Best Non-Surgical Treatment for a Herniated Disc – La Jolla, CA
Herniated disc pain can be disruptive, exhausting, and often frightening—especially when it begins to interfere with work, exercise, sleep, and daily life. Many people in La Jolla are told that injections or surgery are the only remaining options, even when they are searching for a safer, non-invasive approach.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located just minutes from La Jolla, we specialize in helping patients with herniated discs relieve pain without surgery using advanced Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) and individualized treatment protocols.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
A herniated disc occurs when the inner, gel-like portion of a spinal disc pushes through the outer disc wall. When this happens, nearby nerves may become irritated or compressed, leading to symptoms such as:
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Low back or neck pain
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Radiating leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain
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Numbness or tingling
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Muscle weakness
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Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged standing
While some minor disc injuries may improve on their own, many herniated discs remain painful because the disc stays compressed and cannot heal properly.
Why Many Herniated Disc Treatments Fall Short
Traditional approaches often focus on managing symptoms rather than addressing the disc itself:
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Pain medications may reduce discomfort but do not improve disc health
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Epidural injections may temporarily reduce inflammation
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General traction lacks precision and consistency
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Surgery carries risks and is often unnecessary
If disc pressure is not reduced in a controlled, targeted way, lasting improvement is difficult to achieve.
How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Helps
True Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression works by gently reducing pressure inside the damaged disc. When performed correctly, decompression can:
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Reduce pressure on compressed spinal nerves
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Improve disc hydration and nutrient exchange
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Encourage retraction of herniated disc material
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Decrease inflammation around irritated nerves
This creates the conditions necessary for the disc to begin healing naturally—without surgery.
Why We Use Only the DRX9000
Not all spinal decompression systems are the same. Our clinic uses only DRX9000 True Spinal Decompression machines, which are FDA-cleared and computer-controlled for precision.
The DRX9000 allows us to:
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Customize treatment based on MRI findings
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Avoid muscle guarding through smooth decompression cycles
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Treat both lumbar and cervical disc conditions
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Adjust protocols as healing progresses
With 7 DRX9000 machines in one clinic, we are recognized as the largest known provider of spinal decompression in California.
Clinical application of true spinal decompression—when delivered using proper protocols—has been supported through research associated with institutions such as Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, Duke Medical Center, and Mayo Clinic.
A Full-Body Approach to Lasting Results
Spinal decompression is a powerful passive therapy, but long-term success requires more than decompression alone.
Dr. Boelk integrates:
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Targeted mobility work
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Stability and strengthening exercises
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Postural and movement correction
This comprehensive approach helps patients from La Jolla maintain results and reduce the risk of recurring disc problems.
About Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC
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Board-Certified Doctor of Chiropractic
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Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
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Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
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California X-Ray Radiology Licensed Doctor
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Member, International Disc Education Association
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Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy
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Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Treatments Performed
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7 DRX9000 True Spinal Decompression Machines in One Clinic
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Largest Known Provider of Spinal Decompression in California
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Nearly 21 Years Specializing Exclusively in Decompression Care
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Rated #1 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Office in San Diego
Dr. Boelk also trains doctors nationwide in proper Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression protocols. Patients routinely travel from out of state and internationally—including the UK, Mexico, and Spain—to receive care.
Real Patient Testimonials
“I have been dealing with back pain for several years. It got so bad that I had surgery 5 years ago for a bulging disc. About 5 months ago the disc bulged again hitting my sciatic nerve creating pain in my legs that made me want to cry it hurt so bad. After trying so many other options I was fortunate enough to find the spinal decompression and chiropractic center of San Diego. After just a few sessions I noticed a difference. Now after being there for the past few months I'm able to go about my normal life again.
What a blessing it was to find a Dr that genuinely cares and knows how to help people in my situation. Thank you Dr Boelk!”
— Anthony K., San Diego, CA
“I travel from the UK to see Dr Boelk and his wonderful team . I have 3 bulging disc and one is touching the nerve. I have the spinal decompression treatment and it really helps keep me in my active life . I will not go to anyone else for back treatment, this place is number one and they genuinely care about their patients.”
— Lisa S., United Kingdom
“Last year, I spent three months constantly going back and forth between doctor’s appointments and urgent care. The pain was unbearable—I was taking medication regularly just to get through the day. Getting out of bed was excruciating, and walking or standing felt like torture. Every step filled me with dread.
In December, my doctor finally ordered an MRI. That’s when I learned I had an extruded disc pressing on my L5 nerve, which affects the leg and foot. My doctor scheduled two follow-up appointments: one for pain management (spinal injections), and another to evaluate me for surgery.
Then I discovered spinal decompression therapy. I was thrilled to find a non-invasive alternative. I never ended up needing either of those appointments.
Now, I’m walking regularly, standing up straight—something I couldn’t do before. When I first sought help, I was so hunched over that I had to use a cane just to move forward. Because of the pain, I hadn’t exercised in months. But now, I’m doing a program called 75 hard which requires not one but 2 45-minute workouts per day, and I've even gotten back to lifting weights!
I’m so thankful I found this place. It’s conveniently located near my work, which makes it easy to fit sessions into my lunch break. Dr. Boelk and the staff are incredibly friendly and polite—it’s always a pleasure to come in.
The environment is so relaxing that I look forward to each visit. I truly thank God for leading me to this alternative. It’s made such a difference in my life.”
— Amanda, San Diego, CA
“I highly recommend Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC and the team at The Spinal Decompression and Chiropractic Center. I came in with severe sciatica and a herniated disc, and his treatments have made a world of difference. He and his staff are both professional and genuinely caring, creating a welcoming and supportive environment. The treatments were not only highly effective but also tailored to my specific needs. I’m grateful for the care I received and the significant improvement in my quality of life.”
— Brian Perrotta, San Diego, CA
“The care I received at Dr. Boelk’s office was so wonderful. I went from having to lay down for several hours a day, to being able to live my life normally, and even began working up my exercise capacity. I always felt cared about, and there was a lot of feedback. The exercise and information Dr. Boelk provides is so critical to maintaining positive results and pain reduction with increased mobility and freedom. All the staff are so caring, and it’s one of the best decisions I made for my back!”
— Kaitelyn H., San Diego, CA
Next Steps Toward Relief Near La Jolla
If you’re dealing with herniated disc pain, nerve compression, or chronic neck or back issues, early action matters.
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Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298 after hours
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Schedule your no-charge consultation
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Bring MRI or X-rays if available
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Review your findings and options directly with Dr. Boelk
👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.
📍 The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123 (near La Jolla)
📞 Office: (619) 298-0800
📱 Text Line: (619) 884-8298
🌐 www.SanDiegoBackCare.com
Referral Policy
Whether referred by a medical doctor, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, chiropractor, physical therapist, massage therapist, attorney, or through a friend or family member, all patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.
This ensures Dr. Boelk has adequate time to personally evaluate whether you’re a candidate for Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression and whether your case can be accepted for care.