Herniated Disc Fast Pain Relief Without Surgery – Kearny Mesa, Ca
A herniated disc can quickly disrupt daily life. Sitting, driving, sleeping, or bending may become painful, and many people experience symptoms that radiate into the leg or arm. These sensations are often described as burning, sharp, or electric, and they can significantly limit work, exercise, and overall quality of life.
When patients in Kearny Mesa are diagnosed with a herniated disc, they are frequently told their next steps involve medication, injections, or surgery. While those options are sometimes appropriate, many people are not informed that a significant number of disc injuries respond well to properly applied non-surgical treatment when the underlying compression is addressed.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located just minutes from Kearny Mesa on Murphy Canyon Road, Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC focuses almost exclusively on disc-related conditions using Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) combined with structured rehabilitation. The objective is to reduce pressure on the injured disc, support natural healing, and improve spinal stability so symptoms are less likely to return.
Why herniated discs cause persistent pain
Spinal discs have limited blood supply. When a disc is compressed for extended periods of time, its ability to heal is significantly reduced. A herniation occurs when the inner portion of the disc pushes outward and irritates nearby nerves. This irritation leads to inflammation, weakness, and pain that may travel into the extremities.
Treatments that focus only on symptom relief often fall short because the mechanical pressure inside the disc remains unchanged. Without reducing that pressure, the environment needed for healing simply does not exist.
How non-surgical spinal decompression addresses the root problem
Our clinic uses the FDA-cleared DRX9000 spinal decompression system, which is designed specifically for disc injuries. Unlike basic traction, this system applies precise, computer-controlled forces to gently separate the vertebrae and create negative pressure within the disc. This process helps reduce nerve compression, improves circulation to the disc, and supports the body’s natural repair process.
Each decompression session is customized based on the patient’s imaging, symptoms, and spinal mechanics. There is no standardized protocol applied to everyone. This level of precision is essential for disc-related conditions.
Why long-term improvement requires more than decompression alone
Spinal decompression is a passive therapy. While it plays a critical role in reducing disc pressure, lasting results depend on improving how the spine is supported during daily movement.
For this reason, patients accepted for treatment also receive guided exercises and mobility work designed to improve core stability, hip function, posture, and movement patterns. Addressing these factors helps reduce repeated stress on the disc and supports long-term improvement rather than short-term symptom relief.
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
Summary:
Anthony had already undergone back surgery and was facing recurring disc and sciatic pain. After being accepted for non-surgical spinal decompression, he experienced noticeable improvement within the first few sessions and was able to 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:
Lisa travels internationally for treatment due to the effectiveness of her decompression program. Her experience highlights both the complexity of her disc condition and the confidence she has in the treatment process.
“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 two 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 professional. The environment is relaxing, and I truly thank God for leading me to this alternative.”
— Amanda, San Diego, CA
Summary:
Amanda was diagnosed with an extruded disc and was scheduled for injections and a surgical consultation. After undergoing spinal decompression, she avoided both and returned to a high level of 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 environment. The treatments were tailored to my specific needs and significantly improved my quality of life.”
— Brian Perrotta, San Diego, CA
Summary:
Brian’s experience reflects the individualized nature of treatment and the importance of addressing disc-related nerve compression directly.
“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. The exercise and information Dr. Boelk provides is critical to maintaining results and increasing mobility. One of the best decisions I made for my back.”
— Kaitelyn H., San Diego, CA
Summary:
Kaitelyn’s results emphasize the role of active rehabilitation alongside decompression in achieving sustainable improvement.
What successful cases tend to have in common
While every case is different, patients who respond well typically address disc compression directly, follow a structured treatment plan, remain consistent, and participate actively in rehabilitation.
When the mechanical environment of the spine improves, healing becomes far more achievable.
Helpful steps you can take at home
While waiting for an evaluation, some patients find the following helpful:
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Avoid prolonged sitting; stand or walk every 30–45 minutes
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Use lumbar support when seated
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Take short, gentle walks to promote circulation
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Avoid repeated bending or twisting under load
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Use ice briefly if inflammation increases
These steps may help manage symptoms but do not replace proper evaluation or treatment when a disc injury is present.
About Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC
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Board-Certified Doctor of Chiropractic
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Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
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Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
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California X-Ray Radiology Licensed Doctor
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Member, International Disc Education Association
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Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy
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Over 100,000 spinal decompression treatments performed
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Seven DRX9000 spinal decompression machines in one clinic
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Nearly 21 years specializing in disc-related conditions
Dr. Boelk also trains other physicians nationally in proper spinal decompression protocols.
Scheduling an evaluation
If you are dealing with ongoing disc pain, early evaluation often makes treatment more straightforward.
Next steps:
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Call (619) 298-0800
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Text (619) 884-8298 after hours
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Bring MRI or X-rays if available
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Review findings with Dr. Boelk to determine whether you can be accepted for treatment
Appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis due to limited availability.
📍 The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123
📞 (619) 298-0800
📱 (619) 884-8298
🌐 www.SanDiegoBackCare.com
