How Physiotherapy Supports Your Recovery and Return to Work
It starts as a dull ache between your shoulder blades. Maybe you lifted something awkwardly, twisted too quickly, or spent one too many hours hunched at your desk. Before long, that nagging mid-back pain becomes a daily issue—making it harder to do your job, sleep comfortably, or even breathe deeply.
For many workers in trades, healthcare, warehousing, and office-based roles, thoracic spine injuries are a common but often overlooked challenge. Fortunately, physiotherapy can play a key role in recovery, particularly when accessed through WorkCover physiotherapy in Sunshine.
In this blog, we’ll explore how thoracic spine injuries occur at work, how physiotherapy can help, and what to expect from your WorkCover rehab journey at Your Story Physio.
Common Workplace Causes of Thoracic Spine Injuries
The thoracic spine is the section of your back between the base of your neck and the bottom of your ribs. It helps support your upper body and allows for rotation, extension, and stability.
Workplace-related injuries to this area often result from:
- Manual handling tasks, such as lifting or twisting under load
- Repetitive upper body movements common in trades or healthcare roles
- Falls, slips, or jarring incidents
- Poor ergonomics, especially in desk jobs with prolonged sitting and postural strain
Symptoms of a thoracic spine injury may include:
- Mid-back pain or stiffness
- Muscle tightness across the shoulder blades
- Difficulty with rotation or lifting movements
- Pain when breathing deeply or maintaining certain postures
Without the right support, these symptoms can worsen over time, impacting your ability to work or enjoy daily life.
How Physiotherapy Supports Recovery
Physiotherapy for thoracic spine injuries is not a one-size-fits-all solution. At Your Story Physio, we tailor your treatment to your job requirements, physical needs, and recovery goals.
Your physio rehabilitation plan may include:
- Manual therapy to reduce pain, release tight tissue, and improve joint mobility
- Targeted exercise programs to rebuild strength, restore range of motion, and support spinal alignment
- Education on posture, safe lifting techniques, and workplace ergonomics
- Functional rehab, focused on helping you return safely to work tasks and reduce the risk of reinjury
Early physiotherapy intervention has been shown to reduce recovery time and prevent chronic pain—making it a proactive step towards both short-term relief and long-term wellbeing.
What to Expect from WorkCover Physiotherapy
If you’ve injured your back at work, you may be eligible for WorkCover physiotherapy in Sunshine—a government-supported program that allows you to access rehab services without out-of-pocket expenses.
At Your Story Physio, we support you throughout the process by:
- Helping you understand and navigate the WorkCover system, including referrals and paperwork
- Offering same-day appointments when available to begin treatment quickly
- Communicating with your GP, insurer, and employer to ensure a safe and structured return to work
- Tailoring your rehab plan not just to your pain, but to your work tasks and lifestyle
- Providing direct billing to WorkCover to remove financial stress from your recovery
You can read more about the WorkCover physiotherapy process here on our service page.
Benefits of WorkCover Physiotherapy
Accessing physiotherapy through WorkCover doesn’t just help you heal—it ensures your recovery is practical, supported, and sustainable.
Key benefits include:
- Faster return to work through structured rehab and goal setting
- Reduced risk of chronic pain or long-term disability
- Personalised programs that reflect your injury, job demands, and physical capacity
- Holistic support—from physical treatment to administrative guidance
- A sense of empowerment, knowing you’re working with a team that puts your recovery and story at the centre
Physiotherapy has been shown to support outcomes for workplace-related spinal injuries by helping people build strength, manage symptoms, and return to their normal lives sooner.
Final Thoughts
Thoracic spine injuries from workplace accidents can be painful and frustrating—but with the right physiotherapy and support, recovery is absolutely possible. At Your Story Physio, we combine hands-on care, thoughtful education, and WorkCover know-how to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you’re a tradie, a carer, or a desk worker, our team is here to help you move better, feel stronger, and return to the work and life you love.
Book an appointment today, and one of our experienced physiotherapists will tailor a rehabilitation program to fit your needs.
