Board Certified Orthopedic Hand Surgeon | Hand, Wrist & Upper Extremity Surgery
Dr. Katz is a board-certified orthopedic hand surgeon serving patients throughout Cumming, Buford, and Duluth, GA, specializing in problems of the hand, wrist, and upper extremity. In addition to being board-certified in orthopedics, Dr. Katz holds a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand and is a member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. He treats a wide range of conditions, including hand and wrist pain, arthritis, hand and wrist fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and nerve, tendon, and ligament injuries. Dr. Katz’s goal is to get patients back to the activities they love.
ABOUT DR. JONATHAN KATZ
Dr. Katz grew up in Roanoke, Virginia. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Georgia, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude with honors. He then returned to his home state to complete his medical degree at the Medical College of Virginia (VCU), where he was selected for the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. Dr. Katz completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), followed by a fellowship in hand surgery at the University of Iowa, before joining Academy Orthopedics.
In his free time, Dr. Katz enjoys spending time with his young family, running, biking, and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs.

ACCOLADES & ACHIEVEMENTS
Named Top Hand and Upper Extremity Doctor by The Atlantan Magazine
Dr. Katz was honored as a Top Doctor for three consecutive years by The Atlantan Magazine, part of the Modern Luxury network. This distinction is based on peer nominations, professional accomplishments, and demonstrated excellence in clinical care within the Atlanta medical community.
Named Top Orthopedic Doctor by Castle Connolly
Additionally, Dr. Katz was selected as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, an honor awarded to only 7% of licensed physicians in the United States. Castle Connolly’s physician-led research team conducts a rigorous, merit-based nomination process to identify doctors regarded as among the nation’s most outstanding healthcare providers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are the signs I should see a hand surgeon instead of my primary care doctor?
Persistent numbness or tingling in the fingers, wrist, or hand injury that doesn’t improve with rest, severe hand pain, a finger that locks or catches when you bend it, or pain that limits grip strength are all good reasons to see a hand and wrist specialist like Dr. Katz rather than wait it out.
What is “wide awake” hand surgery, and does Dr. Katz perform it?
Wide awake hand surgery is performed using only local anesthesia (novacaine), so patients are awake and comfortable without the risks or recovery time associated with general anesthesia. Many hand and wrist procedures at Academy Orthopedics, including carpal tunnel release and trigger finger release, can be performed this way.
How long is recovery after carpal tunnel or trigger finger surgery?
Most patients return to light daily activities within a few days and see significant symptom relief within a few weeks. Full recovery and return to more strenuous activity typically take several weeks to a few months, depending on the procedure and the patient’s occupation.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Katz for severe hand and wrist pain?
In most cases, no referral is required to schedule an appointment with Dr. Katz. Patients can request an appointment directly online or by phone.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Patients should bring a photo ID, insurance card, a list of current medications, and any prior imaging or records related to their hand, wrist, or arm condition.
What’s the difference between an orthopedic surgeon and a hand specialist like Dr. Katz?
All hand surgeons are trained orthopedic (or plastic) surgeons who complete additional fellowship training specifically in hand and upper extremity surgery, giving them more focused expertise in treating complex hand, nerve, and wrist conditions.
What insurance does Dr. Katz accept?
Academy Orthopedics accepts a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicaid and Ambetter. Visit our Insurance Information page for full details.











