Sciatica Pain Getting Worse – La Jolla, CA
When sciatica pain continues to worsen, many people in La Jolla start looking for answers after months—or even years—of frustration. Pain may begin in the low back or hip and travel down the leg, often intensifying with sitting, driving, or prolonged activity.
If your symptoms are becoming more frequent, more intense, or harder to control, it’s often a sign that the root cause of nerve irritation hasn’t been resolved.
Why Sciatica Often Progresses Instead of Improving
Sciatica describes irritation of the sciatic nerve, but it does not explain why the nerve is irritated. In many patients, the source lies within the lumbar spine and involves ongoing compression or pressure on a spinal nerve.
This pressure is commonly related to:
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Bulging discs
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Herniated discs
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Loss of disc height or hydration over time
When disc pressure remains, symptoms may temporarily fluctuate but often trend worse—especially with activities that load the spine.
Why Stretching, Medications, and Rest Aren’t Always Enough
Many people with sciatica are advised to stretch aggressively, rest more, or rely on medications. While these approaches may help manage symptoms short term, they typically do not reduce disc pressure when a disc is contributing to nerve irritation.
Without addressing the mechanical component of the problem, sciatica often persists or becomes chronic.
“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
Summary:
After a decade of worsening sciatica and failed conservative care, Toni avoided surgery once disc-related nerve pressure was properly addressed.
How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) Works
Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is designed to address disc-related causes of sciatica, not just symptoms.
Using a computer-controlled table, decompression applies precise, measured forces to the spine. Unlike general traction, NSSD is engineered to:
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Gently reduce pressure inside the disc
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Create a pressure gradient that may help draw fluids, oxygen, and nutrients back into the disc
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Reduce mechanical stress on irritated spinal nerves
This process is highly specific and must be customized to the patient’s spine, disc condition, and tolerance.
At our clinic, we exclusively use DRX9000 true spinal decompression machines, which allow for accurate force modulation and ongoing adjustments as the body responds to care.
Why Proper Evaluation Matters Before Decompression
Not everyone with sciatica is a candidate for decompression. Determining appropriateness requires a thorough evaluation to confirm:
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Evidence of disc and nerve involvement
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Absence of spinal instability on imaging
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No contraindications such as severe degeneration, fracture risk, or hardware in the area of treatment
This evaluation process helps ensure care is both safe and appropriate.
“Dr. Boelk has been a life saver. Have had constant lower back and sciatica pain for over 8 plus months, no pills helped and on track for multiple shots but with the treatment given I have found relief and down to zero pain. As a firefighter that relies on his body to help others and the results I have experienced it's totally worth looking into what Dr. Boelk can do for you.”
— Joshua T., San Diego, CA
Summary:
Joshua’s sciatica persisted despite medications and escalating care before improving once disc pressure was addressed non-surgically.
Why Equipment and Protocols Make a Difference
Not all spinal decompression is the same. Outcomes depend on:
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The quality of the machine
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Accurate force settings
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Individualized protocols
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Ongoing reassessment throughout care
Our clinic houses seven DRX9000 machines in one location, allowing treatment to be customized rather than standardized.
“I have had a wonderful experience with Dr. Boelk and his staff at the Spinal Decompression and Chiropractic Center of San Diego. They have a great protocol and the best decompression machines. I’ve been to other places with sub par machines and didn’t get any benefit. Dr. Boelk is very attentive and cares about each person, you can see it in how he interacts with everyone. Been undergoing treatment for about 12 sessions now and the sciatica is gone and I’m almost back to normal, didn’t think it would ever heal but even after the first session I had tremendous relief and could sleep mostly pain free for the first time in months. Definitely worth the investment! Thank you!”
— Michael Langsdale, San Diego, CA
Summary:
Michael’s experience illustrates how proper decompression protocols and equipment quality influence outcomes.
Addressing the Bigger Picture of Chronic Sciatica
Long-standing sciatic pain often affects more than physical comfort. Sleep disruption, reduced activity, and emotional strain are common when pain becomes persistent.
“There is not enough room to explain the relief Dr. Boelk has brought to me and my entire family… I trust him with my life and my back. So should you!”
— Jayson Yavorsky, San Diego, CA
Summary:
Jayson’s experience highlights the broader life impact of unresolved sciatica and the importance of careful, honest evaluation.
Supporting Long-Term Stability After Decompression
For many patients, decompression is paired with guided rehabilitation to help support spinal stability, improve movement patterns, and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
“I had really bad back problems to the point I couldn’t sleep… Dr. Cassidy Boelk is hands down amazing—super glad I came here.”
— Abel T., San Diego, CA
Summary:
Abel’s recovery reflects the benefit of addressing nerve pressure first, then supporting the spine through rehabilitation.
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 sciatica or disc-related nerve pain is interfering with your daily life, an early evaluation can help determine whether care is appropriate.
How to get started:
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Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298 after hours
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Bring MRI or X-rays if available
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Review findings directly with Dr. Boelk
👉 Consultations are no-charge and carry no obligation.
Because availability is limited and many patients travel in for care, appointments are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
📍 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
Se habla español.
Referral Policy
All patients—whether referred by a physician, specialist, therapist, or friend—are seen on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring adequate time to determine candidacy for care.