Can I Claim WorkCover for a Shoulder Injury?

June 16, 2026

Yes. If you suffer a shoulder injury because of your work duties, you may be entitled to make a WorkCover claim. Shoulder injuries are among the most common workplace injuries in Queensland and often occur gradually through repetitive work or suddenly following an incident at work. Depending on the circumstances, some workers may also have rights through a workplace injury claim.

What Workplace Activities Commonly Cause Shoulder Injuries?

Shoulder injuries can develop in many different occupations and work environments.

Common causes include:

  • Repetitive lifting
  • Working above shoulder height
  • Carrying heavy objects
  • Repetitive manual handling
  • Falls at work
  • Sudden twisting movements
  • Vehicle accidents while performing work duties

Industries such as construction, healthcare, warehousing, manufacturing and transport frequently see shoulder-related injuries.

What Types of Shoulder Injuries Can Occur at Work?

Workplace shoulder injuries may include:

  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Shoulder impingement syndrome
  • Bursitis
  • Tendon injuries
  • Labral tears
  • Dislocations

Some injuries occur suddenly, while others develop gradually over months or years of repetitive work.

What Should I Do After a Workplace Shoulder Injury?

If you believe your shoulder injury is work-related:

  1. Report the injury to your employer.
  2. Seek medical treatment as soon as possible.
  3. Obtain a medical certificate.
  4. Keep records of symptoms and treatment.
  5. Lodge a WorkCover claim if appropriate.

Early treatment may assist recovery and help document the injury.

Can a Shoulder Injury Get Worse Over Time?

Yes.

Many shoulder injuries initially present as mild discomfort before progressing into significant pain, weakness or reduced mobility. Workers should seek medical advice promptly if symptoms persist or worsen.

For information about injuries that deteriorate after the initial incident, see:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I claim WorkCover for a torn rotator cuff?

Potentially. If the injury arose out of, or in the course of, your employment, you may be entitled to make a claim.

What if my shoulder injury developed gradually?

Many workplace injuries develop over time rather than from a single incident. Medical evidence is often important in establishing the cause of the condition.

Related Information

External Resources:

Kathryn MacDonell

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Kathryn is Trilby Misso’s Chief Executive Officer.

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