719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

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4.9
Based on 978 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
Badge for Castle Connolly Top Doc 2026
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

Shelia M.
3 days ago
Very impressed and explain everything to where you can understand and explain all choices to use without saying surgery needed first. Let me know what things could possible help but in the long run surgery possible if any of the choices doesn't help the situation. Very informative and knowledgeable. I would refer for sure.
rocketman71863
3 days ago
Dr Purcell and his staff are top notch! I would recommend them to anyone thinking of getting a knee replacement! Second Pic is 7 weeks post op with 120-125° flexion and 0 to -5° extension! Can't say enough good things about Dr Purcell!
Helen B.
4 days ago
Dr. Purcell has performed replacements on both of my shoulders. A total reverse on one and a simple replacement on the other. His surgical skills are beyond excellent and his approach to post op care is exceptional. He is patient focused, answers questions in a thorough, easy to understand manner. You can trust him 100%
Amoretta E.
4 days ago
Great experience
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.
Gary V.
4 days ago
Very professional and knowledgeable and has great bedside manner. Has a wonder staff. I highly recommend DR. Purcell for all your orthopedic needs.
Jo Ann M.
5 days ago
Dr Purcell provided detailed information about my knee issues. Offered recommendations on how to proceed with caring for the pain which is experienced often. I asked for a cortisone injection before leaving his office. It’s was the best decision, I’m pain free today and was able to get done shopping done without feeling the intense pain. It’s the first time in months that taking the stairs was easier. Thank you so much for caring for my needs & taking the time to explain everything to me.
L D.
5 days ago
Professionalism at its best. Every staff member, every doctor, and anyone on his surgical staff has been kind, honest, available, and professional. I'm so glad Dr Purcell was my surgeon
Kay P.
2 weeks ago
Dr. Purcell and his staff are wonderful, I move here from Greensboro NC and I need to find orthopedic doctor for my knees, I have OA in both knees, and he has been wonderful He answer any questions or concerns I have, they are very friendly and patient, when I have to get them knee injections he dose it so quick no pain, its in and out. I am up for a knee replace coming up next year I know Dr. Purcell will give me the upmost care..Just want to thank him and his staff in advance for a fantastic job. Update July 8 2026 knee replacement surgery by Dr. Purcell and his team as before they did fantastic job thank you Dr. Purcell and your team appreciated all you did to get me through this ordeal. 👍🏿 Both knees have been done now, but through it all Dr. Purcell did a fantastic job thank you, answer all my questions and gave me the best of care. Best orthopedic doctor in Colorado 👍🏿
Tim H.
3 weeks 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.

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.