Workplace injuries to backs and necks are far too common, and a shoulder injury at work is no exception. Since, as a worker, you use your shoulders each time you lift or use your arms, shoulder injuries can cause excruciating pain, limit movement and restrict your ability to work. But there are Workers Comp laws in NSW that means you can claim benefits.

Seek Medical Treatment as Soon as Possible

Suppose you’ve suffered a shoulder injury at work or have pain in your shoulder joint. In that case, you should report it immediately to your manager, seek medical treatment for pain and then call PK Simpson expert compensation lawyers.

As a worker, you may be eligible to receive workers compensation benefits for work-related shoulder injuries. If your doctor believes you need time off work, they should issue you with a WorkCover certificate. Ask your doctor about a certificate if you are unsure of your worker entitlements.

What Should I Do if I Hurt My Shoulder at Work?

Suppose you suffer a fall and a shoulder injury at work or a shoulder dislocation occurs, or you have a shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tears, or pain from a dislocated shoulder or shoulder strain etc. In that case, you must report it immediately to your boss even if you believe as a worker that it’s a minor pain in your shoulder joints.

Under Workers’ Compensation law, you must seek independent medical or hospital treatment for pain and suffering as soon as possible for a workplace shoulder injury. At PK Simpson, we would advise you as an injured worker to seek legal help as soon as you can so you don’t have to wait for Worker’s Comp benefits and also because there are time limits on lodging claims.

How Much is a Work-Related Shoulder Injury Worth?

The amount of Workers’ Compensation or benefits you might receive if your claim for a shoulder injury at work is successful will depend entirely on the pain and severity of your injury, related shoulder pain, and how it affects your life and ability to work. Your doctor will have a solid record of your pain, injuries and treatment progress.

You may be eligible for substantial Workers’ Compensation benefits for shoulder injuries in the workplace or shoulder joint pain for any of the following:

  • Workers’ Compensation for your permanent loss of income, pain and suffering due to shoulder injuries and shoulder joint pain or if you need shoulder surgery
  • Disablement benefits for common shoulder injuries under your superannuation policy
  • A no-fault lump sum for permanent shoulder injuries

How Are Shoulders Injured at Work?

There are several ways a worker can suffer common shoulder injuries at work, or torn rotator cuff tendons, damaged ball and socket joints, frozen shoulder and many others, including:

  • Slips and falls

Employees in almost any workplace can sustain a slip and fall shoulder injury at work, including a torn rotator cuff or fractures that cause terrible shoulder pain and a dull ache that lingers.

  • Pushing and lifting

If a worker lifts, pushes or shoves heavy objects in the workplace and exerts themselves, they can suffer shoulder injuries and severe shoulder pain. Workers are prone to these shoulder injuries in factories, warehouses and construction sites and even offices.

  • Repetitive movements

Shoulder injuries in the workplace can develop through repetitive motion over time and result in limited movement and chronic shoulder pain. Along with factory workers, manual labourers and tradies, office workers, cashiers, and restaurant workers are at serious risk of this kind of shoulder injury.

  • Awkward positions

Working in awkward positions can cause shoulder injury and shoulder blade pain, or frozen shoulder. Plumbers, construction workers and roofers are prone to these injuries and shoulder pain.

  • Power tools and equipment

Using power tools and heavy machinery in the workplace can involve vibrations and repetitive motions that can cause a shoulder injury at work. Many construction and factory workers suffer shoulder pain from these types of shoulder injuries that may require surgery.

Should I Go to Work With Shoulder Pain?

Some employers who suffer shoulder pain from an injury at work feel anxious or guilty about making a Workers’ Compensation claim for benefits.

Despite the pain from shoulder dislocation or another injury, a worker might be concerned that claiming “compo” will harm their workplace reputation. They fear losing hours or even dismissal if the boss is unhappy about the claim.

You should know that there are legal remedies if your employer discriminates against you for claiming Workers Comp for a workplace shoulder injury or any injury at work.

Following your doctor’s advice about medical treatment and time off work to rest and heal will most likely be better for your shoulder pain or shoulder surgery. It may even mean you will be back at work sooner than later unless you are permanently impaired.

Remember, the law says if you’ve suffered a shoulder injury at work, you’re entitled to claim Workers’ Compensation benefits or a lump sum. Contact our expert Workers’ Compensation lawyers at PK Simpson if you have been injured at work to claim compensation.

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