Dr. Rucker Staggers is a fellowship-trained orthopedic sports medicine surgeon who specializes in advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatments for sports-related injuries, joint replacements, fractures, and general orthopedic conditions. He offers the latest advanced techniques in arthroscopic and open surgery of the shoulder, elbow, hip, and knee. Additionally, he offers shoulder replacements as well as muscle and tendon sparing subvastus total knee replacements and anterior total hip replacements which help to decrease postoperative pain and improve recovery after surgery. He joined Orthopedic Physicians Alaska’s Wasilla location in September 2025 after completing his Orthopedic Sports Medicine Fellowship at the Mammoth Orthopedic Institute in Mammoth Lakes, California, where he worked closely with the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team and cared for athletes at all levels.

Dr. Staggers completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the University of North Dakota and his general surgery internship at the Medical University of South Carolina. He earned his medical degree and completed a research fellowship at the University of Alabama School of Medicine, graduating with a letter of commendation for outstanding clinical performance. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences from Auburn University, graduating summa cum laude. He is also a proud Eagle Scout.

With over 20 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Staggers’ research has advanced orthopedic knowledge in areas such as ACL reconstruction outcomes in skiers, joint replacement, fracture care, and complex sports injuries. His philosophy of care centers on delivering precise, individualized treatment using the most advanced techniques available—helping patients recover fully and return to the activities they love.

Outside of work, Dr. Staggers enjoys an active lifestyle that includes mountain biking, hiking, snowboarding, hunting, fishing, and working on his 1995 Jeep Wrangler.