Sciatica Relief Without Surgery – San Diego, CA
Non-Surgical Treatment for Disc-Related Leg Pain
Sciatica can take over your life faster than most back problems.
What often starts as a small ache in the lower back turns into sharp, burning pain that travels into the hip, down the leg, or even into the foot. Sitting becomes uncomfortable. Driving hurts. Sleep gets interrupted. Some people notice numbness or weakness when walking.
By the time most patients search for help, they’re not just sore — they’re frustrated.
And many are told the same thing:
“You may need injections… or surgery.”
For many people, that’s not the only path forward.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC specializes in treating the most common cause of sciatica — disc compression — using precise, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression combined with active rehabilitation.
Dr. Boelk is a Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor and Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist with nearly 20 years of experience and over 100,000 spinal decompression treatments performed. His clinic houses 7 DRX9000 spinal decompression systems, making it one of the most experienced decompression centers in California.
Helping patients avoid unnecessary surgery is not something we occasionally do — it is the primary focus of this office.
What Actually Causes Sciatica?
Sciatica is not a diagnosis itself. It’s a symptom.
In most cases, the pain comes from irritation or compression of a nerve in the lower spine.
The most common causes we see include:
• Herniated discs
• Bulging discs
• Loss of disc height
• Disc degeneration placing pressure on a nerve
When a disc presses on the nerve, circulation decreases and inflammation increases. That pressure keeps the nerve irritated, which is why pain can travel down the leg instead of staying only in the back.
If the pressure stays, the symptoms usually stay.
Simply masking inflammation rarely solves the root problem.
Why Many Treatments Only Help Temporarily
Most patients try several approaches before seeking specialized care:
• Pain medication
• Steroid injections
• Rest
• Stretching programs
• General physical therapy
• Adjustments alone
These can reduce symptoms for a short time, but they often don’t directly change disc pressure.
If the compression is still there, the pain often returns.
This is why many people feel stuck in a cycle of temporary relief.
For lasting improvement, the mechanical stress on the nerve needs to be reduced.
How We Treat Sciatica Without Surgery
Dr. Boelk uses Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) with the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression System, an FDA-cleared, computer-guided technology designed specifically for disc conditions.
Unlike basic traction or inversion tables, true decompression carefully targets the exact spinal level involved.
The treatment gently creates negative pressure inside the disc, which helps:
• Reduce nerve compression
• Improve disc hydration
• Enhance nutrient flow
• Allow bulges or herniations to retract
• Calm irritated nerves naturally
As pressure decreases, many patients notice less leg pain, improved mobility, and better sleep.
Because decompression is a passive therapy, we always combine it with active strengthening and stability exercises. This helps correct the underlying imbalances that contributed to the problem in the first place.
Passive relief helps you feel better.
Active therapy helps you stay better.
Both are essential.
Do I Need an MRI First?
Many patients already have imaging when they come in, but you do not need an MRI before scheduling.
If you already have one, bring it.
If you don’t, you can still come in.
Dr. Boelk performs a thorough evaluation first and determines whether imaging is necessary or whether you’re already a candidate for care.
The goal is clarity and honesty — not jumping into treatment blindly.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC
When it comes to disc injuries, experience matters.
• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
• Nearly 20 years specializing in disc rehabilitation
• Over 100,000 decompression sessions performed
• Founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy (trains doctors nationwide)
• 7 DRX9000 systems in one clinic
• Largest known provider of spinal decompression in California
Patients routinely travel from throughout San Diego — and from other states and countries — because they want care delivered by someone who does this every day.
Real Patient Experiences
Michael Langsdale
“I had decompression done at another clinic before coming here and it didn’t help at all. The machine felt cheap and inconsistent. When I came to Dr. Boelk’s office, the DRX9000 felt completely different. After about 12 sessions I noticed a real change. My sciatica improved dramatically and I was finally able to get back to normal activity. This place is on another level.”
Summary: After unsuccessful treatment elsewhere, Michael improved quickly with proper DRX9000 protocols and returned to normal life.
Anthony K., San Diego
“I have been dealing with back pain for several years… the disc bulged again hitting my sciatic nerve creating pain in my legs that made me want to cry it hurt so bad… After just a few sessions I noticed a difference. Now I’m able to go about my normal life again. Thank you Dr. Boelk!”
Summary: Anthony avoided another surgery and regained daily function after decompression.
Things You Can Do at Home Right Now
While waiting for evaluation, these habits often reduce irritation:
• Walk frequently
• Avoid long periods of sitting
• Sleep with a pillow between knees
• Gentle hip/glute stretching
• Light core stability exercises
• Ice during flare-ups
These won’t fix disc compression, but they can help you feel better day-to-day.
About Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC
• Board-Certified Doctor of Chiropractic
• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
• California X-Ray Radiology Licensed
• Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy
• Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Treatments Performed
• 7 DRX9000 True Spinal Decompression Systems
• Largest Known Provider of Spinal Decompression in California
• Nearly 20 Years Specializing in Disc Rehabilitation
Next Steps
If you’re experiencing sciatica and want to explore non-surgical options first, the next step is simple.
Here’s exactly what to do:
- Call (619) 298-0800 or text (619) 884-8298
- Schedule your no-charge consultation
- Bring imaging if you have it (optional)
- Review findings directly with Dr. Boelk
- Get clear answers and a personalized plan
Because many patients travel specifically to see Dr. Boelk, new patient spots are limited each week, so scheduling in advance is recommended.
📍 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