The length of time that sprains and strains take to heal varies according to the severity of the injury. The severity of both sprains and strains are classified in degrees, with first-degree indicating mild sprains or strains, second-degree indicating moderate sprains or strains, and third-degree indicating severe sprains or strains. A first-degree sprain or strain should heal and feel better within a few days to two weeks. With first-degree sprains or strains, the ligaments and muscles are stretched but not torn. A second-degree sprain or strain, wherein the ligaments and muscles are partially torn, should heal and feel normal within three to eight weeks. In contrast, a severe, third-degree sprain or strain, wherein the ligaments or muscles are completely torn, will likely take three months or more to heal fully and feel back to normal.