25-year-old Chadwick who was linked with a move to Gresty Road at the start of the season, was set to join on loan but the prospect of a hernia operation has scuppered this.
The former Everton player has made a handfull of starts this season netting twice for the Pilgrims but boss Ian Holloway had given the green light for his loan move before Chadwick reported to the treatment room.
With another setback for the Railwaymen in their search for a striker, Shuan Miller looks set for a recall and will partner loan player Simon Church for the away trip to Cheltenham.