Daniel Ocel, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon - Foot & Ankle

4.9

Based on 213 reviews.

Foot & Ankle Surgery, Fellowship Trained

Specialties: Foot & Ankle • General Orthopedics

Fax: 303-420-2279

Scheduling Notice Please note: Our self-scheduling tool will be undergoing maintenance from Friday, June 27 through end of day Monday, June 30.

In the meantime, you can still request an appointment by calling the number below or by clicking the Request Appt button below. One of our scheduling team members will follow up with you during normal business hours.

All Physicians

Alan Ng, DPM, FACFAS

Andrew Apple, MD

Andrew W. Parker, MD

Bari Madureira, DO, CAQSM

Benjamin Mitchell, MD

Brian J. Larkin, MD

Carlton Clinkscales, MD

Cary R. Motz, MD

Chance J. Henderson, MD

Christopher D’Ambrosia, MD

Craig A. Davis, MD

Dane Swinehart, MD

Daniel Ocel, MD

David Bierbrauer, MD

David M. Weinstein, MD

Davis Hurley, MD

Derek Purcell, MD

Efren Caballes, DO, CAQSM

Eric J. Lindberg, MD

Erisha K. Tashakori, MD

Frank B. Wydra, MD, FAAOS

Gregg G. Martyak, MD

Gregory Fasani-Feldberg, MD

Harold Hunt, MD

Imran K. Choudhry, MD

Jared L. Michalson, MD

Jason Rovak, MD

Jed Maslow, MD

Jeffrey A. Arthur, DO

John A. Wallington, MD

John R. Shank, MD

Jordan Kump, MD

Joseph Hsin, MD

Judith Kopinski, MD

Justin Newman, MD

Karl M. Larsen, MD

Kevin Blue, DPM, FACFAS

Kirk Jeffers, MD

Ky M. Kobayashi, MD

Laura L. Snyder, DO

Lauren MacTaggart, MD

Matt Delarosa, MD

Micah Adamson, MD

Nathan Bascom, DO

Nathan Faulkner, MD

Neil V. Mohile, MD

Nicholas Golinvaux, MD

Philip A. Stull, MD

Robert Leland, MD

Rudy Kovachevich, MD

Ryan J. Caufield, MD

Samuel R. Huntley, MD, MPH

Scott G. Resig, MD

Sean Brugman, MD

Sean Griggs, MD

Stephen G. Thon, MD

Stuart H. Myers, MD

Thomas Eickmann, MD

Thomas Mann, MD

William J. Ciccone II, MD

Dr. Daniel Ocel joined Cornerstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in 2005. He is a board-certified, orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery. He also practices in general orthopedics and sports medicine. Dr. Ocel’s treatment philosophy focuses on compassionate, individualistic care. He is a member of the Colorado Medical Society, American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society, and American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Prior to working at Cornerstone Orthopedics, Dr. Ocel graduated summa cum laude from Creighton University School of Medicine and was honored to receive a Health Professions Scholarship from the US Navy while in medical school. He continued his training in Chicago at the University of Illinois completing his residency in orthopedic surgery. He received the Weinstein Award as outstanding graduating chief resident.

Dr. Ocel served our country for three years as head of orthopedic surgery at Naval Hospital Corpus Christi. He received the Naval-Marine Corp Commendation medal for his military service. Dr. Ocel moved with his family to Sydney, Australia to continue his medical education, where he completed a fellowship in foot and ankle surgery with Dr. Martin Sullivan, Australia’s premier foot and ankle surgeon. During his fellowship, Dr. Ocel cared for many of Sydney’s top professional athletes including Australian Olympic athletes competing in the summer games of 2004. Dr. Ocel completed his fellowship with Dr. Robert Anderson at the Miller Clinic in Charlotte, NC.

When he is not performing a surgery or on a medical mission trip to Cambodia with the Cornerstone Foundation, Dr. Ocel loves spending time with his wife and children, as well as golfing and playing soccer.

Education

Fellowship: Foot & Ankle, North Shore Foot and Ankle Center, Sydney, Australia. Foot and Ankle Miller Orthopedic Clinic Charlotte, NC
Residency: Orthopedic Surgery, University of Illinois-Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
US Navy Veteran – Head of Orthopedic Surgery at Naval Hospital Corpus Christi
Medical School: MD, Creighton University, Omaha, NE
Undergraduate School: BS, Biology, St. Scholastica College, Duluth, MN

Board Certifications

American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons

Memberships & Organizations

American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society
Official USA Rugby Team Physician
Recipient of Weinstein Award: Outstanding Graduating Senior Resident
Treated Australian Olympic Athletes

Leadership & Outreach

Dr. Ocel's Reviews

valerie B.

12 hours ago

Dr. Ocel is an excellent doctor medically but he also cares about his patients. He goes the extra mile to reassure the patient and the family.

Catherine E.

2 weeks ago

I have to update my progress from my recent ankle surgry (Brostrom ligament restructuring, arthroscopic cleanup and microfracture: 4 weeks NWB in cast or air cast/boot. That's the worst part. Then I was told I could start walking and I did. Very little pain except some stiffness and weakness to be expected. I've made a dramatic recovery at week five, I can walk around the house with no boot, do PT and feel really good about it and am back to spin class and stationary bike. I am amazed at my recovery and how good my ankle feels. Dr Ocel is an excellent surgeon and he most definitely knows what he is doing. I trust the process and am so excited that I did this. I've had very little pain or discomfort, and amazing progress. Highly recommend!

Lyn C.

2 months ago

Dr Ocel, Great Orthopedic physician Interpersonal bedside, is sincere, confident, thoughtful and adds a little levity when appropriate. And if something isn't right... he'll fix it. Thank you Dr Ocel for helping direct care for my calf strain and metatarsal pain.

.

Bruce B.

4 months ago

I’ve been a patient at Cornerstone for 25 yrs. Both physicians and physical therapy. I have followed a couple previous physicians who opened up their own practice, one of which referred me to Dr Ocel for an issue with my left foot. My appointment went quickly and Dr Ocel explained a process actually with another provider who is an expert in my situation. Efficient and honest!

Diana H.

4 months ago

Efficient & caring staff.

David C.

5 months ago

Can not think of a better human being let alone physician than Dr. Ocel. Great just knowing him.

Kat W.

5 months ago

Dr Ocel knows his stuff! I recommend anyone struggling with foot structure concerns/ plantar fasciitis. Incredibly Professional and so amazing to work with on my feet issues. Explains all options and allows you to make decisions that work best for you.

k N.

6 months ago

Great energy in the office, I’ve been here as a patient and a care giver on many occasions…. For different providers, each one is great…but I really enjoyed meeting Dr. Ocel!

Michael M.

6 months ago

Doctor Ocel is outstanding! He is thorough, knowledgeable, and has a depth of experience that is unparalleled! He is direct, articulate and very personable. He was very helpful in working with me to identify and treat a couple of foot issues that I was dealing with.

Bradford H.

6 months ago

What a great blessing it was to find Dr. Ocel to help me understand and employ a pragmatic approach to my osteoarthritis in my large toes. Incredibly insightful, encouraging and he changed my paradigm about how I can reach my goal of achieving optimal health and strength when I’m 85. He encouraged me to keep doing the things I’m doing. I’m not come from a place of fear.

I’ve got a game plan to follow and I feel like he’ll be with me through the entire process.
The medical profession could use many more doctors like Dr. Ocel!

Mindy D.

6 months ago

Dr.OCell & his team have been amazingly kind & patient with me through my journey. They truly want to take care of their patients. Thank You 😊

Holly D.

6 months ago

It was so great to see you! Thank you

Nicole L.

7 months ago

Straight to the point and direct! Dr Ocel had me diagnosed and in surgery within 5 weeks of my first appointment. I am now without foot pain for the first time in over a year and I know I will be back to the sport I love in the next few months. I would highly recommend him!

Ron K.

7 months ago

Dr Ocel is the best.. An 11 on a 10 scale. What I appreciate most is his directness in what the problem is and what will be necessary to resolve it.
Ron Kenney

Jolene N.

8 months ago

Dr Ocell and his team helped our daughter feel comfortable and we're all very responsive. He always goes above and beyond and my kids love Dr Ocell. We would recommend them for any of your ortho needs.

Jason W.

9 months ago

I have always had great visits with Dr Ocel and never felt rushed. He explained every detail perfectly and had great listening skills. He gave excellent recommendations, and the medical specialists he referred me to were outstanding. With his treatment plan, I was able to avoid surgery and continue training with my sport. I would recommend Dr. Ocel to all my friends and family needing orthopedic care. 5/5 Stars

Cynthia M.

9 months ago

Very wonderful experience,, great doctors and staff,, I was very pleased with my experience. I would recommend this medical professional team to anyone needing assistance with their orthopedic health needs

Gary H.

10 months ago

Doctor Ocel is amazing, he actually takes the time necessary to explain, what is causing my pain and how it can be fixed. My feet have crippled me for years. Now I am on my way to a pain free, active life again.

Dottie U.

10 months ago

Always feel at home in this office, friendly and efficient staff from receptionist to doctors. Never have a long wait, either. I always feel like I'm in good hands!

Mark S.

10 months ago

Dr Ocel is the best. Great surgeon great person!!!

Sharon P.

10 months ago

Dr Ocel is awesome! He listened to my concerns and explained my options. Very kind and genuine concern for my injury. Would highly recommend!

Diana S.

11 months ago

Cornerstone is remarkable! Dr Ocel was very knowledgeable, responsive to my injury, and very caring. Best Doctor I’ve seen in years!! The staff is very good and organized.

Jesus Salazar V.

11 months ago

He is just an amazing person and caregiver as well as knowledge is his love for the patients

Tina B.

11 months ago

Dr Ocel his PA and all the staff were so kind. It was a very good experience all around. Dr Ocel was so knowledgeable and personable and that put me at ease. Highly recommended.

Valerie B.

11 months ago

Dr Ocel really listened and I greatly appreciated his confidence in his diagnosis and treatment plan.

Rami M.

11 months ago

Nice friendly and knowledgeable

Kurt W.

11 months ago

Dr Ocel is a great doctor with a very pleasant manner. He is very knowledgeable and provides excellent care to his patients

Gregory K.

12 months ago

Dr. Ocel did a great job on both of my toes. Could not be happier! Highly recommend!

Gwen R.

1 year ago

I’ve been seeing Dr. Ocel for several years. He is knowledgeable, caring, and takes the time for his patients. I had checked around for an excellent ankle surgeon and several doctors who knew of him highly recommended that Dr. Ocel was the one to check out. I’m glad I listened to those who referred him!

Renee L.

1 year ago

Love Dr. Ocel he is the best! Takes time to explain everything doesn’t treat you like a number there’s a lot to be said for that! Highly recommend him.

Mark O.

1 year ago

Very informative and professional 👏

Rachel H.

1 year ago

Both me and my husband have had great experiences with Dr. Ocel & his team. I’m 9 months post-op from an ankle reconstruction, and I am back to all of my regular activities and sports with no pain. He is thorough, caring, and encouraging, and I would highly recommend him to anyone!

Bruce C.

1 year ago

He has treated members of my family for years and I have observed his surgery therefore the reason I picked him.

Eric R.

1 year ago

Dr Ocell took time to provide all my options to treat my heel and knee issues. Ver thorough and patient.

Becky O.

1 year ago

I am so happy I got back with Cornerstone Orthopedic! Dr Adamson fixed my hip this year and Dr Ocel (among others) took care of my mom after a bad car crash in 2006. Dr Daniel Ocel is the BEST foot ortho guy in the state if not the national! Now my “royal toe” will be taken care of my a ROYAL DR!

I only wish I could leave more than 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟.

Mark

1 year ago

He is a great ankle surgeon. He was very professional. His office staff was always helpful. I would recommend him knowing you would be in the best hands!

Rosetta T.

1 year ago

Dr Daniel Orcel is wonderful. Takes time to listen and explains. He has an outstanding personality. So kind and caring. Very professional and courteous. I'm so grateful he was referred to me as my foot and ankle Dr. 5 Star all the way

Donald A.

1 year ago

Doc was very easy to hear and follow. He's always smiling and a really fun nice guy, on top of being a very top surgeon. Thanks so much, Doc.

c R.

2 years ago

I went to Dr. Ocel to fix a failed ankle fusion. I sort of expected him to say there was nothing he could do or that they could amputate the foot, but he was very positive and I have surgery scheduled! Staff was wonderful. I was told he is the best; I feel very fortunate I was able to have him see me.i can walk again! After 2 years on knee scooter & crutches I can walk! All thanks to Dr Ocel & his team!! Adding to the above I am walking 2 miles+ every morning in the mountains To put it simply, Dr. Ocel is the best, better than all the rest!

Pat A.

2 years ago

My first office visit went very well. Dr. Ocel was very personable and explained what was going on with my foot and what needed to be done as well as recovery time. He was easy to converse with and put me at ease. Enjoyed meeting him look forward to future visits.

Gayle W.

2 years ago

Dr Ocel and his staff were wonderful. Very professional and caring.

Amy D.

2 years ago

This practice is the best of the best! The staff is compassionate & mindful of your care. Dr. Daniel Ocel is warm, joyful and skilled beyond! I feel safe as I know I’m in great hands with this awesome team!

James M.

2 years ago

Great experience from the beginning of my condition, ankle replacement.

Monica D.

2 years ago

From the staff at the front desk, to Dr Ocel, everyone is SO nice! Dr Ocel’s bedside manner is impeccable and makes you feel like he genuinely cares.
He took the time to thoroughly explain the injury and the surgery, which was refreshing!

Michael S.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel always listens to your problem before he makes any diagnosis; he takes the time to make sure he understands what your concerns are. In short, he’s one of those doctors that actually listens to you. And, he is an excellent surgeon. I’ve been going to him since 2012 and I am sure I will continue until the day he retires.

Steve W.

2 years ago

Had to wait a few minutes to see Dr Ocel but it was worth it. He very professionally reviews and explained my MRI in detail and told me my Achilles injuries could be self healed with a period of therapy sessions and there was no need for surgery.
He made my day !!!
2 months later I can walk without pain , no crutches, boots or pain. Still working on the strength of my calf muscles but so much better and so happy not to have surgery

Pat B.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel is the best foot surgeon I have ever had. And believe me, I have had many! Thanks for your care!

Megan N.

2 years ago

He’s definitely earned the reputation of being the best because he is the best. Not only does he do superior work but also surrounds himself by only the best supportive care. To the front staff, nurses, PT, and extra services you have to go out to… he only selects places he approves. As someone who also works in healthcare i know when im being duped. With dr ocel and his team, you know you are getting the best.

Elyse M.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in Colorado. I have had a long history with him. I have had a total of four ankle surgeries done by him. I had surgery in 2008 when I first was injured. I had surgery four times in five years consecutively. At the time, I was a competitive dancer and Dr. Ocel knew it was always my goal to return to dancing. After each surgery I was able to return to an extremely high level of dance and succeed in my recovery year after year of re-injuring my ankle. He was always very thorough in explaining my injury to me, discussing the surgery to be done, and always active in my post-op care. His team of PT’s also took extremely good care of me and focused on my recovery to ensure I retained good strength and range of motion after each surgery to return to ballet and my other dance activities. Over the years he has become like family to us. After I moved out of Colorado I had to have another ankle surgery. This time I was unable to travel to him. He made sure to make himself available to have a conversation with the orthopedic surgeon who was going to be operating on my ankle in Houston. He has always gone above and beyond in his care to me as a patient. I would recommend him to anyone for any of their orthopedic needs. He is smart, kind, lively, and overall an incredible person. Thankful to know Dr. Ocel.

Taylor M.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel was very knowledgeable and outlined all of the possible healing options best for my condition.

Kathy H.

2 years ago

Warm, caring experience. Support staff, including front office, x-ray tech and medical assistant were friendly and efficient. Dr. Ocel explained my foot condition and answered all of my treatment questions.

claudia Dee H.

2 years ago

Dr. OCEL was as always a light hearted , jokester and very pleasant. On time .. checking in on computer isn't pleasant, but do.. I did not pay ahead th $10 copay because bill from January had charges on and the receptionist did not want me to pay drug charge explained it changes every visit..tried to show bill from Jan. It took a bit before all was done. Have a unexpected happiness this weekend Dr. Ocel and staff.

Lock L.

2 years ago

Dr Ocel is hands down the most caring physician I have ever worked with. He’s the very best in foot and ankle surgeries, but will go beyond that to help you as his patient get whatever you need medically, I wish I could give him 100 stars

Teresa K.

2 years ago

The Dr and nurses were so polite, and friendly. But try to call and get a live person.

Diane D.

2 years ago

Dr ocel
I can say honestly Dr ocel is the only surgeon I trust. The only one I will go to.

Sarah G.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel was very knowledgeable and respectful. I appreciated that he understood my injury, the best way to treat it, and approached it from an athlete's perspective. Athletic injuries and recovery have different goals and mindsets involved and I loved that he understood that.

Cheryl S.

2 years ago

Dr Ocel is always glad to see you and very helpful when you have questions. He always takes the extra time to answer all the questions and makes sure that you understands what he is telling you. I would recommend him without a doubt.

Charlene M.

2 years ago

I would recommend this facilities to anybody that has orthopedic problems "Dr Ocel " is one of the best.

Chris S.

2 years ago

Great Doc tells it like it is. No Sugar coating.

cheryl S.

2 years ago

The experience I had before surgery, the surgery and the follow up has been nothing but excellent. From making appointments, the office staff and seeing Dr Ocel could not have been easier. I would definitely recommend Dr Ocel and Cornerstone Orthopedics.

Georgean L.

2 years ago

I absolutely love the staff,Dr Ocel and all of the surgical staff

Zahra K.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel, thanks for your kind words and I really appreciate your support.

Sarah G.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel is an amazing surgeon. My ankle is healing very well. It is rare to have a surgeon at the top of his field who also listens to your concerns and takes the time to explain the healing process.

S C.

2 years ago

Dr Ocel and his team are Outstanding!! I have had treatment and past surgery at the achilles by Dr Ocel- he is caring, detailed, an excellent surgeon and has great bedside manner. My husband is a physical therapist elsewhere and we refer everyone who needs foot/ankle care and/or surgery to him.
His team- Marissa and Katie- are also great at what they do. While I hope not to need future surgery, I know I am in very good hands if I do. Thank you for all the wonderful care!

Lisa M.

2 years ago

My experience was very good but I left with no instructions on how I should deal with my broken foot. I wasn't sure if I should ice it, limit my walking, etc. I left a message with his assistant on Friday. I am sure I'll hear from her this week as to what to do.

Cindy M.

2 years ago

As a healthcare practitioner myself, I really appreciated how Dr. Ocel explained my mechanism of injury, as well as the success rate of the surgery I will be having and the successful outcomes of prior patients.

Allen G.

2 years ago

Excellent surgeon.
I had trouble walking on my foot.
After Dr Ocel fused my big toe
I am now pain free and back to skiing.

Austin S.

2 years ago

Dr. Ocel is one of the kindest doctors I’ve ever met. He explained things well and made me feel comfortable about the next steps going forward.

Robert K.

2 years ago

I’ve had three surgeries at Cornerstone Orthopedics- back, shoulder and foot. My elderly mother also had a knee and hip replacement from the doctors at Cornerstone Orthopedics. All outcomes have been tremendously successful. The doctors are all top experts in their area of expertise. They are also very caring and won’t propose surgery unless it’s absolutely necessary. I would not trust anyone else with my orthopedic needs. Cornerstone is the “best”!

Andrea H.

2 years ago

Super down to earth, friendly, and helpful when I broke my foot. Thankfully, I didn't need surgery but if something ever comes up with my family or me in the future, I know where we're going.

Debbie F.

2 years ago

Dr Ocel treats the whole patient, not just a joint. He’s understanding and I have never felt rushed. The whole package. So excited to be in his hands for my upcoming surgery (s).

Dr. Ocel's Clinic Locations

Golden Lutheran

12905 W 40th Ave, Suite 515

Golden

80401

Westminster

500 W. 144th Ave, Ste 230

Westminster

80023

Superior Orthopedic Clinic

3 Superior Dr, Ste 225

Superior

80027

Daniel Ocel, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon - Foot & Ankle

All Physicians

Leadership & Outreach

Dr. Ocel's Reviews

Dr. Ocel's Clinic Locations

Golden Lutheran

Westminster

Superior Orthopedic Clinic

– ANNOUNCEMENT – Effective 01/01/2026

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

– ANNOUNCEMENT –
Effective 01/01/2026