Updated on Feb. 20, 2025
For Kenny, an avid surfer, dedicated Little League coach, and hard-working construction professional, elbow pain was more than just an inconvenience — it was a roadblock. His physically demanding lifestyle depended on his ability to move freely and without discomfort, but as the pain in his forearm worsened, it began to disrupt every aspect of his life.
Kenny first noticed the discomfort while lifting materials on a construction site. At the time, he thought it was a temporary strain and decided to power through. However, over the following months, the pain persisted and began interfering with his daily activities.
“I tried ice, stretching, and even some over-the-counter painkillers, but nothing seemed to work,” Kenny explained. “I thought I could manage it on my own, but it just got worse.”
Soon, the pain started impacting his personal life. Surfing became less enjoyable, and coaching Little League turned into a challenge. “When I couldn’t even throw a ball without wincing, I knew I needed professional help,” Kenny said.
Fortunately, Kenny didn’t have to look far for guidance. His brother, Joshua Snodgrass, M.D., serves as the medical director of the Sports Medicine Program at MemorialCare Medical Group. After hearing about Kenny’s struggles, Dr. Snodgrass suggested an evaluation to identify the root cause of his pain.
“Kenny’s case is a textbook example of an overuse injury,” Dr. Snodgrass said. “Years of repetitive motion and strain can lead to chronic issues if left untreated.”
Using His Plasma’s Own Healing Powers
Dr. Snodgrass recommended Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy; a cutting-edge treatment designed to promote healing from within. For Kenny, the idea of using his body’s own cells to heal was intriguing. “I was nervous about the injections, but I trusted my brother’s expertise,” he said.
PRP therapy harnesses the body’s natural healing abilities by using plasma enriched with a high concentration of platelets. These platelets release growth factors essential for tissue repair and regeneration. The treatment involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to isolate the platelets, and then injecting the concentrated plasma directly into the injured area.
PRP is also commonly used to treat:
- Tendon injuries
- Ligament sprains
- Joint pain
- Overuse injuries in athletes and active individuals
“Unlike cortisone injections, which offer temporary relief, PRP addresses the underlying damage,” Dr. Snodgrass explained. “It promotes tissue repair, making it an ideal solution for overuse injuries like Kenny’s.”
PRP therapy has gained popularity in sports medicine due to its effectiveness and low risk of complications. Since it uses the patient’s own cells, the likelihood of allergic reactions is minimal. “It’s a natural, innovative approach to healing,” said Dr. Snodgrass.
Through PRP Therapy Procedure & Recovery
On the day of the procedure, Kenny arrived feeling a mix of nervousness and hope. The staff walked him through every step, ensuring he felt comfortable and offered him snacks. “They explained everything in detail, which really helped calm my nerves,” Kenny said. After drawing his blood and processing the PRP, the injection was administered into his elbow.
Though the injection caused brief discomfort, Kenny felt a sense of relief almost immediately. “It was a sharp pain, but it felt productive — like something was finally being fixed,” he shared. Over the next few days, he experienced some soreness, which Dr. Snodgrass assured him was a normal part of the healing process.
Recovery from PRP therapy isn’t instantaneous. It requires patience and adherence to a rehabilitation plan. Dr. Snodgrass emphasized the importance of realistic expectations. “Healing takes time,” he said. “The body needs weeks to respond to the treatment and begin repairing the damaged tissue.”
Two weeks after the injection, Kenny began noticing subtle improvements. By the fourth week, the pain that once hindered his movements had significantly diminished. He could lift again without wincing, and he was even able to start surfing again. While occasional soreness remained, Kenny was thrilled to regain his confidence and return to his active lifestyle.
Kenny’s journey also deepened his appreciation for proactive healthcare. “I used to think I could tough it out, but I’ve learned the importance of listening to your body and seeking help early,” he said. “Ignoring pain only makes it worse.”
Sports Medicine Program is For Athletes and So Many More
The Sports Medicine Program is dedicated to helping individuals recover from injuries and regain their active lives whether, amateur, semi-pro or weekend warrior enthusiasts. The program combines cutting-edge treatments like PRP therapy with a patient-centered approach, tailoring care to each individual’s unique needs.
“Every patient is different, and we strive to provide personalized solutions,” Dr. Snodgrass said. “For Kenny, PRP therapy was the right choice, but we also offer a range of other treatments to address various conditions.”
From athletes to active individuals and those simply looking to stay active, MemorialCare’s team of experts is committed to delivering exceptional care.
“Our goal is to help patients achieve their best possible outcomes, whether it’s returning to competitive sports or simply enjoying everyday activities without pain,” Dr. Snodgrass said.
Kenny’s story is a reminder of the importance of addressing overuse injuries early. Ignoring persistent pain can lead to chronic issues that may require more invasive treatments down the line.
“Don’t wait until it’s too late,” Kenny advised. “Take the first step toward healing and talk to a specialist.”
With innovative treatments like PRP therapy, or non-operative treatments for musculoskeletal problems such as sprains, muscle strains, fractures, tendonitis, or osteoarthritis, the team of dedicated professionals at the Sports Medicine Program, can help patients regain control of their lives and return to the activities they love.
Additionally, Sports Medicine specialists promote healthy lifestyle choices and advise on nutrition, supplements, and ergogenic aids to help improve physical performance.
Sports Medicine specialists do not only cater to athletes, they are open to anyone who wants to bring an improved sense of exercise and movement. They are an excellent resource for individuals who wish to become active or start a new exercise program.
“Whether someone is experiencing a minor or serious athletic injury, our goal is to ensure the best care possible, take the first step toward a pain-free, active lifestyle—because everyone deserves to live life to the fullest,” said Dr. Snodgrass.
