Dr. Rachel L. Goldsworthy

Dr. Rachel L. Goldsworthy provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Back & Spine Conditions

• Mid-Back Pain (Thoracic Spine Pain / Interscapular Pain): Relief for pain located in the mid-back or between the shoulder blades, often linked to prolonged sitting, poor posture, or restricted rib movement.
• Facet Joint Syndrome / Facet Pain: Addressing inflammation and dysfunction in the facet joints to provide relief from specific types of spinal pain.
• Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction / Pain: Chiropractic care for SI joint pain, often involving adjustments and exercises to address underlying imbalances.

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Pain, aching, numbness, or other symptoms in the muscles, nerves, and tendons of the arm, wrist, or hand resulting from repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, or awkward postures.
• Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow (Epicondylitis): Pain and tenderness around the elbow joint due to overuse and inflammation of tendons, as well as muscular strain.

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain: Pain in the buttock region, which can sometimes radiate down the leg mimicking sciatica, often caused by spasm or tightness of the piriformis muscle irritating the nearby sciatic nerve.
• Plantar Fasciitis / Heel & Foot Pain: Relief from persistent heel pain and arch discomfort through a combination of manual therapies, exercises, and potentially orthotic advice.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Goldsworthy can assess your needs.

• Radiographic (X-ray) Imaging & Analysis: Diagnostic X-ray evaluation to aid in accurate diagnosis and ensure the safety and appropriateness of care.
• Comprehensive Chiropractic Examination: A thorough assessment including health history, postural analysis, spinal alignment checks, range of motion testing, orthopedic and neurological tests to determine the cause of your concern.
• Surface Electromyography (sEMG) Scan: Utilizing sEMG to objectively assess muscle function and patterns of tension around your spine.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Electrotherapy for pain relief and muscle relaxation.
• Postural Assessment & Correction Planning: Comprehensive postural evaluation with personalized strategies to improve alignment, reduce strain, and enhance overall spinal health.
• Functional Movement Screening (e.g., FMS™, SFMA™): Movement pattern analysis to understand how your body functions during common activities and sports.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Goldsworthy. 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 SOS Physiotherapy Northfield, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Goldsworthy frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dr. Rachel frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by coccyx pain after a fall. The common goal is accomplishing physical goals they once thought were out of reach, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, peacefully kayaking or canoeing on the lake for hours, with greater comfort and ease.
• If pain from repetitive movements at my work station is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying participating fully in your weekly adult soccer league game, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Rachel focuses on achieving a significant reduction in the severity and daily impact of TMJ symptoms so you can engage in the things you love again.
• Many individuals visit Dr. Rachel because they are tired of dealing with painful ribs when breathing deep or twisting. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve feeling a significant release of chronic tension and stress held in their body and get back to enjoying important activities like choosing to take the stairs instead of the elevator, just because you can.
• Experience the significant benefit of waking up feeling more rested and with less morning stiffness if you're dealing with my posture just feeling 'off' and uncomfortable. Dr. Rachel helps patients regain their ability to fully participate in activities like walking around the mall or shopping centers through focused and gentle chiropractic treatments.

Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Goldsworthy, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Dr. Goldsworthy’s practice is located at SOS Physiotherapy Northfield, situated in the vibrant University District of Waterloo. The clinic is conveniently positioned near the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, making it easily accessible for students, staff, and community members alike. The location is well-served by Grand River Transit (GRT), including bus routes and the ION Light Rail, ensuring a smooth commute. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

What is SOS Physiotherapy Northfield's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that life happens! However, to ensure we can accommodate all our patients, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments missed or cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to make changes.

What is chiropractic care and how can it help me?

Chiropractic is a healthcare profession focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, primarily the spine, and their effects on overall health. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation (adjustments) and other manual therapies, as well as exercise, and lifestyle counseling, to relieve pain, restore function, and support your body's natural ability to heal. It can help with issues like back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint problems in your arms or legs.

What is that 'cracking' or 'popping' sound during an adjustment?

The 'cracking' or 'popping' sound, technically called a cavitation, is thought to be caused by the release of gas (mainly nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) from the synovial fluid within a joint when it is stretched or moved quickly during an adjustment. It’s similar to the sound made when you crack your knuckles. The sound itself is not the goal of the adjustment and is not indicative of whether the treatment was effective; the primary aim is to restore proper joint motion and relieve nerve pressure.

Is chiropractic care covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

Generally, OHIP does not cover chiropractic services in private clinics for most residents. Some limited coverage may exist for specific populations or within certain programs, but patients should verify their private insurance benefits for coverage details.

Will I need to get X-rays before starting chiropractic care?

X-rays are not routinely required for every patient. Dr. Goldsworthy will conduct a thorough history and physical examination to determine if imaging is necessary. Usually, imaging is recommended to rule out serious conditions like fractures or significant spinal degeneration, especially if the patient's condition isn't improving as expected, always following established guidelines to minimize radiation exposure.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in ON?

Chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, so you can book an appointment directly without a referral. However, some private insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement purposes. It's best to check your individual policy for specific requirements.

SOS Physiotherapy Northfield
595 Parkside Dr Unit 5
Waterloo, ON N2L 0C7

Phone: (519) 888-7070

Dr. Rachel L. Goldsworthy 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/6570/10/5f46532741764a059ff276c1

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.