Understanding Workplace Injuries

Workplace injuries refer to physical or health-related conditions that occur as a result of duties performed on the job. These can be caused by accidents, repetitive movements, or exposure to hazardous conditions. Regardless of occupation, these injuries can impact an individual’s ability to work, move comfortably, and maintain a good quality of life.

Common Types of Workplace Injuries

• Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): Affect muscles, joints, tendons, and bones. Common examples include:
• Back pain
• Tendonitis
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Caused by repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, or poor posture
• Traumatic Injuries: Resulting from accidents involving tools or machinery, including:
• Cuts, bruises
• Fractures
• Crush injuries
• Amputations
• Respiratory Conditions: Often seen in occupations involving exposure to dust, chemicals, or fumes, such as:
• Occupational asthma
• Bronchitis
• Silicosis
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Occur from frequent, repetitive movements, particularly in:
• Office work (keyboard use)
• Assembly-line tasks
• Manual sorting or lifting

High-Risk Occupations

Certain industries have a higher likelihood of work-related injuries:

• Construction: Falls, equipment injuries, lifting heavy materials
• Healthcare: Patient handling, exposure to bodily fluids or infectious materials
• Warehousing and Manufacturing: Repetitive movements, use of machinery
• Office Environments: Poor ergonomics, prolonged sitting, repetitive tasks

Symptoms of Workplace Injuries

• Pain, stiffness, or swelling in muscles or joints
• Restricted movement or reduced flexibility
• Visible injuries such as bruises, cuts, or swelling
• Respiratory symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath (for exposure-related injuries)

Preventing Workplace Injuries

• Proper employee training and workplace safety programs
• Ergonomic assessments for desks, machinery, and tools
• Use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Routine inspections and hazard reporting

Understanding CTP Injuries (Compulsory Third Party)

CTP injuries are sustained in motor vehicle accidents and are covered under Compulsory Third Party insurance in Australia. These injuries can range from mild strains to serious trauma requiring long-term care and rehabilitation.

Common Types of CTP Injuries

• Whiplash: Neck strain from sudden back-and-forth movement
• Fractures and Dislocations: Often seen in high-impact collisions
• Spinal Injuries: Disc herniation or more severe spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Resulting from a direct or indirect impact to the head

CTP Injury Risk Factors

• Not wearing a seatbelt during a collision
• Motorcyclists or cyclists in accidents
• Pedestrians hit by vehicles
• High-speed or head-on collisions

Symptoms of CTP-Related Injuries

• Neck pain, reduced range of motion
• Headaches, dizziness, confusion
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in arms or legs
• Visible trauma: cuts, swelling, broken bones

Preventing CTP Injuries

• Always wear seat belts and helmets
• Drive at safe speeds and follow road rules
• Maintain your vehicle regularly
• Promote and participate in road safety education

Diagnosis and Treatment by Dr Bassam Moses

Comprehensive Diagnosis

Dr Bassam Moses conducts a thorough assessment of all workplace and CTP injuries, including:

• Medical History and Physical Examination: To understand the nature of the injury and its impact on daily function
• Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or ultrasounds to identify internal damage
• Functional Assessment: Evaluates how the injury affects movement, strength, and the ability to work
• Specialist Referrals: Collaboration with orthopaedic surgeons, neurologists, or rehabilitation experts when needed

Individualised Treatment Plans

Dr Moses offers evidence-based treatment tailored to the type and severity of the injury:

• Immediate Care: Wound cleaning, immobilisation (braces, splints), pain relief
• Medications: Pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics if infection is a concern
• Surgical Interventions: When necessary for fractures, soft tissue repair, or nerve damage
• Physical Therapy: Restores mobility, reduces pain, and strengthens injured areas
• Workplace Ergonomic Adjustments: Prevents recurrence of injury through posture correction and task modification
• Mental Health Support: Access to counselling and support services for anxiety, PTSD, or depression linked to injury

Consequences of Untreated Workplace or CTP Injuries

Failing to treat injuries early can lead to:

• Chronic pain and long-term disability
• Development of complications such as arthritis or infections
• Mental health issues including anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• Increased healthcare costs and prolonged time away from work
• Loss of income or ability to work full-time

Prompt treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent further deterioration.

Why Choose Dr Bassam Moses?

Dr Bassam Moses provides comprehensive medical care and rehabilitation for patients with workplace or motor vehicle injuries. His approach is:

• Thorough: Every diagnosis is based on detailed clinical assessment and imaging
• Personalised: Treatment is tailored to each patient’s occupation, injury type, and recovery goals
• Collaborative: Works with specialists, physiotherapists, and insurers to support recovery
• Supportive: Addresses not only physical injuries but also the emotional impact of trauma

Book a Consultation Today

If you have experienced a workplace or motor vehicle injury, early medical intervention is essential.

Contact Dr Bassam Moses to arrange a consultation and begin a tailored treatment and rehabilitation plan that supports your return to health, work, and everyday life.