Derek Purcell, MD

Derek Purcell

Orthopedic Surgeon - Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Specialist

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4.9
Based on 965 reviews.
Specializing in Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Arthroscopic, Cartilage Restoration & Total Shoulder Replacement
Fax: 719-623-1051
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

Matthew Albrecht, PA-C

Physician Assistant

As a certified physician assistant, Matt works alongside Dr. Derek Purcell in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic and sports medicine conditions. He assists in the operating room with upper extremity and knee surgery, including both arthroscopy and joint replacement procedures. Matt received his PA certification after graduating with a Masters in Health Science from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania. Prior to joining the CCOE team, Matt worked at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD with the shoulder, trauma, and sports medicine services.

Dr. Purcell's Reviews

Kim
8 hours ago
Dr. Purcell always takes his time, listens, and advocates for his patience. I truly appreciate his diligence.
John B.
24 hours ago
Dr. Purcell, was on time for my appointment, Dr. Purcell also took the time to review past medical conditions……. I felt he was interested in the problem with my shoulder and gave me the confidence that we were going to address the problem 😀
Kelly L.
1 day ago
Excellent care as always.
James U.
1 day ago
As usual, Dr Purcell is professional and precise in his evaluation and recommendations going forward.
Jeff B.
2 days 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.
3 days ago
I'm very happy with the services I was provided Dr Percell and his staff through my complete knee surgery process
Mimi B.
3 days ago
Great Doctors with accuracy, dependability and proficiency in their respectful fields. I will definitely continue to refer individuals with all the positive attributes I personally experienced.
randal W.
4 days ago
Very happy with my knee replacement, I would definitely recommend dr Purcell for this surgery
Jason K.
6 days 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.
Rick S.
1 week ago
From 1st visit to total knee replacement I felt in good hands. Entire staff always professional and informed.
Sherri B.
1 week ago
Very patient and detail oriented. I’m very impressed.
Jimbo Lucas T.
1 week ago
I was please to find out that one of best surgeons around would be performing my surgery! Everything has been great so far!
BJ M.
1 week ago
A very talented and understanding surgeon..
Lyn E.
1 week ago
Dr. Purcell is a magical and the BEST surgeon around! Incredibly good experience and I am way ahead of the process in recovery and rehab! THANK YOU!
Kevin C.
1 week ago
Dr. Purcell is fantastic! In and out fast with all my concerns and questions addressed.
Georgeann S.
1 week ago
I saw Dr. Purcell about having a total knee replacement. He explained the procedure in great but completely understandable detail. I feel confident that it can be done successfully and have it already booked!
F
2 weeks 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 weeks ago
Everyone at this office is friendly and professional. Would highly recommend for orthopedic surgery.
JOHN
2 weeks ago
Excellent, if your not seeing Dr. Purcell, change. Always great!
Joy B.
2 weeks ago
It was a great appointment. On time and doctor took time to listen to needs.
Kathryn V.
2 weeks ago
Good feedback and answers to my questions.
Pamela B.
2 weeks ago
I had great service. Everyone was very gentle and courteous
Kat B.
2 weeks 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.
3 weeks ago
Quick to get to a room. Waited 5 Minutes for doctor and he was very informative.
Justin H.
3 weeks ago
Honest and trustworthy
Bill S.
3 weeks ago
Great doctors and staff. Very knowledgeable and skilled. This will be my third experience with them, I would not go anywhere else.
Carolyn H.
3 weeks ago
I am in the beginning process of getting a knee replacement. Dr Purcell was very thorough in explaining the procedure and what I should expect. Marcus was also very helpful and answered any additional questions. I look forward to a positive surgical experience. The surgery experience was exceptional - Dr Purcell's process is geared to patient safety and comfort. My recovery has been exceptional. OCC is a wonderful medical organization.
Lori V.
3 weeks ago
Excellent service all the way around. My surgery TNP has gone better than I could ever expected. Katie, Matt, are always there with answer's with pain meds, pt. Dr. Purcell did a excellent job. Would highly recommend this practice.
Kate J.
3 weeks ago
Derek Purcell explained my condition thoroughly to me and immediately followed up with other necessary information. He was kind, warm, friendly, a perfect doctor!
Sherry T.
3 weeks ago
Everyone at the office from the receptionist to the PAs to the doctor were very friendly, helpful and professional. I was taken right on time for my appointment. Dr. Purcell was very knowledgeable about my knee issue and gave me many options as to how to treat my arthritis.
Tim H.
3 weeks ago
Fit me in for an acute visit on a busy day. Care excellent
Michelle C.
4 weeks ago
Dr Purcell is the best in the business. He took such great care of my son.
Noah Q.
4 weeks ago
Dr. Purcell has been seeing me for the past 4 or 5 years. He was my second opinion Dr. for my left knee. The doctor I saw before him just wanted me get knee surgery again. At the time I felt like I didn't need surgery so I went to Dr. Purcell. He is very knowledgeable and has given me lots of information on what I could do to help alleviate the pain. It has helped immensely. I would highly recommend him for any of your orthopedic issues.
Tammie A.
4 weeks ago
Dr. Purcell is a wonderful doctor! He is always professional and polite when I see him. He takes time to answer all my questions.
J P.
4 weeks ago
Dr. Purcell was honest and helpful. I really appreciate his insight. Thank you doctor! :)
Nancy M.
4 weeks ago
I have received excellent health care with Dr. Purcell. He is professional while also being pleasant. We discuss my medical situation and possible options. I tend to be a little conservative in my approach. He is respectful of that. I feel comfortable with both his office and staff as well.
Darrel H.
1 month ago
Outstanding service
rocketman71863
1 month ago
Dr Purcell and his staff are top notch! I would recommend them to anyone thinking of getting a knee replacement! Second Pic is 7 weeks post op with 120-125° flexion and 0 to -5° extension! Can't say enough good things about Dr Purcell!
George W.
1 month ago
The waiting time for my appointment was brief. Within 5 minutes of entering the office, my knee was x-rayed and examined by Doctor Purcell. The doctor apprised me of the medical condition of my knee, and suggested a number of possible treatments. I chose one of the options offered, and was immediately treated, until I had time to go over more long-term solutions. It was the first time I had relief in my left knee in over a year. I had arrived to the office in an elevator, but I departed comfortably using the stairway. Doctor Purcell was professional, knowledgeable and efficient. The staff was courteous and helpful. It was a pleasant and fruitful visit. Thank you!
George W.
1 month ago
Everything was timely and all staff were respectful.

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.