Table 3.
Pathoanatomical Changes Associated with Muscle and Tendon Injury: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Degree Strains
| 1st Degree | 2nd Degree | 3rd Degree | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree of Muscle Damage | Tear of a few muscle & tendon fibers | Tear of approximately half of the muscle fibers | Tear (rupture) of the entire muscle |
| Muscle Weakness | Minor | Moderate (significant) | Major |
| Loss of Function | None to minor | Moderate | Major |
| Pain | Minor | Moderate to Major | None (A lack of pain associated with 3rd degree strain because the nerve is often significantly damaged during the injury) |
| Swelling | Minimal to none | Noticeable degree of Swelling | Significant degree of Swelling |