719-623-1050

Derek Purcell, MD

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4.9
Based on 987 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

Melvin D.
21 hours 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 days ago
Dr Purcell was very knowledgeable and personable. I felt very comfortable as he explained the procedure on knee replacements.
Clark B.
4 days ago
Excellent quad repair, highly recommend Dr. Purcell! (Quad rupture NOT recommended!)
Ursula Z.
4 days ago
The most gracious staff . Your made feel like you're the most important person ever.
Leland G.
1 week ago
Told exactly what was going on and what had happened explained the surgery on a level I could understand as well as how the knee works and what was wrong
Logan L.
1 week 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!
carmen N.
1 week ago
Dr purcell did a great job on my knee replacement i also like that he explained every detail that was going to happen and his assistant Marcus also keep me informed on date of surgery and if i had any questions please contact him i would not go with any other dr but Dr percell 5 stars Exceptional
K A.
2 weeks ago
Doctor Purcell was awesome! Efficient. Funny. Honest. All qualities I like. Thank you!!
Robert D.
2 weeks ago
Outstanding experience with Dr Purcell from my initial visit through surgery and post-op follow-up. He is exceptionally skilled, experienced, straightforward, and genuinely cares about his patients. My results have been excellent, and the entire process exceeded my expectations. I have tremendous confidence in Dr. Purcell and would recommend him without hesitation! Five stars.
Howard W.
2 weeks ago
Very informative about what to expect. Thanks

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.