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Return-to-play timelines depend on tissue healing biology, so grade 1 strains typically resolve in about two weeks while grade 3 tears take three months and surgical repairs six to nine. Recovered pain-free range of motion is used here to adjust the estimate, but real clearance should always be criteria-based rather than calendar-based.
Baseline timelines
grade 1 about 14 days, grade 2 about 42, grade 3 about 90, surgical about 210
Adjustment
scaled by pain-free range of motion regained
This is a general timeline estimate from published averages, not medical advice or a clearance decision. Return to play must be authorised by a qualified clinician after criteria-based testing. Timelines vary widely between individuals and injury sites.
Because healing rates vary widely. Strength symmetry, hop tests and sport-specific movement quality predict re-injury far better than elapsed days.
Returning before strength deficits have resolved. Even a 10% side-to-side deficit substantially raises re-injury rates.