Derek Purcell, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon - Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Specialist

4.9

Based on 883 reviews.

Specializing in Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Surgery, Arthroscopic, Cartilage Restoration & Total Shoulder Replacement

CO Springs Briargate

Fax: 719-623-1051

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

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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

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Jeffrey A. Arthur, DO

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Judith Kopinski, MD

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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. 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

Arthroscopic Knee and Shoulder Surgery
ACL and Ligament Reconstruction
Cartilage Restoration Procedures
Shoulder and Knee Joint Replacement
Sports Injuries and Overuse Conditions
Athletic Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation

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

Leadership & Outreach

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

Ken W.

Dr Purcell is such a great surgeon! I felt so much better the day of my surgery than before the surgery. I would highly recommend him!

Kaelin D.

Dr.Purcell is wonderful!!! He replaced my left knee and it is great! I can do the things I now that I hadn’t been able to do for a couple years. Thank you Dr. Purcell!

Carmen D. O.

Gracias Dr.estoy muy complacida por todo lo que a ello por mi mami y por lo humano y estoy muy agradecida por su compasión con las personas mayores que Dios lo bendiga y le de mucha salud

Jim W.

Fantastic. Very friendly, no wait, specific with the issues seen for. Awesome, easy to fill out Patient portal.

Riverview Ranch R.

Excellent Dr.s on time with every appointment! Did my total shoulder replacement and couldn't be happier!! Highly recommend!!!

Darrel H.

Outstanding service

Melodie H.

Did not have to wait long, he explained everything clearly talked a little bit fast but my husband had been through the surgery a few years back so I was familiar with it.Now I am just waiting for scheduling to call. He seems like a very nice Dr.

Stephanie L.

He was very thorough. He told us all of the instructions we needed to know for the next few weeks after surgery, slowly and looking to see if we understood. Then, later in the meeting he repeated himself. He also listened well when my son and I were asking questions. I was impressed and happy with him!

Val S.

I’m so glad I made Dr Purcell my knee doctor. I went in months ago with bone-on-bone problems in one knee, painful but manageable with OTC drugs and a knee wrap. I fully expected to leave the appointment with a surgery date for a knee replacement. However, Dr Purcell explained options to me and I decided to give the hyaluronic acid injections a try. They worked! Lots of relief from the pain as they settled in. I don’t wrap it anymore and only take ibuprofen occasionally for other issues. I’ve just now gone in for a second round of injections (the first lasted for 9 months) and am grateful to Dr Purcell for his expertise in working with joint problems and solutions. He’s super knowledgeable yet efficient. The office is friendly and efficient. Highly recommended!

Pam A.

Dr. Purcell was very efficient and knowledgeable in conveying the types of treatments available for my osteoarthritis.

Mark B.

Dr Purcell and his office staff are very professional and punctual. I arrived 15 minutes early and I actually got in before my appointment time. Dr. Purcell has done a knee replacement for me which is perfect and I am now seeing him for a shoulder replacement which I know he will do an excellent job and my shoulder will be just like new again. I would highly recommend Dr. Purcell and his staff for all of your medical needs.

Daniel W.

Good information and really knowledgeable and out my knee.

Leslie D.

Dr. Purcell is very punctual and that is a plus that a lot of doctors don’t have; however, to a detriment. We have had about 5-6 follow-up appts for my daughter in the past six months. With each of those, he has only spent about 5 min with us. Now, at the end of her six month treatment, she is no where where she needs to be. I feel that a lot of this could have been possibly discussed along the way. He also is seeing her (a minor), at an office that primarily does adults, so that is nice.

Phillip L.

Wonderful treatment. Staff was tremendous, and Dr Purcell is a superstar.

Robert L.

Dr. Derek B. Purcell is an outstanding orthopedic surgeon. He surgically replaced both of my knees in Oct & Dec 2025. Fromthe very first consultation his communication was exceptional. He clearly explained the procedure, thoroughly reviewed all potential risks and complications, and made sure I was fully informed and comfortable before moving forward with surgery.

Dr. Purcell’s professionalism and surgical skills are supported by the excellence of his team. From pre-surgery through post-operative care, they have remained engaged, responsive, and proactive in their communication, which has made a significant difference in my recovery.

Dr. Purcell also specializes in shoulder surgeries, and based on my experience, I would trust him completely for any orthopedic care.

Without question, he is the best doctor I have ever had in my life. I highly recommend Dr. Purcell to anyone seeking tier 1 orthopedic care!!

William M.

Very pleased with the professionalism of Dr. Purcell.

Cate R.

Provides excellent care

KBS B.

I had work done by Colorado Center of Orthopedic Excellence prior to this visit.
Dr Purcell was very informative, he explained all about what was going on with my knee & what all my options were. Then I asked what he would do if it was his knee? Without hesitation he said he would try the gel shot, saying the knee replacement should be a last resort! I almost expected being a surgeon for him to say the surgery, I really appreciate the professionalism & his honesty!
Thank you to everyone & Colorado Center of Orthopedic Excellence you guys are great!

Deborah S.

Doctor Purcell saw me in a timely manner, explained everything I needed to understand, it was an excellent experience! He is great, glad he is my doctor!!

phillip B.

Dr Purcell was prompt , efficient, and correct in diagnosing and treating my knee issue! I recommend him to you for treatment of any extremity issue!

Lisa K.

Both my husband and I have had shoulder surgery with Dr. Purcell and have great outcomes. He is very professional and talented surgically. We appreciate how he has helped us both!

Jose V.

This was my second time on the surgeons table with my surgeon being Derek Purcell, he is an amazing surgeon very efficient, when you go under he does what he has to do professionally and when you wake up, with postop pain, they take every precautions to manage your pain. He is a great surgeon referring to Dr. Purcell, and his staff from the bottom on up, They’re awesome and I highly recommend them. I had two shoulder replacements and they broke th went smooth. I’m very happy with Dr. Purcell and his staff. And aspecial thanks to his assistant Matt Aldraucht an amazing person. Thank you

Mary Jane C.

Dr Purcell and is staff were wonderful, supportive and easily accessible during the process of my ACL reconstruction surgery. Excellent, skilled services. Highly recommend!

Bill S.

Dr. B. Purcell, MD, and his team deserve every bit of praise that can possibly be given. Words are not enough to express the confidence that I have in his professional preparedness, execution, and follow-up. But one word says it all: "Trust". I have complete confidence that the excellence in care and attention to detail will continue to meet my every need during these final stages of recovery from my recent left knee replacement. In summary, his demonstrated track record established over the last 14 months through two knee replacements has given me every reason to highly recommend Dr. Purcell.

Brian C.

Dr Purcell is the best! Such an efficient & friendly staff. I recommend Dr Purcell and OCC to everyone I know!

Judy R.

I have been a patient for many years. I have always found the office to be run very efficiently. The wait time is minimal and the staff very friendly. Dr. Purcell is an excellent physician who takes the time to answer your questions and he explains treatment plans throughly. Dr. Purcell repaired my rotator cuff and I had a positive outcome. I highly recommend this practice and especially Dr. Purcell.

Braxton B.

Dr. Purcell is clearly the surgeon anyone would want to work with. Clearly intelligent, concise, deliberate. I look forward to working with him to aid in my knee recovery.

Addendum: pre-op CNAs and nurses and PACU nurses are amazing. I can’t remember the nurse that had me in PACU- but the woman deserves a pay raise and all the respect in the world.

george C.

Doc Purcell is the best! 3rd rodeo.....4 years ago Doc performed TKR on both knees... working perfectly... this time around Rotator Cuff repair... just beginning second week post op... doing great! Completely repaired!

J R O.

Dr Purcell is very professional. He listens and addresses questions. He is knowledgeable and makes good recommendations. I highly recommend him for orthopaedic care.

Suzanne C.

I feel my health and care from Dr. Purcell was excellent. He explains the procedures and outcomes very thoroughly. He also answers all questions without hesitation. His entire team is beyond professional and caring.

Jann B.

Great experience. Dr Purcell did my tkr and my recovery has been well above average. He has been responsive and interested in my recovery. Highly recommend him.

Sherry L.

My experience excellent. Everyone was professional. They explained what would be happening with the surgery. I have not been able to walk without constant pain in my knee in years until I got this surgery. I thank Dr. Purcell and his team.

Gary V.

Very professional and knowledgeable and has great bedside manner. Has a wonder staff. I highly recommend DR. Purcell for all your orthopedic needs.

Kathy M.

Great doctor

Denise W.

I can say, this Dr. first time seeing him, i went in his office, he cares, pays attention, listens, gives all options. I went there in so much pain, came out from his office with no pain. Great Dr.
Highly recommend this Dr.
He is my Dr.

Patricia L.

Everyone at this office is friendly and professional. Would highly recommend for orthopedic surgery.

Linda D.

I have had 5 surgeries by Dr Purcell and trust him completely. Top notch care.

Roxi F.

So far I'm pleased with my treatment. I have just had a consultation. Dr. Purcell was straight forward to the point and has got me on track for a right knee replacement. I will try to follow up I hope to give him a 5 star rating it is to soon in my process to know yet. I was impressed with the meeting.

Jay K.

Dr. Purcell is professional, knowledgeable, caring, and attentive. I highly recommend him and his staff. They really care. I had a devastating injury with a complex surgery. Dr. Purcell has done an amazing job helping me get to a place of healing and recovery.

Karen F.

I was very impressed with Dr. Purcell's professionalism and attention to my reason to see him. He was polite, personable, and down to earth which immediately put me at ease in knowing this was a doctor who would work with me in making the best decision in going forward with a treatment plan.

Dr. Purcell's Clinic Locations

CO Springs Briargate

2446 Research Pkwy, Ste 200

Colorado Springs

80920

Derek Purcell, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon - Sports Medicine, Knee & Shoulder Specialist

All Physicians

Leadership & Outreach

Matthew Albrecht, PA-C

Dr. Purcell's Reviews

Dr. Purcell's Clinic Locations

CO Springs Briargate

– ANNOUNCEMENT – Effective 01/01/2026

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– ANNOUNCEMENT –
Effective 01/01/2026