Brad L. Sparks, MD

Dr. Brad Sparks is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, joint replacement, and orthopedic trauma. He is the only doctor in Alaska (and one of only a handful of physicians in the entire country) to be certified in the Jiffy Knee procedure, an approach to total knee replacements that offers patients a faster recovery, less pain and an easier rehab process. Dr. Sparks received special training from the founder of the Jiffy Knee, Dr. Manish Patel.

Dr. Sparks joined Alaska Fracture and Orthopedic Clinic in 2014. After graduating from medical school at the University of Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky, Dr. Sparks went on to complete residency training in orthopedic surgery at the University of Louisville.

He received advanced fellowship training in sports medicine at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, New Mexico. As a fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon, he specializes in arthroscopic shoulder instability, total knee arthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty, total shoulder arthroplasty, reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, and ACL reconstruction.

Dr. Sparks takes a special interest in getting to know his patients individually and providing specialized care to meet each patient’s needs and expectations. He is happiest when he is able to improve his patients’ quality of life through nonoperative or operative musculoskeletal care.

When he’s not seeing patients at Alaska Fracture & Orthopedic Clinic, Dr. Sparks enjoys hunting, camping, hiking, fishing, snow machining, ATV riding, downhill skiing, and photography.

Jiffy Knee: A Game Changer for Total Knee Replacements

Most total knee replacements require an incision along the front of the knee. To access the kneecap, multiple muscles and the quadriceps tendon must be cut and then stitched back together after the procedure. (These are the workhorse muscles for walking and moving up or down stairs.) When you bend your knee during rehab, the freshly repaired muscles and tendon are stretched – leading to great discomfort and a long recovery.

With the Jiffy Knee procedure, Dr. Sparks gains access from the side of the knee. He then uses special instruments and techniques to slide the muscles and tendon away, rather than cutting them. The Jiffy Knee approach offers the following unique benefits:

  • Less post-procedure pain
  • Significantly less swelling and stiffness
  • Less need for narcotics (most patients need just a single Rx)
  • Far less downtime
  • Fast rehab and recovery
  • Decreased risk for complications like blood clots
  • No more post-surgical muscle atrophy due to lack of use
  • Patients are more active early on, leading to better outcomes
  • No sutures or staples to remove
  • No additional costs or upcharges

If you are a candidate for a total knee replacement, you are a candidate for the Jiffy Knee! To learn more, visit www.jiffyknee.com, or call AFOC at one of the phone numbers below.

Interests

  • Sports Medicine
  • Total Joint Replacement
  • Trauma

Medical Degree

  • University of Louisville, Louisville, KY

Internship / Residency

  • Orthopedic Surgery Residency, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY

Fellowship

  • Sports Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

Board Certification

  • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Dr. Sparks is available to see patients at the following locations:

Anchorage Clinic & Physical Therapy

4100 Lake Otis Pkwy
Anchorage, AK 99508
Main Clinic: Suite 220
Physical Therapy: Suite 108

Physical Therapy

Eagle River Clinic & Physical Therapy

17025 Snowmobile Lane
Suite 102
Eagle River, AK 99577

Physical Therapy

Wasilla Clinic

3505 E. Meridian Park Loop
Suite 101
Wasilla, AK 99654

Testimonials for Dr. Sparks

“My shoulder was bone on bone. One could hear the bones rubbing together and the pain was constant. I am now 9 months post surgery and have full use of my shoulder.”

- Miki E.

“Had a partial knee replacement. Walking without a cane after two weeks and now at five weeks I’m walking fairly well. Staff and Doctor are top notch. I liked the fact the X-rays and MRI facilities were all in the same complex. I have already recommended your clinic to others.”

- Sonny S.

“My shoulder replacement went well after a slight delay in the surgery date. Dr. Sparks had a lesson in the unpredictability of bush planes when the weather does not cooperate 🙂  I feel that my questions were answered adequately and office visits were friendly and professional. AFOC, thank you for the years of service for myself and the clients I have sent to you for care.”

- Dolly L.

“Dr. Sparks has become a friend. Turns out we have some of the same interests. Aside from that, he and his staff have taken excellent care of me. We had some hurdles along the way, but Dr. Sparks dealt with each one of them with the care and professionalism that befits his calling. I am grateful and thankful for the care and expertise I have experienced while under his care.”

- Stephen H.

“The shot you gave me on March 29th in my left knee worked very well. I climbed Wolverine Peak twice and backpacked for 8 days in the Grand Canyon on primitive trails with relatively little pain.”

- John

“I healed a lot faster. It’s almost like it was before.”

- Rosalynn B.

“Awesome staff. Dr. Sparks was very helpful in diagnosing my ankle quickly and his staff was extremely helpful and attentive!”

- Harold G.

“I was experiencing pain in my left knee and ankle. After checking me out and looking at the x-rays, Dr. Sparks thought that my left ankle and foot were turning out in an excessive manner. He recommended fusing a couple of areas in my foot. He thoroughly explained the procedure, the healing time, and how this would be the best process for helping my foot from becoming a club foot. The procedure went as planned. I had very little pain. The end result was very good. I am very pleased with the whole process.”

- Judith C.

“Needed a total Knee replacement. Went to AZ and got a second opinion (because everyone says that’s what you need to do) and Dr. Sparks was 100% correct. Felt good about the meeting with Dr. Sparks, so we booked my surgery. Everything went as Dr. Sparks had explained, if not better. Top shelf treatment from start to present. Surgery was Feb. 22. Today is March and healing great thanks to the physical therapy.”

- Larry R.

“Dr. Brad Sparks was professional, and compassionate during my pre-op office visit. I also appreciate his expert knowledge, experience, and care during my knee surgery.”

- David B.

“I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Alaska Fracture & Orthopedic Clinic.”

- Timothy G.

“Dr Brad Sparks is my doctor. He has been the most caring, supportive and best orthopedic doctor I have ever had. He replaced my hip, and I was back up on my feet in three days walking. He also did surgery on my shoulder and its feeling great. He also did surgery on my knee and it was getting better until I had a car accident and was hit by a truck and it left me with a very bad torn ACL. I need knee replacement now and guess who will be doing it, none other than my friend and caring doctor Brad Sparks. Dr. Sparks is so cool. He shows his sincere concern about me as a person and he helps me greatly with my conditions. Dr. Brad Sparks will be my orthopedic doctor as long as I’m alive if I can have it that way. Thanks, Dr. Sparks for putting me back together and keeping me on my feet I’m so grateful for you. Thank you and God bless.”

- Leslie W.

“Dr. Sparks was the doctor on call when I had my accident. I have to say I couldn’t be more grateful for his presence. I was really freaked out by everything that was happening. He was able to explain everything that was going on with my knee in a way I could understand. He was very patient and understanding and always answered my huge list of questions. I would not hesitate recommending Dr. Sparks for anyone who has orthopedic injuries/issues. Hopefully I never need his services again, but if I do, Dr. Sparks will be the doctor I call.”

- Amy C.

“I met Dr. Sparks in the ER following a motorcycle accident that caused several breaks to my left femur and left hand. From the very beginning, Dr. Sparks helped me to understand all the details relating to the fractures and what was being done with surgery and physical therapy. He always took the time to listen and explain, sometimes repeatedly. I always felt he was on my side, and worked tirelessly to save not only my leg, but my life as well, due to complications in my case. I trusted Dr. Sparks immediately, and never felt comfortable until he was the surgeon that scrubbed in and headed to the OR with me. I have complete confidence in his formidable skills and respect him both as a surgeon and person. Dr. Sparks is compassionate, caring, and personable, treating the whole person, not just an orthopedic ‘case.’ I am blessed that he was in the right place when I needed him most, and he headed the team in my full recovery. There are no words to adequately describe my gratitude or my faith in him, so I’ll close with a simple ‘thank you Dr. Sparks,’ and my wholehearted recommendation. You just can’t find anyone better.”

- Bryn H.

“Dr. Sparks explained the problem and treatment options clearly, and answered all of my questions. He made me feel comfortable and relaxed while injecting medication into my knee. His customer service manner was welcoming. I will not hesitate to request him when making follow-up appointments.”

- Margaret F.

“This clinic is the best one I’ve ever been to. Almost no wait time. Everything seemed super-efficient, and I did not feel rushed by the doctor. All staff were genuinely pleasant. I’d recommend your group to anyone seeking medical treatment.”

- Vanessa S.

“I’m a bit late commenting on your service. That’s because 3 weeks after Brad’s excellent work I sailed away from Valdez per usual not to return till mid-November. No email or web access during that period. First test of the repaired knee came 3 days later – my 1st new pk summited for ’16. 4 wk to day surgery I reached a grand summit which I had to kick steps in the snow and ice to reach the ascent. The knee performed painlessly through all and continued strengthening through the season until it’s once again stronger than the other. Meanwhile back where I belong sailing and climbing the waters and mountains of Prince William Sound. Much thanks to Brad and team.”

- Paul M.

“I’m very pleased with the care I have received from the doctor and staff at the clinic.”

- Sharon W.

“Dr. Brad Sparks and the staff at AFOC have been exceptional in every way. Their friendliness, competence, and treatment are outstanding. At 73, I had been suffering for some time from several problems stemming from damage caused by arthritis in my shoulders. At my age, I felt it was something I’d have to put up with, but it was getting difficult to sleep at night or perform simple daily tasks due to the pain. My son recommended I see Dr. Sparks. Dr. Sparks performed arthroscopic surgery on both shoulders, which relieved much of the problem but left me with some discomfort and limitations due to continuing inflammation. After full recovery from the surgery, Dr. Sparks gave me an injection to further calm the inflammation, and it worked fantastically. I experienced immediate relief, and two days later, full assistance from my arthritic shoulders. I now have pain-free movement and cannot thank Dr. Sparks and the staff enough for their expert and sensitive care. Thank you!”

- Everett R.

“Very thorough. Explains the options and the procedure recommended.”

- John J.

“My experience with Dr. Brad Sparks was genuine and very thorough. He took time to address all of my concerns, was professional and provided me a detailed explanation of my diagnosis and prognosis. I would highly recommend him to my family and friends.”

- Brenda K.

“The staff and doctors have a very high degree of compassionate care. Dr. Sparks takes the time to explain treatment or a procedure in terms that are easy to understand. And he listens carefully to me or my wife’s questions or concerns.”

- Rob H.

“Dr. Sparks was terrific. He took his time to explain the problems I was having with my knees, and he gave me options for the right treatment. I was very comfortable on going forward and having him as my doctor to take care of these knees of mine, and they feel lovely. Thank you very much, Dr. Sparks.”

- Maria M.

“Dr. Sparks provided me with the best possible care from start to finish. He and his staff have the unique quality of making his patients feel comfortable, safe and in the most professional care. Dr. Sparks and his team take a personal interest in making sure the best quality of service is provided in a relaxed but expedient, efficient manner. They went out of their way to fit me into their busy schedule within a weeks time of my first appointment, due to the fact that I live approximately 2,000 miles away in Southeast Alaska. Even though Dr. Sparks was having back surgery the following morning, he selflessly took the best of care of me. I could not be happier with the results of my knee replacement surgery. Hopefully, Dr. Sparks will be able to replace my other knee soon.”

- Kristy M.

“Very nice and caring”

- Mary F.

“Very professional, explained everything to my understanding. Dr. Sparks made all my visits comfortable up to my surgery planning and now my recovery. Thank you for your staff and making this a pleasant visit.”

- Leon S.

“Thank you Dr. Sparks for picking me up after I was med evacted to Seattle with broken bones and hip.”

- Larry U.

“Excellent! Dr. Sparks was courteous, professional, and knowledgeable.”

- Nancy T.

“As always, Dr. Sparks was friendly, professional and prompt.”

- Carol S.

“The staff was excellent. Special Kudos to Dr. Sparks’ nurse who answered the phone in a timely fashion. Dr. Sparks and his PA are outstanding in actually listening and conversing with me about concerns. I love the friendliness of the office staff also.”

- Frances E.

“I had excellent after-care from you after coming home from the Seattle Hospital where I had major reconstructive surgery. Thank you all.”

- Larry U.

“Dr. Sparks took the time to shake my hand and introduce himself. He reviewed the x-ray of my knee with me and did a physical exam. We came up with a plan of action. He injected my knee, and I was on my way in no time. He said I needed to come back if the pain did not resolve. Well, the pain finally settled ultimately. Thank you, Dr. Sparks.”

- Vita H.

“Dr. Sparks is very professional, thorough, and engaging.”

- John M.

“Professional and personable all at the same time. Dr. Sparks an excellent doctor!”

- Karen H.

“Everyone was charming and professional. I had a short wait.”

- Joan G.

“I feel confident in the capabilities that Dr. Sparks exhibits. And that makes for a better experience.”

- Jim R.

“Very professional and does listen to your concerns as a patient. Excellent patient care service.”

- Samantha A.

“Calm, patient and sweet! Everyone was great from start to x-ray and checkout.”

- Jennifer M.

“Outstanding!”

- Susan S.

“The whole staff was great.”

- Dolores L.

“He was very informative on what he did to my left knee.”

- Velvet B.

“Excellent.”

- Paul V.

“My experiences with Dr. Sparks have been excellent. He thoroughly goes over my questions and is very committed to resolving my pain. I came in to see him with severe pain in my shoulder, and when I was ready for a total replacement, he did the surgery. The result is unbelievable! Not only is there no more pain, but I can also move my arm freely as if I could play tennis. I am back to gardening and swimming which I can now enjoy again. I have my life back!”

- Josephine D.

“Great. My hip has worked flawlessly with no problems or complications. In June 2017, I went to Japan to work and then in October 2017 to Qatar (working as a contractor for the military). Then in July, I went to Afghanistan. I had to pass several medical screenings to qualify to deploy. No problems. No problems with any physical task although I work in an office most of the time with some excursions here in Afghanistan. Thanks very much. I appreciate being repaired. I would not have been able to do anything I have done since the hip replacement without the new hip.”

- David R.

“I had never been injured like that before and had gone through a stint of depression thinking I would never be the same. Treatment and therapy proved me wrong. Following my doctor’s and therapist’s orders, I was able to return to work sooner than expected. Full strength still took several more months to achieve, but now I have. Thank you AFOC.”

- Robin H.

“Very professional, knowledgeable and excellent bedside manner.”

- Edward L.

“Dr. Sparks is great! Accurately diagnosed my hip problem and provided physical therapy referrals until the problem was fixed.”

- Carolyn S.

“Very professional and friendly staff. I would highly recommend Dr. Sparks to anyone seeking care within this field. Top-notch.”

- Matt D.

“Dr. Sparks is second to none. An incredible doctor and even better hunter. Highly recommended.”

- Adam G.

“Had a full knee replacement, Dr. Sparks did a great job. The incision was clean and straight. X-rays of the replaced knee looks good.”

- Patrick A.

“I’m trusting as I have in the past AFOC with my health issues. I’m going through another tough time with more pain than I can handle. Dr. Sparks has identified what may be wrong and has referred me to a spinal surgeon.”

- Jeffrey L.

“After 5 attempted knee surgeries without success, I went to Dr. Sparks. He did a fantastic procedure replacing my knee. I know that it was a very difficult and technical surgery. He pulled up all the stops, figured everything out, and now I’m truly on the road to recovery. Thank you so much AFOC and Dr. Sparks for the phenomenal service, professionalism and kindness. And please don’t let me forget my dearest Annette in therapy, an asset to AFOC. She didn’t give up on me. We are still working on the knee now, and now we can see light at the end of the tunnel. Surgery is never any fun, but AFOC made this venture so much easier, seem less and much more pleasant. Thank you to the whole staff. Keep up the great work!”

- Steve M.

“Dr. Sparks at Alaska Fracture & Orthopedic Clinic has done a good job in keeping my left knee working – so far with knee replacement. Thank you for your excellent medical care.”

- Harry L.

“The staff was excellent in their care and treatment of me. Dr. Sparks did an excellent job on my total left knee replacement. I would recommend Alaska Fracture & Orthopedic Clinic to all my family and friends.”

- Benzz H.

“Dr. Sparks and his team are great. I had a reverse shoulder replacement surgery in June. Surgery, recovery
and physical therapy have gone better than I expected.”

- Jody M.

“I was a little skeptical at first when meeting Dr. Sparks. He put my mind at ease and was very patient and understanding of my concerns. His bedside manner was professional, understanding, and courteous. My first meeting with Dr. Sparks I left not only feeling welcomed but also like I wasn’t just a number. I felt comfortable with my open rotator cuff surgery on 10/29/18 and was expecting to feel intense pain after that type of procedure. I had some ups and downs with recovery like expected, and Dr. Sparks and staff were able to address my concerns. Dr. Sparks is an artist of orthopedic care and the doctor to go see for all your ortho needs. If another mishap happens, I know Dr. Sparks is the right person to see! I also want to thank the whole staff of AFOC for the smiles and greeting when you walk into the clinic.”

- Diane B.

“Dr. Sparks and his staff accommodated my time schedule and listened to me for all my issues. They’re very professional, and Dr. Sparks does excellent work. It’s really sad I had to move out of state but will check in with them next year.”

- Kathy M.

“I had a total knee replacement done by Dr. Sparks. I feel great. Hardly any pain. Couldn’t be happier!”

- Karen H.

“I highly recommend going to Alaska Fracture & Orthopedic Clinic, and specifically Dr. Sparks if you have any injuries. They are a first-class medical provider. And are very welcoming and professional. I have had several injuries related to working with youth basketball players. From minor sprain and strain to more serious, Achilles, knee and blood clot-related conditions. Each time I have seen Dr. Sparks, I have had almost immediate results. From diagnosis to remedy, I always get back to full strength. Thank you, Dr. Sparks and Alaska Fracture.”

- Jeff D.