather than in a hospital or outpatient surgery center, there is no separate facility fee, and the overall cost of care can be significantly lower. For Dr. Nord, this procedure reflects a broader commitment: using advanced, well-studied technology to help patients get better faster, with fewer disruptions to their work, family life, and daily routines.
Dr. Nord’s Approach to Care
Every patient brings a unique story, set of symptoms, and goals to the visit. Dr. Nord does not use a one-size-fits-all playbook; instead, he takes time to understand what each person hopes to get back to doing and then walks through the full range of non-surgical and surgical options. He explains these choices in clear, straightforward language so patients can make informed decisions they feel comfortable with.
When surgery is the right answer, Dr. Nord focuses on meticulous technique and planning to minimize tissue trauma and shorten recovery where possible. Just as importantly, he keeps the whole person in view — medical history, lifestyle, work demands, and personal priorities — so that treatment addresses more than just a diagnosis on a chart.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing pain, numbness, weakness, or stiffness in your hand, wrist, forearm, or elbow, you do not have to simply live with it. Same-week appointments with Dr. Nord are often available at Sports Orthopedics & Spine in Jackson, TN. To schedule a visit or ask whether your condition is something he treats, please call (731) 422-5000 or use the appointment request link below.
Sports Orthopedics and Spine 