Best Non-Surgical Treatment for a Herniated Disc – San Diego, CA
Living with a herniated disc can be exhausting and frightening. Persistent back pain, sharp leg pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness often interfere with work, exercise, sleep, and daily life. Many people are told surgery or injections are their only options—even when they want a safer, more conservative solution.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, we specialize in helping patients with herniated discs relieve pain without surgery using advanced, evidence-based Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) 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. This can place pressure on nearby nerves, leading to:
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Low back or neck pain
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Sciatica or arm pain
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Burning, tingling, or numbness
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Muscle weakness
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Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or standing
While some mild cases may improve with time, many herniated discs persist or worsen because the disc itself remains compressed and dehydrated.
Why Traditional Treatments Often Fall Short
Many common treatments focus on managing symptoms rather than correcting the root problem:
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Pain medications mask discomfort but do not reduce disc pressure
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Injections may calm inflammation temporarily without restoring disc health
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General traction lacks precision and consistency
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Surgery carries risks and is not always necessary or successful
To truly address a herniated disc, pressure must be safely reduced within the disc so healing can occur.
Why Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Works
True Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is different from basic traction. When performed correctly, it creates a gentle negative pressure inside the disc, which helps:
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Reduce pressure on spinal nerves
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Improve disc hydration and nutrient exchange
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Encourage retraction of the herniated disc material
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Decrease inflammation around irritated nerves
This process gives the body a chance to heal naturally—without drugs or surgery.
Why We Use Only the DRX9000
Not all decompression machines are created equal. Our clinic exclusively uses DRX9000 True Spinal Decompression systems because they allow for:
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Computer-controlled, FDA-cleared decompression protocols
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Precise force adjustments based on MRI findings
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Smooth cycles that prevent muscle guarding
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Both lumbar and cervical disc treatment
Our clinic houses 7 DRX9000 machines, making us the largest known provider of spinal decompression in California.
Research and clinical use of true spinal decompression has been supported by leading institutions, including Stanford University, Johns Hopkins University, Duke Medical Center, and Mayo Clinic, when performed using proper protocols and patient selection.
A Complete Approach—Not Just a Machine
Decompression is a powerful passive therapy, but long-term results require more than lying on a table.
Dr. Boelk integrates:
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Customized decompression protocols
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Targeted mobility work
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Stability and strengthening exercises
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Postural and movement correction
This combined approach helps prevent relapse and supports lasting relief—especially for patients who want to stay active.
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 and techniques. Patients routinely travel from across California, other states, and overseas—including the UK, Mexico, Spain, and Canada—to seek his expertise.
Real Patient Success Stories
“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. 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 never ended up needing either of those appointments.
Now, I’m walking regularly, standing up straight, exercising again, and even lifting weights. Dr. Boelk and the staff are incredibly friendly, professional, and supportive. 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. The care was professional, personalized, and incredibly effective.”
— 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 work back into exercise. The guidance and care provided were critical to maintaining results and freedom from pain.”
— Kaitelyn H., San Diego, CA
Next Steps Toward Lasting Relief
If you’re dealing with disc pain, nerve compression, or chronic neck or back issues, now is the time to take action before your condition becomes harder to correct.
Here’s how to get started:
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Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298 after hours.
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Schedule your no-charge consultation to find out if you qualify for DRX9000 spinal decompression.
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Bring your MRI or X-rays if available.
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Review your exam findings with Dr. Boelk and learn about your treatment options so you can make an informed decision.
👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.
Because availability is limited and many patients travel in from out of state and overseas, appointments fill quickly. Securing your spot early ensures timely evaluation and care.
📍 The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123
📞 Office: (619) 298-0800
📱 Text Line: (619) 884-8298
🌐 Website: www.SanDiegoBackCare.com
Referral Policy
Whether you were 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 the necessary time to personally evaluate whether you’re a candidate for Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression and whether your case can be accepted for care.