Does Spinal Decompression Work for a Herniated Disc? – Kearny Mesa, CA

If you’re in Kearny Mesa and searching whether spinal decompression works for a herniated disc, you’re likely dealing with ongoing back or nerve pain that hasn’t resolved with standard care. Many patients reach this point after physical therapy, chiropractic care, medications, or injections fail to provide lasting improvement—and surgery begins to feel like the only remaining option.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located in Kearny Mesa, Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC evaluates patients with disc-related pain to determine whether Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) may be an appropriate alternative before considering invasive procedures.

Why Herniated Discs Continue to Cause Pain

A herniated disc occurs when the inner portion of the disc migrates outward and irritates nearby nerve tissue. This often leads to symptoms such as:

• Radiating leg or arm pain

• Burning, tingling, or numbness

• Pain that worsens with sitting or driving

• Difficulty sleeping or exercising

• Weakness or instability

While inflammation may contribute to discomfort, persistent symptoms are commonly driven by ongoing mechanical disc pressure. When that pressure is not addressed, pain often becomes chronic.

How Spinal Decompression Is Designed to Help Herniated Discs

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression focuses on reducing stress within the injured disc itself. At the Kearny Mesa clinic, decompression is delivered using DRX9000 true spinal decompression, a computerized system designed to:

• Lower pressure inside the disc

• Encourage disc material to retract away from irritated nerves

• Improve disc hydration and nutrient exchange

• Apply treatment gradually and safely, without forceful manipulation

Unlike basic traction, DRX9000 protocols are adjusted throughout care based on MRI findings, neurological symptoms, spinal stability, and patient response.

Not all herniated disc cases qualify. Proper examination and imaging review are essential.

Real Patient Experiences With Herniated Disc & Decompression Care

“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: After prior surgery and recurrent disc-related sciatica, decompression helped this patient return to normal daily activities.

“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: Patients with complex disc conditions often travel internationally to receive specialized decompression 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: After being scheduled for injections and surgical evaluation, decompression allowed this patient to avoid invasive care and return to high-level physical activity.

“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: Customized decompression protocols helped address severe sciatica caused by disc herniation.

“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: Decompression combined with guidance and stabilization restored mobility and independence.

Why Experience and Case Selection Matter

Spinal decompression outcomes depend on:

• Accurate diagnosis

• Appropriate case selection

• Correct machine and settings

• Ongoing clinical oversight

Dr. Boelk personally evaluates each case, reviews imaging, and determines whether decompression is appropriate before accepting care.

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 disc pain or nerve compression is limiting your life, early evaluation can make a meaningful difference.

To get started:

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

2. Schedule a no-charge consultation to determine candidacy

3. Bring MRI or X-rays if available

4. Review findings and options directly with Dr. Boelk

👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.

Because availability is limited and many patients travel for care, appointments are scheduled first-come, first-served.

📍 The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
Kearny Mesa, 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 by friends or family, all patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. This ensures Dr. Boelk has adequate time to personally evaluate candidacy for Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression.