Hand, Wrist & Elbow Specialist | Board‑Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
About Dr. Rachel
Dr. J. Nicholas Rachel is a board‑certified pediatric and adult hand and upper extremity surgeon whose practice focuses on the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, and elbow. Raised in Mobile, Dr. Rachel completed his undergraduate degree and medical degree at the University of South Alabama College of Medicine. He then completed orthopaedic residency at the University of Tennessee‑Campbell Clinic Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, followed by advanced fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery at the same institution.
Areas of Expertise
- Management of complex hand, wrist, and elbow disorders
- Surgical and non-surgical treatment options
- Fellowship-trained in advanced upper extremity care
Dr. Rachel is known for his commitment to restoring upper limb function and empowering patients to maintain active lifestyles: “Being able to restore full use of a patient’s upper extremity so that they can lead an active lifestyle is the reason I became a surgeon.”
Community Involvement & Personal Interests
Dr. Rachel is an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He actively partners with nonprofits, including:
- United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile (Camp SMILE)
- Alzheimer’s Association
- Doc Rock fundraising initiative
- Joe Jefferson Players theatre
When not working, he enjoys music, theme parks, a good bourbon, and spending quality time with his family.