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Can a Bulging Disc Heal Without Surgery? – San Diego, CA

Can a Bulging Disc Heal Without Surgery? – San Diego, CA

If you’ve been diagnosed with a bulging disc, you’ve likely been told to “wait and see,” try injections, manage it with medication, or prepare yourself for surgery if things don’t improve. For many people in San Diego, that advice leads to months—or years—of lingering pain, limited mobility, and frustration.

The truth is this: many bulging discs can heal without surgery, but only when the right conditions are created inside the spine. Healing does not happen by chance. It happens when pressure is reduced, nerve irritation is addressed, and the spine is stabilized properly.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC focuses almost exclusively on Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) using the DRX9000, combined with targeted rehabilitation. This approach is designed to address the cause of disc pain—not just mask symptoms.

Why Bulging Discs Cause Persistent Pain

A bulging disc occurs when the outer fibers of the disc weaken, allowing it to protrude outward. While it may not be fully ruptured, it can still:

When this pressure remains, the disc struggles to heal on its own. Rest alone is rarely enough. Injections may calm inflammation temporarily, but they do not correct disc compression.

This is where properly applied spinal decompression becomes critical.

How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Helps Bulging Discs Heal

True spinal decompression is not traction.

Dr. Boelk exclusively uses the DRX9000, a computer-controlled decompression system that allows for:

  1. Precise unloading of the affected disc level

  2. Reduction of intradiscal pressure

  3. Improved hydration and nutrient exchange within the disc

  4. Decreased nerve compression and irritation

Each session is customized based on imaging, symptoms, and clinical findings. Decompression is then paired with active rehabilitation, because lasting results require more than passive care alone.

Real Patient Experiences with Bulging Discs 

“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

Summary: Anthony had already undergone surgery for a bulging disc and experienced a recurrence. Non-surgical decompression allowed him to regain function and avoid further invasive procedures.

“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

Summary: Lisa’s case highlights both the complexity of multiple disc bulges and the level of trust patients place in Dr. Boelk’s expertise—even traveling internationally for care.

“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

Summary: Amanda avoided both injections and surgery and returned to full physical activity after addressing disc compression properly.

“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

Summary: Brian’s case demonstrates how individualized decompression protocols matter when treating disc-related nerve pain.

“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

Summary: Kaitelyn’s outcome highlights the importance of combining decompression with education and active rehabilitation.

About Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC

Dr. Boelk also trains doctors nationwide in proper decompression protocols and case selection, further reinforcing his authority in this field.

Next Steps Toward Lasting Relief

If you’re dealing with a bulging disc and want to know whether it can heal without surgery, the next step is a proper evaluation.

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 see if you qualify for DRX9000 spinal decompression

  3. Bring your MRI or X-rays if available

  4. Review your findings with Dr. Boelk and discuss your options

👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.

Because availability is limited and many patients travel from out of state and overseas, appointments fill quickly. Securing your visit 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
🌐 www.SanDiegoBackCare.com

Referral Policy:
Whether referred by a medical doctor, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, chiropractor, physical therapist, massage therapist, attorney, or friend, all patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis to ensure Dr. Boelk has adequate time to determine candidacy for care.

Get Fast Pain Relief Now

Schedule a Complimentary, No-Charge, No-Obligation Consultation or to submit a question, simply fill out the form to the right and click submit.

(619) 298-0800