719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

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4.9
Based on 996 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
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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

Jerry D.
3 days ago
Dr Purcell was clear and direct in his explanation of my injury and the different treatment options. His explanation of my MRI results and details while looking at the MRI’s different picture layers helped me better understand the physiological nature of my injury and better understand why the treatment options apply. I would recommend him to others.
Matthew Paradis - Guaranteed R.
3 days ago
Dr. Purcell was clear with his information, detailed with the notes he gave me in print when I left, and helpful with the extra questions I had. Definitely will be back when I need additional care
Anamarie A.
3 days ago
Dr Purcell completed my left knee replacement 3 months ago with complete full recovery and no pain. He is wonderful to talk to. He listened to my concerns and answered every question I had. I would highly recommend Dr Purcell.
RANDY B.
3 days ago
Great place to get repaired. I have recommended Dr.Purcell to everyone I meet with knee pain.
rebecca B.
3 days ago
Dr. Purcell is so nice and a great surgeon. Everyone in the office is so nice.
Gillian W.
1 week ago
Dr Purcell is excellent. He explained my X-rays and treatment possibilities clearly and succinctly. I would give him ten stars if I could!
Ursula Z.
2 weeks ago
The most gracious staff . Your made feel like you're the most important person ever.
Melvin D.
2 weeks ago
I visited Dr. Purcell 15 years ago who successfully repaired my left knee medial meniscus repair. His thorough and comprehensive working knowledge of repairing wheels exceeded all expectations. I unconditionally trust this surgeon with my recent bout with painful knees associated with arthritis.
Marilyn J.
2 weeks ago
Dr Purcell was very knowledgeable and personable. I felt very comfortable as he explained the procedure on knee replacements.
Clark B.
3 weeks ago
Excellent quad repair, highly recommend Dr. Purcell! (Quad rupture NOT recommended!)

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.