719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

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4.9
Based on 1002 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

Roxanna C.
1 day ago
Dr. Purcell is both friendly and professional, explaining each step clearly. I am very pleased with my knee surgery and my recovery is progressing well. He and his staff have been available to me every step of the way. Thank you all so much!
U are K.
2 days ago
Tons of experience in knee replacement. All details of procedure discussed and implemented. Recovery healing and rehab are proceeding as defined and on schedule. I'm very appreciative of results and looking forward to the same excellence when he does the other knee .
Lisa K.
3 days ago
Very professional and a very good Doctor.
Logan L.
3 days ago
Dr Purcell has now work ed on my son, my daughter and myself. Dr Purcell and his staff have been nothing short of professional and have done great work. All of my families experiences have been great! I have also referred a coworker to Dr Purcell and he has had a successful surgery as well. He is the one surgeon I would recommend anyone to go to!
ahmed N.
3 days ago
Dr. Purcell was amazing doctor. He explained my status with all the information information that I need.
Jerry D.
1 week 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.
1 week 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.
1 week 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.
1 week ago
Great place to get repaired. I have recommended Dr.Purcell to everyone I meet with knee pain.
Gillian W.
2 weeks 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!

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.