Doctors grade muscle strains on a scale of one to four. Using this scale, a "grade three" means you tore many muscle fibers, including some of the supportive tissue around the muscle. Grades one and two mean that a minor or moderate amount of muscle fibers were torn. A grade four tear is a complete rupture of the muscle.

Most muscle strains heal pretty well with rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication. You may wrap the sore muscle and elevate it, too. The problem with grade three tears is that they usually take longer to heal than grade one or two tears. Also, complications such as muscle scarring can limit movement and muscle performance. That's why most experts suggest a physical therapy program to restore muscle flexibility and strength in patients with grade three muscle strains. You will also need to warm up well before playing sports. Be sure not to overdo it when you first go back to playing.