Robert L. Zondervan, DO, PhD

Biography

Dr. Robert Zondervan is a fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. He provides comprehensive care for fractures, tendon and ligament injuries, nerve compression syndromes, arthritis, sports injuries, and work-related conditions. His goal is to restore function, relieve pain, and help patients return to the activities that matter most to them.

Originally from Claremont, California, Dr. Zondervan has spent most of his adult life in New England and is proud to call the region home. He earned his undergraduate degree from Colby College in Maine before completing graduate studies in Boston. He then earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) through Michigan State University’s physician-scientist training program. After completing his orthopaedic surgery residency at Michigan State University, where he served as Chief Resident, he completed a fellowship in hand surgery at the University of Connecticut.

Dr. Zondervan was drawn to hand surgery because of the profound impact it can have on a person’s quality of life. He enjoys helping patients regain the ability to work, care for their families, and return to the hobbies and activities they enjoy.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Zondervan has a strong background in research, innovation, and medical education. He received a prestigious National Institutes of Health (NIH) fellowship for his research in fracture healing and musculoskeletal biology. His work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and presented at national and international scientific meetings. He continues to teach orthopaedic surgery residents and hand surgery fellows through the University of Connecticut. He also founded a medical device company based on his patented invention designed to improve operating room safety.

Dr. Zondervan believes that the best treatment plans combine the latest medical evidence with each patient’s individual goals and priorities. His approach emphasizes patient education, shared decision-making, and personalized care to help every patient achieve the best possible outcome.

Outside of work, Dr. Zondervan enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, rowing, gardening, cooking, snowboarding, and exploring Connecticut’s trails and outdoor spaces.