Dr. Bruce Baker , an orthopaedic surgeon in Syracuse, New York, has provided his expert opinion on this topic. A sprain by definition is an injury to a ligament while a strain involves injury to musculotendonous unit. The degree of injury and the location of the injury are important in determining what therapy is most appropriate. Soft tissue injuries can be classified as first, second or third degree.
First degree are mild or minimal injuries.
Second degree injuries are moderate and involve partial tearing of a ligament or musculotendonous unit. The most severe injuries, involving the complete disruption of the ligament or musculotendonous unit, are classified as third degree injuries. Initial therapy should include elevation and ice, an addition to assessment of the injury. The use of crutches or an arm sling may be indicated to immobilize the affected area. In some cases, third degree injuries require surgery.