Doctors usually classify strains and sprains by the degree of damage done
to the muscles or ligaments.
First degree A first-degree strain or sprain is the least serious of the
three degrees and causes the least amount of damage or stretching of
ligaments or muscle fibers. No tears occur in the tissue fibers, pain and
swelling are minimal, and range of motion (movement up and down, or
sideways) usually is not affected to any significant degree. People who
have a first-degree strain or sprain may experience some slight disability
in using the affected joint, but on the whole, they can resume normal
activities after a short recovery period.
Second degree In a second-degree strain or sprain, up to 80 percent
of the tissue fibers are ruptured. The individual experiences more pain,
edema*, and reduced range of motion. Unlike first-degree injuries, two
to three weeks may pass before the pain and swelling begin to show real
improvement. Athletes who resume their sports activity too soon risk the
real possibility that the second-degree injury will turn into a third-degree
injury, which requires a longer recovery time.
Third degree In third-degree injury, a 100 percent rupture occurs in
all the tissues that surround the joint capsule: muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
A person with a third-degree sprain or strain can no longer use
the injured part of the body and will experience pain and visible bruising.
X-rays may show that even though bones have not been broken, they may
have been chipped. Doctors call such bone chips avulsion (a-VUL-shun)
fractures. Medical professionals usually tell patients to protect the injured
area for 8 to 10 weeks and may order surgery to repair damaged joints.
