Bulging Disc Hitting Nerve – San Diego, CA

If you’ve been told you have a bulging disc hitting a nerve, or you’re dealing with sharp back pain, leg pain, numbness, or weakness that just won’t go away, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common reasons people search for relief — and one of the most misunderstood spinal conditions.

Many patients in San Diego arrive at our office after months (or years) of trying physical therapy, medications, injections, or even surgery consultations, only to feel frustrated that nothing has truly addressed the root cause.

The good news? In many cases, surgery is not necessary, and there are highly specific, non-surgical solutions that can help reduce disc pressure and calm irritated nerves — when done correctly.

What Does “Bulging Disc Hitting a Nerve” Really Mean?

Your spinal discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. When a disc begins to bulge outward, it can encroach on nearby nerve tissue, leading to symptoms such as:

• Sharp or deep low back pain

• Pain radiating into the buttock, hip, or leg

• Sciatic nerve pain

• Tingling, numbness, or burning sensations

• Weakness in the leg or foot

• Pain that worsens with sitting, bending, or prolonged activity

Many patients are surprised to learn that the pain they feel in their leg or hip often originates in the spine, not the extremity itself.

Why So Many Treatments Fail to Fix the Problem

Most conventional treatments focus on managing symptoms rather than reducing disc pressure:

• Medications may dull pain but do not change disc mechanics

• Injections reduce inflammation temporarily but don’t reposition the disc

• General traction often lacks precision and customization

• Surgery permanently alters the spine and carries real risks

Without addressing the mechanical compression affecting the disc and nerve, symptoms frequently return — sometimes worse than before.

How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Can Help

True spinal decompression is different from basic traction.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, we use FDA-cleared DRX9000 spinal decompression, which is designed to:

• Gently reduce pressure inside the disc

• Create a negative pressure environment that encourages disc material to retract

• Improve circulation and nutrient exchange to injured disc tissue

• Reduce nerve irritation without forcing or twisting the spine

Each session is precisely customized based on your MRI findings, symptoms, and response to care — because no two disc injuries are the same.

Why Experience and Precision Matter

Spinal decompression is not something you want done generically.

Improper settings, poor patient positioning, or cookie-cutter protocols can make symptoms worse or lead patients to believe “decompression didn’t work,” when in reality, it simply wasn’t done correctly.

Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC has spent nearly two decades specializing in complex disc and nerve cases and has personally overseen over 100,000 spinal decompression treatments. He also trains doctors nationwide in proper decompression protocols through the Spinal Decompression Training Academy.

That level of experience matters — especially when nerves are involved.

Real Patient Experiences

“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…
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… and I’ve even gotten back to lifting weights!”
— 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.”
— 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.”
— Kaitelyn H., San Diego, CA

Who Is (and Is Not) a Good Candidate?

Non-surgical spinal decompression can be highly effective, but it’s not appropriate for everyone.

That’s why Dr. Boelk performs a thorough evaluation, reviews imaging, and determines whether your case can be accepted before recommending care.

This protects patients — and ensures outcomes stay strong.

About Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC

• Board-Certified Doctor of Chiropractic
• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
• California X-Ray Radiology Licensed Doctor
• Member, International Disc Education Association
• Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy
• Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Treatments Performed
• 7 DRX9000 True Spinal Decompression Machines in One Clinic
• Largest Known Provider of Spinal Decompression in California
• Nearly 21 Years Specializing Exclusively in Decompression Care
• Rated #1 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Office in San Diego

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:

1. Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298 after hours.

2. Schedule your no-charge consultation to find out if you qualify for DRX9000 spinal decompression.

3. Bring your MRI or X-rays if available.

4. 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, so 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.