Your Guide to Shoulder Pain Therapy in Newport: Rotator Cuff Tear vs Frozen Shoulder

Most people can tolerate pain or stiffness in their shoulder for a few days, but when it persists, worsens and begins to interfere with their daily life, they quickly seek answers. At Newport Physio and Health, we specialise in shoulder pain therapy. We help you understand what’s causing the problem, how to restore movement, reduce pain and move freely again. The first step to a successful recovery is identifying the cause of your pain and stiffness—whether it’s a rotator cuff tear or a frozen shoulder.

What is a Rotator Cuff Tear?

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise and move your shoulder joint. A rotator cuff tear occurs when one of these tendons is damaged, either through injury, overuse, or age-related wear and tear. Symptoms often include sharp or aching pain when lifting or reaching, weakness, and difficulty performing overhead movements. Some people also experience a catching or clicking sensation when moving their arm.

What is a Frozen Shoulder?

A frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, resulting in stiffness and pain. It often begins with pain, gradually leading to increasing stiffness that makes moving your shoulder and arm more difficult over time. Many people find that even simple activities, such as brushing their hair or reaching into cupboards, become nearly impossible. Unlike a torn rotator cuff, the pain from a frozen shoulder is often constant, even at rest.