Does Spinal Decompression Work for a Herniated Disc? – La Jolla, CA

If you live in La Jolla and you’re searching “Does Spinal Decompression Work for a Herniated Disc? – La Jolla, CA”, you’re likely beyond the stage of “trying random stretches” and hoping it goes away. Most people searching that phrase have already tried PT, chiropractic, rest, medications, injections—or they’ve been told surgery is the next step.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC helps patients from La Jolla determine whether Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) is appropriate for their specific disc injury and nerve symptoms—based on objective findings and clinical response, not guesswork.

Why a Herniated Disc Can Keep Flaring Up

A herniated disc isn’t just “a sore back.” It’s often a mechanical problem where disc material shifts and irritates a nerve. That nerve irritation can show up as:

• Radiating pain into the leg or arm

• Tingling, numbness, burning, or pins-and-needles

• Pain that spikes with sitting, driving, or bending

• Night pain or interrupted sleep

• Reduced tolerance to workouts, walking, or even normal daily activity

Many patients are told it’s “just inflammation.” But when symptoms persist, there’s often ongoing disc pressure on the nerve—which is why relief can be temporary with treatments that don’t address the mechanical stress.

What Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Is Designed to Do

When patients ask, “Does Spinal Decompression Work for a Herniated Disc? – La Jolla, CA,” the real question is usually: Can decompression reduce the disc pressure enough to calm the nerve and allow healing to progress without surgery?

At Dr. Boelk’s clinic, decompression is performed using DRX9000 true spinal decompression, a computerized system designed to:

• Lower intradiscal pressure (pressure inside the disc)

• Encourage disc material to retract away from irritated nerves

• Improve disc hydration and nutrient exchange

• Apply forces gradually and precisely (not forceful pulling)

This matters because herniated disc cases vary. Disc level, severity (bulge vs protrusion vs extrusion), nerve involvement, and tolerance to loading all change what’s appropriate. The clinical goal is not “traction.” The goal is strategic decompression using the right machine, with the right settings, for the right candidate.

Real Patient Experiences With Disc & Nerve Pain Relief

“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: Even after a prior disc surgery and recurrent sciatic nerve pain, decompression-based care helped this patient regain function and return to normal daily life.

“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: With an MRI-confirmed extrusion compressing the L5 nerve and surgery/injections scheduled, this patient improved enough through decompression to avoid both and return to training.

“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: A customized decompression plan helped reduce severe sciatica symptoms associated with 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 exercise support helped restore activity tolerance and daily independence.

“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: Complex disc cases and persistent nerve symptoms often bring patients from out of the area—and even internationally—for specialized decompression care.

What Makes Decompression Results Vary From Clinic to Clinic

A big reason people keep searching “Does Spinal Decompression Work for a Herniated Disc? – La Jolla, CA” is because they’ve either:

• Tried traction elsewhere with no change, or

• Heard mixed opinions online, or

• Don’t know how to tell “real decompression” from basic pulling.

Key variables that influence outcomes include:

• Whether the patient is actually a decompression candidate

• Whether the clinic uses a true decompression system (DRX9000)

• Whether protocols are adjusted based on imaging + response

• Whether stabilization and corrective exercise are added when needed

NSSD is powerful, but it is still a passive therapy—and long-term results often depend on integrating the right active components so the spine doesn’t continue to overload the injured segment.

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 back or neck symptoms, it’s worth getting clarity on whether you’re a candidate for decompression.

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.