How Much Does Spinal Decompression Cost in San Diego, CA?
Understanding What Really Impacts the Investment in Your Spine
When people begin searching for relief from disc herniations, bulging discs, sciatica, nerve pain, or chronic back and neck issues, a very common question is:
“How much does spinal decompression cost?”
It makes sense — when you’re dealing with pain that limits your life, you want to know what to expect as you explore non-surgical solutions. But the reality is that the cost of spinal decompression in San Diego can vary widely, and for good reason.
Not all spinal decompression is the same.
Not all technology is the same.
Not all providers are the same.
And because every spine, every disc injury, and every case is unique, a meaningful answer requires more than a number — it requires understanding the factors that legitimately influence your care.
Why Spinal Decompression Costs Differ Between Clinics
1. The Type of Technology Being Used
One of the biggest variables affecting cost is the machine itself.
Many clinics advertise “spinal decompression” using basic traction or flexion–distraction tables. These devices stretch the spine but cannot create true negative pressure inside the disc — the key mechanism behind real decompression.
Our clinic exclusively uses the FDA-cleared DRX9000 True Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression System, one of the most researched and precise decompression machines available today. This system is used in research at institutions such as Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Duke Medical Center, and Mayo Clinic.
Because the technology is highly advanced, customized, and capable of targeting specific disc levels and angles, the overall investment reflects that difference.
2. The Experience and Specialization of the Doctor
Spinal decompression results depend heavily on the doctor overseeing your care.
Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC has:
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Performed over 75,000 spinal decompression treatments
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Nearly 21 years of exclusive decompression specialization
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Certification as a Spinal Decompression Doctor
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Certification as a Pain-Free Performance Specialist
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A deep background in treating complex disc cases
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A reputation that draws patients from out of state and overseas
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A private training academy where he teaches decompression protocols to other doctors
Experience is a major factor in both outcome and overall value.
3. The Severity and Complexity of Your Condition
Cost always depends on individual findings such as:
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MRI results
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Level(s) of disc damage
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Chronicity of pain
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Presence of nerve compression
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Whether the case involves prior surgery
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Mobility restrictions and functional limitations
Some patients require more care; some require less.
There is no one-size-fits-all decompression plan.
This is why Dr. Boelk performs a full evaluation — including MRI review when available — before recommending any treatment approach.
4. What Is Included in a Proper Decompression Program
A true decompression program involves more than lying on a machine.
It may include:
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Precision settings matched to your disc level
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Real-time adjustments based on your response
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Decompression angle and weight customization
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Monitoring throughout the session
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Complementary therapies to help stabilize the spine when appropriate
These factors influence the time, expertise, and resources required — all of which impact the cost of care.
Why the “Cheapest Option” Is Often the Most Expensive Mistake
Unfortunately, many clinics market low-cost decompression packages using traction tables or inexperienced operators. The result is predictable:
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Little or no improvement
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Persistent nerve pain
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Worsening symptoms
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Missed treatment windows
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Increased future costs
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Continued risk of surgery
Many of our patients come to us after trying these approaches — frustrated, discouraged, and still in pain.
Here are their stories:
⭐ Patient Testimonials
“For the first time in 10 years, I am totally pain free. My sciatica is gone and I have no more back pain! I've tried other chiropractic procedures, acupuncture, pain killing drugs, and other type therapies that just did not work. I was one step before back surgery, until I discovered Dr. Boelk's therapy and his procedure, and it's a miracle! My office visits were always so relaxing and comfortable, there was never any pain involved with the therapy. Dr. Boelk and Patty are so welcoming and warm and ready to explain everything that's going on. They both take such good care of you! Thank you Dr. Boelk and Patty!”
— Toni H., San Diego, CA
**“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
**“I decided to see Dr. Boelk after a pretty gnarly motocoss neck injury. At the Hospital I was at, I felt I was getting pressured into a surgery which I refused. A friend of a friend referred him after Dr. Boelk successfully treated his broken back.
Dr. Boelk is a compassionate individual who truly cares about his patients. He looked at my MRI images, explained what he saw and potential routes for recovery. He could not treat me as I have to wait until the fracture in my neck heals, but the level of professionalism, compassion, caring and knowledge displayed by him was exceptional. He also recommended to seek an additional opinion form another neurosurgeon. My experience was that he really cares and he's not someone who would take advantage of the situation someone's in (unlike some other doctors). I will definitely be back and already recommended him to others as well! Thank you Dr. Boelk!”**
— Jan H., San Marcos, CA
**“I was having pain radiating down my legs — I couldn’t sleep or walk normally.
After treatment, I’m back to shoveling snow, teaching, walking… I can live again.
It was absolutely worth traveling from Alaska to see Dr. Boelk and his team!”**
— Lynn C., Alaska
**“I had really bad back problems to the point I couldn’t sleep, also had pain radiating along the sciatic nerve which ran down one leg from the lower back—caused by an accident.
I came in and talked to Dr. Cassidy about my back problems. He evaluated me and mentioned I was a good candidate for this treatment. After the first 2 decompression sessions my sciatic pain was gone and we were able to work on the root of the problem. I did a total of 24 sessions, after which I was able to start rehabilitation training to strengthen my core.
The office is super nice and the staff’s customer service is above and beyond.
Back and neck issues are horrible to live with—trust me, I know firsthand. I gained weight, took pain killers, went into depression, and had major anxiety. I’m over it now—feeling better, walking, sleeping well, and starting to have a better social life as well.
The experience for me has been nothing but excellent. Dr. Cassidy Boelk is hands down amazing—super glad I came here.”**
— Abel T., San Diego, CA
So What Will Your Care Cost?
The only way to determine your individualized cost is through a no-charge consultation with a full evaluation, discussion of your goals, and review of your MRI or X-rays (if available).
Every treatment plan is customized.
Every case is unique.
Every recommendation is tailored specifically to your spine.
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 75,000 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 neck or back issues, now is the time to take action before your condition becomes harder to correct.
Here’s how to get started:
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Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298 after hours.
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Schedule your no-charge consultation to find out if you qualify for DRX9000 spinal decompression.
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Bring your MRI or X-rays if available.
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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 zero obligation.
Because availability is limited and many patients travel from out of state and overseas, appointments fill quickly — 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.