Muscle Strain Classification

A muscle strain can be classified as mild, moderate, or severe. A mild strain is a result of a small number of muscle fibers being injured, causing only a slight pain and normal strength. A moderate strain involves more fibers being damaged and causes a noticeable loss of strength, as well as pain and bruising. Here's how to determine whether you have a mild, moderate, or severe strain. Once you know which grade your strain is, you can get help to treat it quickly.

Grade I strain

There are many different types of muscle strains. Grade I muscle strains are not as serious as those in Grade II, but they can still be uncomfortable and cause bruising. A grade two muscle strain involves damage to more than one fibre. Symptoms of a grade two muscle strain include pain, swelling, bruising, and reduced strength, mobility, and function. Grade III muscle strains can result in complete muscle rupture and loss of strength and function.

Grade II strain

A mild muscle strain usually improves on its own in a few days. More severe strains, however, may require medical care. Recovery may take four to eight weeks. The healthcare provider can determine the grade of the muscle strain and treat it accordingly. The patient should see a doctor if they experience persistent pain or discomfort, or if further tests are required. A grade III muscle strain may require surgery. In some cases, however, it will heal on its own.

Grade III strain

A muscle strain can be classified as a mild, moderate, or severe one. A mild strain may heal on its own with rest and stretching, while a moderate or severe strain may require surgery or considerable physical therapy. However, the more severe strains can require weeks, even months, of recovery. While Grade I muscle strains can be treated at home, a Grade III strain should be treated by a doctor to ensure the best possible outcome.

Grade IV strain

Typically, a Grade IV muscle strain requires surgical intervention because of the complete tear of the muscle or tendon. Depending on the severity of the strain, over-the-counter pain relievers may be used to manage the pain. In severe cases, however, a physician should be consulted. For a diagnosis of this condition, a doctor may order imaging studies to determine whether the muscle is torn or intact.

Grade V strain

A doctor will diagnose a muscle strain based on its severity. Typically, mild strains will heal on their own, while more severe cases may require surgery or a cast. In general, strains can be classified according to their degree, from Grade I to Grade V. The difference between Grade I and Grade V strains is the severity of the pain. Mild strains may be easily treated with rest, ice packs, compression bandage, and elevation. While the affected area will remain sore and swollen for up to two weeks, more severe strains may require surgery or a rehabilitation program.

Grade VI strain

The severity of a muscle strain varies with its grade. Grade I involves only a few damaged muscle fibers, while a moderate strain involves more. In the mild grade, the muscle is tender, but it still retains its strength. The pain associated with a grade II muscle strain is moderate. There may be bruising and limited range of motion, as well as pain when stretching or testing the strength of the affected muscle.