Daniel Ocel, MD

Daniel Ocel, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialist dedicated to helping patients stay active, comfortable and confident so they can live their best lives. He specializes in comprehensive orthopedic care of the foot and ankle, including total ankle arthroplasty, as well as sports-related knee conditions and arthroscopic knee procedures. Dr. Ocel treats a wide range of conditions, from common concerns such as heel pain and tendon injuries to complex deformities and traumatic injuries requiring advanced surgical care. Whenever possible, he emphasizes conservative, non-surgical treatment options. When surgery is necessary, he utilizes advanced, evidence-based techniques designed to optimize outcomes and recovery. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Biology, graduating summa cum laude from The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota. He received his medical degree from Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska, where he was awarded a United States Navy Health Professions Scholarship. Dr. Ocel completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Dr. Ocel proudly served in the United States Navy as Head of Orthopedic Surgery at Naval Hospital Corpus Christi, Texas, where he was awarded the Naval-Marine Corps Commendation Medal for his service. Following his military service, he pursued advanced fellowship training in foot and ankle surgery, first training in Sydney, Australia, with renowned surgeon Martin Sullivan, MD, caring for Olympic and professional athletes. He then completed additional fellowship training with Robert Anderson, MD, in Charlotte, North Carolina, working with the Carolina Panthers. Dr. Ocel continues to care for elite athletes, including members of the U.S. National Rugby Team and U.S. Olympic marathon and triathlon competitors. He is an active member of the Colorado Medical Society, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Ocel is passionate about world soccer, fitness, golf and travel with his family. He also finds great fulfillment participating in orthopedic mission trips to Cambodia and Guatemala, serving communities in need.

Dr. Ocel believes that successful treatment begins with compassionate, individualized care. He is committed to listening closely, understanding each patient’s goals and developing personalized treatment plans. He often tells his patients, “We will walk across this bridge together,” reflecting his belief in partnership throughout the healing journey.