Feeling overwhelmed by your shoulder injury and workers’ comp process? I’m Lennon Correia, and I’ve helped hundreds of workers like you recover and return to work safely. This guide explains what to expect and how physio can make your journey smoother.
What is Workers' Compensation for a shoulder injury?
Common workplace shoulder injuries that require surgery
What to expect after shoulder surgery?
How does physiotherapy help shoulder injury recovery?
Book with our senior physio team in Perth
FAQs: Workers' compensation for shoulder injury requiring surgery
If you've suffered a shoulder injury at work that requires surgery, you may be feeling overwhelmed by the pain, the paperwork, and the path to recovery. As a senior physiotherapist working closely with injured workers across Perth, I’ve helped many workers navigate the recovery process while also supporting them through their workers' compensation claims.
This guide will help you understand how physiotherapy plays a key role in your return to work.
Workers' compensation supports workers injured while performing their job. If your shoulder injury occurred at work, you may be eligible for compensation that covers:
You must report your injury to your employer and lodge a claim. In Western Australia, this process is managed by WorkCover WA.
These injuries often result from manual handling, repetitive overhead work, slips and falls, or workplace accidents.
Shoulder injuries occur commonly, and some of these may require surgery, which involves:
1. Sling (Post-Surgical Immobilisation)
You’ll likely wear a sling for 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of surgery.
2. Early Physiotherapy
We focus on reducing pain and swelling at the shoulder, maintaining neck, back and elbow mobility, and preventing stiff shoulders. We monitor for signs of injection and use of medications.
3. Strength and Mobility Rehab
We begin targeted shoulder mobility and strengthening exercises to restore function through our assessment and consultation with your medical professionals.
4. Work Conditioning and Return-to-Work Plan
We help you build back-to-work tasks in a safe, graded way that meets both your capacity and your job demands.
A tailored physiotherapy program can:
We work collaboratively with your entire healthcare team, workplace and insurer,
Recovery timelines vary depending on the type of surgery, but here’s a general guide:
Early physiotherapy and a structured return-to-work plan are essential.
If you're considering shoulder surgery or recovering from shoulder surgery due to a workplace injury:
Call us today to speak with our team, who is experienced in workers’ compensation recovery. We’ll help guide your next steps and get your rehab on track.
WA Health Group specialise in work injury rehabilitation, including complex shoulder cases. Our physios understand the demands of different job roles and can help guide your recovery every step of the way.
Book your free 15-minute health assessment, and let’s take the first step together. We’ll help you plan your workers' compensation physiotherapy and coordinate with your GP for a smooth recovery.
Do I need a referral to start physiotherapy under workers’ compensation?
Yes. We can schedule your appointments and coordinate with your GP and insurer.
Will physio be covered under workers’ comp?
Yes, once your claim is approved, rehabilitation costs are covered with prior approval from your insurer.
Can I choose my own physio?
Yes, you can choose your physiotherapy provider.
What if I’m not improving?
We’ll communicate regularly with your doctor and surgeon to adjust your treatment plan, return to work plan or further investigation as needed.
When can I go back to work?
Your physio and GP will work together to create a safe return-to-work plan based on your progress and job requirements.
How do I know if my shoulder injury qualifies for workers' compensation?
If your injury occurred at work or while performing work duties, it likely qualifies. Your GP or workplace health and safety officer can help you lodge a claim.
What documents do I need to bring to my physio appointment?
Bring your workers' compensation claim number, referral letter, and any relevant scans or post-op reports that can assist us.
What if I haven’t had surgery yet?
Physio helps reduce pain, improve shoulder function, and potentially delay or avoid the need for surgery altogether. We review your response to treatment every 6 weeks to ensure you have the right management for your condition.
Can I still do physio while waiting for surgery?
Yes. Pre-surgical physiotherapy (prehab) helps improve outcomes and speeds up post-op recovery.
How often do I need physio after shoulder surgery?
This varies depending on your injury and stage of recovery, but typically starts with 1–2 sessions per week, tapering as you improve and capacity improves.
Can I claim for travel to physio appointments?
In many cases, travel costs are reimbursable under workers’ compensation. Check with your insurer.
Need help with shoulder injury rehab through workers’ compensation? Book online in 60 seconds with our Perth physio team.