719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

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4.9
Based on 963 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

Jean Anne W.
1 day ago
Everyone was friendly, and worked in a timely fashion. I really like Dr Purcel. He listens and answers questions. He's very pleasant to talk to. I've already received a total knee replacement and now I'm wating for the other knee to be done. He did such a great job on the 1st knee so I have no problem having the other one done by him.
Carolyn M.
3 days ago
Dr Purcell is a very kind and knowledgeable person. He was very patient and and answered all my questions. I would highly recommend him.
Sandy W.
3 days ago
Dr. Purcell listens to my concerns and explains so I can understand the changes my knee is going through. He has a calm and reassuring demeanor I appreciate.
Mary Ann T.
3 days ago
Dr Purcell took all the time needed to review my options with my aching knees. Helped design a plan for treatment now and in the future. Thank you Dr Purcell!
Stephanie L.
5 days ago
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! Update: my son is 6 months after surgery. He still is very thorough and wants to make sure we understand. He was personable and asked several times if we had more questions. He has done a wonderful job with my 17 year old!!
Sheila C.
6 days ago
I am forever grateful for the help you gave me my rotator cuff surgery and also allowing my carpal tunnel surgery to be done the same day. Thank you for taking the time and hearing me.
Carson Van Cura S.
1 week ago
I was in and out very quickly, and the Dr and staff were very very professional and efficient. My knee replacement went very smoothly. Still in physical therapy, but am very pleased with the outcome so far. . I am at 3 months from my left knee replacement, (did my right knee), first. I am very pleased with my results. Dr. Purcell and his staff are Great people to work with.
Ursula Z.
1 week ago
The most gracious staff .
B & T M.
1 week ago
Very professional. He put my mind at ease. Dr.Purcell explained something about my leg anatomy that I never knew at 71 yrs. young.
alta G.
1 week ago
Done a great job on my knee

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.