FAQ -Shoulder Injury at work

What should I do after injuring my shoulder at work?

If you experience a shoulder injury at work, it's important to report the incident to your supervisor immediately and seek medical attention. Your employer may have a scheme in place for early physiotherapy intervention to help your recover. They may also have a preferred GP that they would like you to see. Your doctor may issue a Work Capacity Certificate, which is essential for lodging a workers’ compensation claim in Queensland.

Should I report a minor shoulder injury?

Yes. Even minor shoulder pain after a work accident can develop into a serious condition. Early reporting ensures your injury is documented and protects your right to claim WorkCover QLD shoulder injury compensation. Even though you might not want to make a claim now, this enables the option in the future.

What happens at the GP appointment after a workplace shoulder injury?

When you attend a GP appointment for a workplace shoulder injury, your doctor will assess the nature and severity of your injury. This includes:

• Reviewing how the injury occurred

• Conducting a physical examination of your shoulder

• Asking about your symptoms, pain level, and mobility

• Determining your work capacity—whether you can return to work, need modified duties, or require time off

• Completing a Work Capacity Certificate, which is required for your WorkCover Queensland claim. You will need to lodge the claim with Workcover QLD to get the claim up and running.

What should I prepare before visiting my GP?

To ensure your appointment goes smoothly and supports your claim, bring:

• A clear description of how the injury happened (e.g. lifting, repetitive strain, fall)

• The date and time of the incident

• Any photos or documentation from the workplace (if available)

• Your employer’s details and policy number (if known)

• A list of symptoms and how they’ve progressed

• Any previous medical history related to shoulder injuries

• Questions about treatment options or rehabilitation plans

Your GP may also discuss rehabilitation support, such as physiotherapy or referrals to specialists, depending on the severity of your shoulder injury.

Can I choose my own doctor or physio?

Yes. You are entitled to see your own GP for assessment and treatment of your shoulder injury caused by work. You do not need to visit a company-appointed doctor. You can also choose your own physiotherapist. Often your GP will recommend a physiotherapist that they have a working relationship with. This helps ensure smooth communications and enhances patient outcomes. However, it is more important that you feel comfortable that your Physiotherapist has the experience to effectively treat your injury.

Are work cover injuries bulk billed?

At Restorativ Physiotherapy there are no out of pocket costs if you have a valid claim. Treatment costs and any other incidentals you require will be bulk billed to WorkCover QLD. To help expedite your recovery we are also happy to treat you while your claim is pending without taking payment. However, if the claim is declined, you will be responsible for any treatment costs before the 5th treatment.

How do I submit a claim for a workplace shoulder injury to WorkCover QLD?

Once you have spoken to your employer and seen your GP, you can report your workplace shoulder injury by:

• Calling 1300 362 128

• Using the online form at WorkCover Queensland

• Submitting a paper injury report form

What is a Work Capacity Certificate?

A Work Capacity Certificate outlines your ability to work, confirms your diagnosis and the proposed treatment. It also helps WorkCover QLD assess your claim and plan your recovery. It is critical that you keep your work capacity certificate up to date. If it expires the claim will become invalid and you may be liable for any treatment costs

What are common shoulder injuries at work?

The type of shoulder injury will often be impacted by the type of work you undertake. The most common injuries we see are Rotator cuff tears and repairs, shoulder impingements, dislocations, frozen shoulder, repetitive strain injuries from lifting or awkward movements. At our clinic, Rob Marshall is the preferred Physiotherapist for a number of shoulder surgeons in the Northern Gold Coast.

Am I eligible for workers’ compensation?

You may be eligible if the shoulder injury occurred during work-related duties and you report the injury promptly. Your job will need to have contributed or caused the injury.

What benefits are included in my claim?

If your claim is accepted, you may receive medical treatment costs, wage replacement, rehabilitation support and a lump sum payment if you have permanent impairment as a result of the injury.

What happens after I lodge a claim?

WorkCover Queensland will assess your claim and you will be notified of the outcome. It can take a week or so for the claim to be processed and approved. It is important that you submit any required documents or information as quickly as possible to ensure your claim is approved quickly.

Do you accept patients covered by WorkCover from other states?

Yes, we treat patients whose workplace injury claims are managed by interstate WorkCover insurers, such as WorkSafe Victoria or icare NSW. As long as your claim is approved and you have a valid referral, we can provide care and bill your insurer directly. Our team is experienced in coordinating treatment across state systems.

Do you have experience treating workplace injuries?

Yes, at Restorativ Physiotherapy we have extensive experience treating a wide range of workplace injuries across Pimpama, Coomera, Ormeau and the surrounding suburbs. Our experienced team specialises in musculoskeletal conditions, including shoulder injuries, repetitive strain, and postural-related pain. We work closely with WorkCover and other insurers to support recovery through tailored treatment plans, including physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and return-to-work programs.

Each patient is assigned one primary physiotherapist to manage their treatment. This ensures coordinated care and consistent communication with your GP, WorkCover Queensland, and any other involved parties throughout your recovery. We pride ourselves on building relationships with patients to help ensure the best possible outcomes.

Should I seek legal advice?

It can be helpful to seek legal advice if the claim is complex, you’re unsure about your entitlements, you are facing challenges from your employer