The largest fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgical group in Illinois
Restore pain-free movement & function. Welcome to Hand to Shoulder Associates
The Largest Fellowship Trained Hand and Upper Extremity Surgical Group in Illinois.
Board Certified Specialists in the Surgical & Non-Surgical treatment of Hand, Shoulder, Elbow & Wrist.
Proudly Serving the Chicago Metro Area for over 40 years.
Workers' Compensation
At Hand to Shoulder Associates, we value the significance of early diagnosis in workers' compensation cases. Our proficient orthopedic surgeons swiftly identify and diagnose shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand injuries. With immediate diagnosis, we implement effective treatment strategies for improved outcomes and faster recovery of injured workers.
Learn more about Workers Compensation
Shoulder
At HSA, our team of certified experts boasts extensive experience in delivering all-encompassing care for diagnosing, addressing, and overseeing diverse shoulder conditions. Leveraging our adeptness and tailored methodology, we aim to restore peak shoulder functionality and relieve discomfort, ensuring your well-being and ability to work.
Learn more about Shoulder Procedures
Elbow
Our expertise lies in delivering thorough care for a range of elbow conditions. Be it discomfort, restricted movement, or other symptoms impacting your elbow, count on us to enhance both comfort and functionality, guiding you towards improved well-being.
Learn more about Elbow Procedures
Hand & Wrist
Be it an injury sustained at work or within your home, our focus centers on diagnosing and managing an array of hand and wrist ailments. With a team of certified experts, we bring substantial experience to offer tailored relief, revitalizing hand and wrist function and enhancing the overall quality of life for our patients.
Learn more about Hand & Wrist Procedures
Osteoarthritis
The HSA team is uniquely experienced at addressing osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint ailment impacting upper extremities like the shoulder, elbow, wrist, thumb, and fingers. Our expertise lies in diagnosis, management, and treatment, ensuring patients afflicted by this condition discover respite from discomfort while reclaiming optimal functionality.
Learn more about Osteoarthritis
What do we offer? Our main services
Hand to Shoulders Associates is in the business of keeping you active, no matter what. Our team of fellowship-trained surgeons understands that life comes with a series of ups and downs and that the best way to make the most of it involves keeping your hands and arms in good health. Whether you’re dealing with injury, trauma, or simple age-related changes, we’re here to help. We treat a wide range of concerns by offering a robust series of services and can even help you with precision diagnostics and workers’ compensation evaluations.
Meet Our Surgeons Fellowship-Trained, Board-Certified
The fellowship-trained, board certified surgeons at HSA focus solely on all aspects of the entire upper extremity and are at the top of their respective fields in orthopedic and hand surgery. They provide treatment for all injuries/diseases of the shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand ranging from simple problems to the most complicated conditions.
Michael I.
Vender, MD
With profound expertise in hand and wrist surgery, Dr. Michael I. Vender stands as a preeminent practitioner, active both in Illinois and the broader national arena. As a trailblazing authority, he holds a storied legacy of addressing hand and wrist injuries and conditions, spanning several decades, earning him well-deserved acclaim in the field.
More about Dr. Vender
Scott D.
Sagerman, MD
Devoting his professional journey to cutting-edge surgery for hand, elbow, wrist, and shoulder concerns, Dr. Sagerman tirelessly works to reinstate ease, movement, and capability. His excellence has earned him recognition as a distinguished Top Doctor by Castle Connolly. He has also served as an instructor of Clinical Orthopedic Surgery at Northwestern University Medical School.
More about Dr. Sagerman
Prasant
Atluri MD
At Hand to Shoulder Associates, Dr. Atluri introduces his exceptional prowess in microvascular hand surgery. Rooted in substantial experience and comprehensive medical training, his advanced proficiency addresses an array of hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder ailments. His distinction as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor further underscores his contributions to the field.
More about Dr. Atluri
Sam J.
Biafora, MD
Dr. Sam Biafora specializes in upper extremity surgery, combining surgical acumen with genuine empathy. Pioneering the frontier of cutting-edge advancements, he stays ahead in the field. Since 2018, his unwavering commitment has earned him the distinguished title of a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, specializing exclusively in hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder surgery.
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Michael V.
Birman, MD
Dr. Birman's educational journey showcased brilliance as he achieved academic excellence. Graduating summa cum laude from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, he earned a dual Bachelor of Science degree in biomedical engineering and chemical engineering. Shifting his trajectory, he embraced the realm of orthopedic medicine, solidifying his commitment to healthcare.
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Ajay K.
Balaram, MD
Having fulfilled his orthopedic surgery residency at Loyola University Chicago, Dr. Balaram embarked on a specialized path. His journey led him to conquer the Kaplan Hand and Upper Extremity fellowship at New York University Hospital in Manhattan. His distinction as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor further validates his expertise and dedication to the field.
More about Dr. Balaram
Workers compensation Get back to your active career
Injuring yourself on the job is serious, and our team understands the urgency that can accompany your drive to get better and return to work as soon as possible. The Hand to Shoulder Associates team has extensive experience with workers’ compensation evaluations, and we’ll work closely with you to ensure that you receive the care and compensation you need, so you can get back to work and return your life to normal.
Our locations Eight locations in the Chicago land area
When it comes to medical care, few things beat convenience. This is exactly why Hand to Shoulders Associates is excited to offer patients a total of eight locations conveniently spread throughout the Chicagoland area. No matter where you might find yourself after an injury or accident, our team will be able to offer you the care and attention you deserve.
Alsip
11921 S Cicero Ave
Alsip, IL 60803
Libertyville
1800 Hollister Dr, Suite 121
Libertyville, IL 60048
Bolingbrook
391 S. Bolingbrook Drive
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
6 Corners – Chicago
4211 N Cicero Ave, Suite 200
Chicago, IL 60641
Elmhurst
360 W. Butterfield Road, Suite 150
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Arlington Heights
515 W Algonquin Road
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Surgical Treatment Options
Few things create a lasting sense of peace of mind like the knowledge that you’re under the care of some of the most extensively trained surgeons available. At Hand to Shoulders Associates, our physicians are double board-certified and fellowship-trained, each one offering you the latest techniques and most advanced treatment modalities, so you can rest, recover, and get back to what’s important.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Hand to Shoulder Associates offers an array of non-surgical remedies for hand, elbow, and shoulder injuries. Our holistic approach encompasses targeted therapies, physical rehabilitation, and personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific condition. With a focus on minimizing pain, restoring mobility, and optimizing function, we strive to provide comprehensive and effective alternatives to surgery, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Occupational & Physical Therapy Treatment Options
At HSA, we provide specialized treatments for occupational and physical therapy. Our multifaceted approach includes customized interventions such as physical therapy, joint injections, pain management strategies, and lifestyle adjustments. With a focus on reducing discomfort, enhancing joint function, and improving overall quality of life, our dedicated team collaborates to create tailored plans that address the unique challenges posed by osteoarthritis, ensuring optimal outcomes for our patients.
Sports Injury Treatment Options
Our sports injury treatments at HSA encompass a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our expert team employs advanced techniques, including physical therapy, targeted exercises, bracing, and minimally invasive interventions to expedite healing and restore peak performance. Whether you're an athlete or a recreational enthusiast, our personalized approach aims to alleviate pain, enhance recovery, and optimize your return to sports and activities with confidence.
Arthritis Treatment Options
Arthritis treatments at HSA encompass a comprehensive approach to managing this condition. Our strategies include personalized medication plans, physical therapy, joint injections, and lifestyle modifications to alleviate pain and enhance joint function. Our dedicated team collaborates to create tailored solutions, aiming to slow disease progression and improve your overall quality of life. With a focus on long-term well-being, we strive to empower you with effective tools for managing arthritis and maintaining an active, fulfilling lifestyle.
Evaluation & Diagnostics Independent Medical Evaluation
At HSA, we prioritize your well-being and understanding throughout the medical journey. In response to the request from a patient’s doctor, employer, or claim manager, we have dedicated board-certified orthopedic surgeons ready to perform a thorough and impartial evaluation of medical conditions.
Learn more about IMEsIndependent Medical Evaluation
Evaluation & Diagnostics Testing & Images
Certainty sits at the core of effective medical care, which is why we offer a series of evaluation and diagnostic services. Our advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology will help us get to the bottom of whatever ails you, so we can set you on a course to recovery and ensure that you’re able to receive the care and compensation you deserve.
Learn more about X-RaysTesting & Images
