Back & Neck Degenerative Disc Disease Pain Relief in La Jolla, CA
Chronic neck or back pain can disrupt your work, your sleep, and your ability to enjoy life. For many in La Jolla, the root problem is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) — a condition where the discs in your spine lose their ability to cushion and protect the vertebrae.
The result? Pain that radiates from the spine into the shoulders, arms, or hands in the case of the neck, or into the hips and legs in the case of the low back.
The important truth is that most cases of DDD can be treated without surgery. At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy Boelk DC has dedicated nearly 20 years to helping patients avoid unnecessary procedures through Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) and individualized care programs.
What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?
DDD occurs as spinal discs lose hydration and elasticity. This causes the discs to shrink, tear, or collapse, placing pressure on nerves and reducing mobility.
Cervical (Neck) DDD Symptoms:
- Chronic stiffness or soreness in the neck
- Headaches caused by spinal compression
- Pain radiating into the shoulders, arms, or hands
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the upper limbs
Lumbar (Low Back) DDD Symptoms:
- Stiffness or aching in the lower back
- Radiating pain into the hips, buttocks, or legs
- Sciatica with tingling or numbness
- Pain worse after sitting or lifting
Left untreated, these symptoms can escalate, leading to chronic limitations and reduced quality of life.
How NSSD Provides Relief
Unlike medication or injections that only mask pain, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression with the DRX9000 addresses the root issue:
- Reduces disc pressure by creating negative pressure
- Draws bulging disc material back into position
- Restores hydration and nutrient flow for natural healing
- Relieves nerve compression and inflammation
"Came to this office with a serious back pain. Was not able to walk for more than 5 minutes. After just 8 sessions I can now walk with minimal pain for as long as I want. Many thanks to Dr Boelk and office staff." — Ken Pogrebinsky
Not All “Decompression” Is True Decompression
Many patients in La Jolla have tried what they were told was spinal decompression, only to learn it was actually traction or inversion therapy.
- Traction: Applies general force without precision, results often fade.
- Inversion Tables: Gravity-based stretching, temporary relief only.
- True NSSD with DRX9000: Customized, computer-controlled, based on MRI findings. Supported by clinical studies at Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Duke, and Mayo Clinic.
"I have had a wonderful experience with Dr. Boelk and his staff. I’ve been to other places with sub par machines and didn’t get any benefit. With the DRX9000, after 12 sessions my sciatica is gone and I’m almost back to normal. Even after the first session I had tremendous relief." — Michael Langsdale
Active + Passive Care: The Complete Approach
NSSD is powerful, but long-term relief requires more than a passive therapy. That’s why Dr. Boelk integrates active therapy into every plan.
- Passive Care: NSSD, targeted treatments to decompress the spine.
- Active Care: Rehab, stabilization, and postural corrections that prevent relapse.
"I had been suffering from back pain for months, unable to sleep and unable to play sports. After treatment with Dr. Boelk, I was back on the ice playing hockey and living my life again. He gave me my life back." — Jayson Yavorsky
Who Qualifies for NSSD?
Not every patient with DDD is an ideal candidate. During your no-charge consultation, Dr. Boelk evaluates:
- MRI and medical history
- Severity of disc degeneration
- Your daily activities and goals
- Whether NSSD is the safest and best fit
If you’re not a candidate, you’ll be referred to the right specialist. This transparency is one reason patients trust his care.
Why La Jolla Patients Choose Dr. Boelk
- Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
- Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
- Nearly 20 years of experience avoiding unnecessary surgeries
- Over 65,000 decompression sessions performed
- Founder of the Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Training Academy
- Patients travel from across the U.S. and internationally to see him
- Only clinic in San Diego with seven DRX9000 decompression machines
- #1 rated spinal decompression clinic in San Diego
- #1 rated spinal decompression doctor in San Diego
"Dr Boelk is the most compassionate and knowledgeable doctor. His use of the DRX9000 eliminated all my neck and back pain. I no longer need spine surgery, and I no longer take pain medication. His treatments saved my life."— Cliff Gonshery
At-Home Habits That Support Recovery
Patients can extend their results at home by:
- Walking daily to promote disc hydration
- Avoiding prolonged sitting, especially on couches or toilets
- Drinking plenty of water to keep discs hydrated
- Using proper posture when working or lifting
- Practicing stability exercises recommended during care
These steps, combined with proper in-office care, build long-term success.
Referral Policy
Patients often come through referrals from neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, chiropractors, and physical therapists. However, all patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure Dr. Boelk has adequate time to evaluate whether care is appropriate.
Act Now – Limited Availability
Appointments at our Kearny Mesa office fill quickly, with many La Jolla residents and even international patients seeking care here. Dr. Boelk only accepts cases he believes he can truly help, so availability is limited.
Schedule Your No-Charge Consultation Today
The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
📍 5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92123
📞 Office: 619-298-0800 | Cell: 619-884-8298
🌐 www.SanDiegoBackCare.com