Dr. Alexandra J. Poelman is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Goderich Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre in Goderich, ON. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO). Dr. Poelman’s approach integrates comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, emphasizing spinal health and overall well-being. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized care tailored to individual needs and health goals.
With a strong foundation in evidence-based practice, Dr. Poelman completed her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Her extensive clinical experience is complemented by her dedication to ongoing professional development, ensuring that her treatments incorporate the latest advancements in chiropractic care. Her focus is on holistic health, understanding the vital connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall vitality, which allows her to address a wide array of health concerns effectively.
Dr. Poelman advocates for a holistic approach to health, empowering her patients through education about their conditions and proactive strategies for long-term wellness. She offers care in English and strives to foster a supportive environment where patients feel confident in their journey toward improved health and function.
Dr. Alexandra J. Poelman provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- Knee Pain (Osteoarthritis, Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - Conservative): Aching, sharp pain, or instability in the knee, commonly resulting from cartilage degeneration (osteoarthritis), issues with how the kneecap tracks (patellofemoral pain syndrome), or certain types of meniscal (cartilage) injuries suitable for conservative care.
- Ankle Sprains & Instability: Pain, swelling, and potential ongoing weakness or giving way in the ankle due to stretching or tearing of ankle ligaments, often from a twist or roll.
- Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain: Treatment for deep gluteal pain or piriformis syndrome, involving techniques to release the piriformis muscle and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.
- Hip Pain (Osteoarthritis, Bursitis, Tendinopathy): Chiropractic care focusing on improving hip joint mechanics, strengthening supporting muscles, and alleviating pain from conditions like osteoarthritis or trochanteric bursitis.
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Dizziness & Vertigo (Cervicogenic & BPPV Management): Assessment and treatment for dizziness originating from neck dysfunction, and management of BPPV symptoms using specific repositioning techniques where appropriate.
- TMJ / Jaw Pain (Temporomandibular Disorders - TMD): Addressing the biomechanical factors contributing to TMD, helping to alleviate muscle tension around the jaw and restore comfortable movement.
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Specialized care for whiplash injuries, focusing on restoring neck mobility, reducing pain and inflammation, and addressing associated neurological symptoms.
- Neck Pain (Acute & Chronic): Addressing the underlying causes of your neck pain, helping to alleviate muscle tension, improve joint function, and prevent future recurrences.
Back & Spine Conditions
- Low Back Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic): Helping you overcome lower back pain through targeted adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises to improve spinal mechanics.
- Spinal Stenosis (Cervical or Lumbar - Symptomatic): Narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness, often in the legs (lumbar) or arms (cervical).
- Mid-Back Pain (Thoracic Spine Pain / Interscapular Pain): Addressing the causes of thoracic spine pain, including joint dysfunction and muscular imbalances, to improve comfort and mobility.
- Rib Pain / Intercostal Neuralgia / Costochondritis: Addressing pain around the rib cage, often sharp or related to breathing/movement, potentially due to rib joint dysfunction, intercostal muscle/nerve irritation, or cartilage inflammation (costochondritis).
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Poelman can assess your needs.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Direct manual pressure to release 'knots' in muscles that can cause local and referred pain.
- Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Targeted soft tissue work to alleviate muscle tightness, break down adhesions, and restore fascial integrity.
- Graston Technique® / IASTM: Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) using specially designed stainless steel tools to detect and treat fascial restrictions, scar tissue, and chronic inflammation (practitioner certification dependent).
- Cross-Friction Massage: A specific deep transverse massage technique applied across affected tendons or ligaments to break down adhesions, reduce scar tissue, and promote an optimal healing environment.
- Active Release Techniques (ART®): Specialized manual therapy combining precise pressure with active patient movements to resolve soft tissue restrictions.
- Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise programs including stretching, strengthening, and stabilization exercises designed to support your recovery, prevent re-injury, and improve overall function.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Poelman. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.
All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO).
At Goderich Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Poelman frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- If a stiff and sore neck is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying looking forward to and enjoying long drives and scenic road trips again, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Alexandra focuses on achieving moving more freely and easily throughout their entire body so you can engage in the things you love again.
- Dr. Alexandra understands how frustrating that pinched nerve feeling shooting down my arm/leg can be. By aiming for better tolerance for physical activity without experiencing significant post-activity pain, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like enjoying your competitive tennis matches on Saturday mornings again with renewed confidence.
- Patients often share how coccyx pain after a fall affected their ability to engaging in detailed crafting, sewing, or knitting projects for longer periods. With Dr. Alexandra's help and a focus on increased flexibility throughout their spine, allowing for easier movement, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.
- Imagine being able to taking the stairs instead of the elevator without a persistent knot between my shoulders holding you back. Dr. Alexandra works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as enjoying less jaw pain and more comfortable chewing, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Poelman, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Dr. Poelman’s practice is located at the Goderich Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre, situated in a central neighborhood of Goderich. The clinic is conveniently positioned near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive healthcare in one location. It is accessible via local public transit routes, ensuring convenient transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in ON?
- In Ontario, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, meaning patients can book an appointment directly without a referral from a medical doctor. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes, so it is advisable to check the specifics of your individual insurance policy.
- What is that 'cracking' or 'popping' sound during an adjustment?
- That sound is a common and usually harmless phenomenon called joint cavitation. When a joint is gapped during an adjustment, the pressure inside the joint decreases, allowing dissolved gases in the joint fluid to form a bubble, which then quickly collapses, creating the 'pop'. It doesn't mean bones are cracking, and many effective adjustments occur without any sound at all.
- Do Chiropractors work with other healthcare professionals?
- Yes, Chiropractors often believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare. We frequently work with and refer to other healthcare professionals such as family physicians, physiotherapists, massage therapists, naturopathic doctors, and specialists when it is in the best interest of our patients to ensure comprehensive and optimal care.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- In Ontario, OHIP generally does not cover chiropractic services provided in private clinics for most of the population. There might be very limited exceptions through specific government programs or if care is delivered within a Community Health Centre or Family Health Team that has integrated chiropractic services, but this is rare. Patients are advised to check their private insurance coverage for reimbursement options.
- How can I tell if chiropractic care is right for me?
- If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or dysfunction related to your spine, muscles, joints, or nerves—such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, or extremity joint issues—chiropractic care may be very beneficial. Scheduling an initial consultation with Dr. Poelman will allow for a thorough assessment to determine if chiropractic treatment is appropriate or if another approach may be more suitable for your condition.
Goderich Chiropractic Health & Wellness Centre
145 Huron Road
Goderich, ON N7A 2Z7
Phone: (519) 440-5071
Dr. Alexandra J. Poelman is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and the Chiropractic Act, 1991 in ON and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO).
Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO): https://cco.ca.thentiacloud.net/webs/cco/register/?t=1#/registrant/all/all/all/all/all/all/7050/10/62d56ccac47ccb05dcc4815d
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.