719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

Google Icon
4.9
Based on 985 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
Castle Connolly Top Doc
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

Nancy M.
2 days ago
We arrived 30 minutes early from our home in Pueblo & Dr Purcell saw me promptly & we didn’t have to wait which I truly appreciated :)
Peter R.
2 days ago
Dr. Purcell, Matt and staff are fantastic people! I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome of my TKR.
rebecca B.
2 days ago
Dr. Purcell is so nice and a great surgeon. Everyone in the office is so nice.
Tim H.
2 days ago
Had the best experience with 2 knee replacements. He and his team are very Awesome. I would tell anybody that needs them to use them. Very friendly.
Susan V.
2 days ago
Dr. Purcell was great, very professional and personal. Gave me really good advice to help me with my recovery!
Sally K.
2 days ago
Wonderful! Now, getting ready to go back to work!!!!!!
Kat B.
2 days 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 F.
3 days ago
Wonderful staff. Dr. Purcell is great at explaining everything. He makes me feel like I matter.
Ursula Z.
3 days ago
The most gracious staff . Your made feel like you're the most important person ever.
Barry B.
4 days ago
Derek did both rotator cuff repair and total reverse shoulder replacement. Excellent surgeon with great bedside manner. He really cares. Back office runs smoothly. Easy to schedule, get rx refills and questions answered. All orthopedic surgeons should be like him.

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.