719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

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4.9
Based on 952 reviews.
Derek Purcell

Orthopedic Surgeon - Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Specialist

Specializing in Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Arthroscopic, Cartilage Restoration & Total Shoulder Replacement
Fax: 719-623-1051
Castle Connolly Top Doc
Derek Purcell

Dr. Derek Purcell is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with advanced specialization in sports medicine, shoulder, and knee surgery. His expertise includes arthroscopic techniques for the knee and shoulder, complex ligament reconstructions, cartilage restoration procedures, and both shoulder and knee joint replacements.

Dr. Purcell graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Alabama and earned his medical degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine. He completed both his orthopedic surgery residency and a fellowship in Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery at the prestigious Barnes-Jewish Hospital/Washington University in St. Louis.

While in fellowship, Dr. Purcell served as an assistant team physician for multiple professional sports teams, including the St. Louis Rams (NFL), St. Louis Blues (NHL), and St. Louis Cardinals (MLB). He has participated in the NFL Combine and worked with the Cardinals’ spring training team in Florida. He is a former member of the NFL Team Physicians Society.

Now practicing in Colorado Springs, Dr. Purcell continues his commitment to athlete care as a Team Physician for Colorado College Athletics. He also supports several area high schools, including Vista Ridge, Colorado Springs Christian School, and Cheyenne Mountain. He is an active member of the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Specialties and Treatments

Why Choose Dr. Derek Purcell

Whether you’re a competitive athlete or simply want to return to an active lifestyle, Dr. Derek Purcell provides expert care to help you recover with confidence. His experience with elite athletes and advanced surgical techniques ensures patients receive the highest level of orthopedic treatment.

Education

  • Fellowship: Sports Medicine & Shoulder Surgery, Washington University, St. Louis, MO
  • Residency: Orthopedic Surgery, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO
  • Medical School: MD: University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA
  • Undergraduate School: BS: Microbiology, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL

Board Certifications

  • American Board of Orthopedic Surgery

Team Physician

  • 2009 – Present: Colorado College
  • 2009 – Present: Vista Ridge High School, Cheyenne Mountain High School, and Colorado Springs Christian School

Memberships & Organizations

  • Fellow, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
  • Candidate Member, American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine
  • El Paso County Medical Society Member
  • Colorado Medical Society Member

Dr. Purcell's Reviews

Kathleen P.
5 days ago
Dr. Purcell is very personable and knowledgeable. They always get me in at my scheduled time. I highly recommend this doctor and office.
Khristina T.
7 days ago
Dr. Purcell was wonderful! He patiently answered all of my questions and left me feeling reassured with a plan. I’m thankful to have found a surgeon that I can trust!
Laura S.
7 days ago
Dr. Purcell gets right to the point. He tells you exactly what is going on, and your options. He lets you know how you can address your issue through different avenues. Having the ability to choose my path for recovery is reassuring and refreshing. So glad he is my doctor.
Nils V.
3 weeks ago
Fantastic doc More interested in my wellbeing than getting to do another procedure Highly recommend
Anamarie A.
3 weeks ago
He explained my upcoming procedure fully and what to expect.
Jay K.
3 weeks ago
I can't say enough about Dr. Purcell. He is the best. So glad he is caring for me and my injury!
mynette M.
4 weeks ago
The best quality in care, I have complete confidence in this team
Makenzie T.
4 weeks ago
Reviewing as patient Sully DeHerrera: Dr.Purcell is absolutely amazing I went in for acl surgery ended up having a torn meniscus as well. Dr. Purcell had me in and out within an hour and a half. Within the check ups these past couple weeks he has given me amazing insight into what needs to be done to stay on my recovery path. If you are referred or need a doctor to go to I absolutely recommend Dr. Purcell. Lastly, the nurses and staff at surgical center of the Rockies are amazing and do everything they can to help you. Thank you Dr. Purcell for everything.
B B.
4 weeks ago
Very efficient office visit. Doctor was great. Pain free for the 1st time in months.
Roy S.
4 weeks ago
Very satisfied with the quality of service from Dr Purcell. He was prompt, very informative and thorough. Will continue to utilize him and CCOE for any future needs.
Beth D.
1 month ago
Dr. Purcell was great in his evaluation of my knee situation, carefully explaining all of the issues I have. He was able to answer all of my questions easily. I have complete confidence in his ability to diagnosis and recommend further treatment. I highly recommend Dr. Purcell for any and all knee problems.
Mark C.
1 month ago
Excellent service and excellent customer care. Outstanding doctor.
Thomas C.
1 month ago
Excellent care and service. Dr. Purcell is a very experienced surgeon and provides exceptional medical care.
Cris S.
1 month ago
The office is always very professional, and more timely than most any other doctor office I’ve ever been to. I really appreciate the attention Dr. Purcell provides. And I could not be more pleased with my recent knee replacement!
G B.
1 month ago
My husband and I would not consider going to anyone else for our orthopedic issues than Dr. Purcell. In our opinion he is the gold standard in orthopedic care. Vastly experienced, professional, perfection.
Tony S.
1 month ago
Dr. Purcell’s hands could feel my knee. He has done this before. He’s not simply reaching for the knife right out of the chute. Good man.
Deb W.
1 month ago
Dr. Purcell did an outstanding job on my knee replacement. I had many medical personnel and previous patients tell me months prior to surgery, that Dr. Purcell is the absolute best surgeon in Colorado for this procedure. All my questions were answered. What he described at consultation vs the outcome of it all, was 100% accurate. No surprises!! Highly recommend!!
mike P.
2 months ago
Dr Purcell is always on time, thorough and answers all questions. His staff is friendly and helpful. Highly recommend his services.
Cynthia (Cindy) N.
2 months ago
A Doctor that cares for the patient end result from the first visit. Dr. Purcell has been wonderful for 2 years and both knees. His concern is for the patient and their best outcome.
Donald T.
2 months ago
Dr. Purcell answer all my questions that I asked of him, explaining the x-rays to me which I could understand. Plus giving me options I could consider for my self. I would use Dr Purcell in the future for any surgery I may have. Thank you Dr. Purcell and your wonderful staff
Angelo L.
2 months ago
Excellent care and service.
Carson Van Cura S.
2 months ago
I was in and out very quickly, and the Dr and staff were very very professional and efficient. My knee replacement went very smoothly. Still in physical therapy, but am very pleased with the outcome so far.
Stirling L.
2 months ago
Dr Purvell fully and clearly explained what would be involved in my kne e replacement . I felt and have complere confidence in him
Tara N.
2 months ago
Dr Purcell is the ultimate professional. Knowledgeable with the ability to translate that to his patients. Highly recommend.
Kelly L.
2 months ago
Excellent care as always.
James U.
2 months ago
As usual, Dr Purcell is professional and precise in his evaluation and recommendations going forward.
Jeff B.
2 months ago
I enjoyed meeting with Dr. Purcell. I found him very informative discussing the condition of my knee followed by his recommendations for long term care and treatment for my knee.
albert A.
2 months ago
I'm very happy with the services I was provided Dr Percell and his staff through my complete knee surgery process
Jason K.
2 months ago
Dr. Purcell is very professional and straightforward with his diagnosis of my knee problems. I appreciate that he explained the MRI results clearly. I went to two other orthopedic surgeons and they failed to give me a proper diagnosis. I would highly recommend him to those who are seeking a professional to help them with their orthopedic issues.
Sherri B.
2 months ago
Very patient and detail oriented. I’m very impressed.
Jimbo Lucas T.
2 months ago
I was please to find out that one of best surgeons around would be performing my surgery! Everything has been great so far!
Kevin C.
2 months ago
Dr. Purcell is fantastic! In and out fast with all my concerns and questions addressed.
F
2 months ago
Very good experience ! Explained everything plainly and showed X-rays and explained them would definitely refer him to family and friends!
Patricia L.
2 months ago
Everyone at this office is friendly and professional. Would highly recommend for orthopedic surgery.
JOHN
2 months ago
Excellent, if your not seeing Dr. Purcell, change. Always great!
Joy B.
2 months ago
It was a great appointment. On time and doctor took time to listen to needs.
Kathryn V.
2 months ago
Good feedback and answers to my questions.
Kat B.
2 months ago
I went to see Dr. Purcell due to knee injury. My husband had a complete knee replacement. So I trusted Dr. Purcell. He is very thorough
Kim A.
2 months ago
Quick to get to a room. Waited 5 Minutes for doctor and he was very informative.
Justin H.
2 months ago
Honest and trustworthy
Bill S.
2 months ago
Great doctors and staff. Very knowledgeable and skilled. This will be my third experience with them, I would not go anywhere else.

Dr. Purcell's Clinic Locations

CO Springs Briargate

2446 Research Pkwy, Ste 200
Colorado Springs
CO
80920

– ANNOUNCEMENT –
Effective 01/01/2026

United Healthcare HMO and HMO-POS plans require an authorized referral from your Primary care Provider (PCP).

We will honor existing appointments through 03/01/2026 without authorization. However, any planned or ongoing treatment may be delayed if authorization is not received (IE: MRI, Surgery, PT/OT).

Please contact your PCP as soon as possible to obtain an authorization if you wish to be seen today or to avoid delays in care.