A rotator cuff contusion is a type of injury that affects the rotator cuff, which is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint and keep the head of the upper arm bone firmly within the shallow socket of the shoulder. A contusion is a bruise that occurs when a direct blow or trauma causes bleeding and swelling in the affected area. In the case of a rotator cuff contusion, the injury can cause pain, weakness, and reduced range of motion in the shoulder.

According to a study of professional football players, rotator cuff contusions accounted for nearly half of all shoulder injuries. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to diagnose and grade the severity of the injury. Treatment for a rotator cuff contusion may include rest, ice, pain relievers, and physical therapy exercises to strengthen the shoulder and improve movement.