Does Spinal Decompression Work for a Herniated Disc? – San Diego, CA

If you’re searching “does spinal decompression work for a herniated disc,” you’re likely dealing with persistent back or nerve pain that hasn’t resolved with rest, physical therapy, medications, or injections. Many patients reach this point after being told surgery may be the next option—or after trying to avoid surgery for as long as possible.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC focuses almost exclusively on disc and nerve compression cases. Patients often seek care here to determine whether Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) may be an appropriate option for their specific herniated disc before committing to invasive procedures.

What Happens When a Disc Herniates

A herniated disc occurs when the inner material of the spinal disc pushes outward and places pressure on nearby nerves. Depending on the level and severity, this can cause:

• Low back or neck pain

• Sciatica or radiating arm pain

• Tingling, numbness, or burning

• Pain with sitting, bending, or driving

• Difficulty sleeping or exercising

While inflammation plays a role, ongoing mechanical pressure on the disc and nerve is often the primary reason symptoms persist.

Can Spinal Decompression Help a Herniated Disc?

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is designed to address disc pressure directly. At Dr. Boelk’s clinic, decompression is performed using DRX9000 true spinal decompression, a computerized system intended to:

• Reduce internal disc pressure

• Encourage disc material to retract away from nerves

• Improve disc hydration and nutrient exchange

• Do so gradually, without forceful manipulation

Unlike generic traction, DRX9000 protocols are customized based on MRI findings, neurological symptoms, spinal stability, and how the patient responds as care progresses.

Not every herniated disc case qualifies for decompression. Proper evaluation is 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, this patient experienced meaningful relief and a return to daily life through decompression-based care.

“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: Individualized 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 helped restore daily function and mobility.

Why Experience and Protocol Matter

Spinal decompression outcomes depend on:

• Proper diagnosis

• Appropriate case selection

• Correct machine and settings

• Ongoing clinical oversight

Dr. Boelk personally reviews imaging, evaluates neurological findings, and adjusts care based on patient response. Decompression is never applied as a one-size-fits-all solution.

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, early evaluation can help prevent further progression.

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 treatment options directly with Dr. Boelk

👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.

Because availability is limited and many patients travel from out of state and overseas, appointments are scheduled first-come, first-served.

📍 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 through friends or family, all patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. This ensures Dr. Boelk has the necessary time to personally evaluate whether a case is appropriate for Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression.