Spinal Decompression Chiropractor in La Jolla, CA
If you're searching for a spinal decompression chiropractor in La Jolla, California, you may be dealing with a herniated disc, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, or persistent neck or lower back pain that hasn't improved with conventional treatment.
Perhaps you've already tried chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, medications, or spinal injections. You may have been told that surgery is an option, but you'd prefer to explore appropriate non-surgical treatments first.
For patients in La Jolla looking for a chiropractor who specializes in non-surgical spinal decompression, Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC, offers consultations at The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located in nearby Kearny Mesa.
Dr. Boelk is a Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor and Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist with more than 22 years of clinical experience. His practice focuses extensively on disc-related spinal conditions, including herniated discs, sciatica, and chronic neck and lower back pain.
The center features seven DRX9000 spinal decompression systems, including four lumbar and three cervical units. Dr. Boelk has also overseen more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions throughout his career.
As the founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, he teaches other doctors specialized decompression protocols, patient selection, and treatment techniques.
For La Jolla residents considering non-surgical spinal decompression, the first step is determining whether the treatment is appropriate for their condition.
Limited No-Charge Spinal Decompression Consultations Available
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Discuss your lower back pain, neck pain, sciatica, or disc-related symptoms.
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Review your previous treatment history and available MRI findings.
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Learn about DRX9000 non-surgical spinal decompression.
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Understand how spinal decompression differs from traditional chiropractic adjustments.
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Discuss whether additional examination or imaging may be appropriate.
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Explore your options without committing to a treatment program.
Call 619-298-0800 to schedule a no-charge consultation.
Why Patients in La Jolla Search for a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor
La Jolla is home to an active community of people who enjoy walking, swimming, surfing, golf, tennis, fitness training, and spending time outdoors.
Unfortunately, a herniated disc or irritated spinal nerve can make even simple activities difficult.
Some patients experience lower back pain that becomes worse when sitting. Others develop sciatica that travels into the buttock, thigh, calf, or foot.
Neck-related conditions may produce pain extending into the shoulder, arm, or hand.
For individuals who have already tried traditional chiropractic care or physical therapy without sufficient improvement, specialized spinal decompression may be another conservative option worth discussing.
However, spinal decompression is not appropriate for every spinal condition, and treatment should begin with an individualized evaluation rather than assuming that all back pain comes from a damaged disc.
What Is the Difference Between a Regular Chiropractor and a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor?
Most chiropractors are trained to evaluate musculoskeletal conditions and provide treatments such as spinal adjustments, exercise recommendations, and other conservative therapies.
Some chiropractic offices also offer mechanical traction or spinal decompression.
A chiropractor who focuses extensively on spinal decompression generally has additional clinical experience evaluating disc-related conditions and using specialized traction equipment.
Traditional chiropractic adjustments involve applying a controlled force to selected spinal or other joints.
Non-surgical spinal decompression uses a motorized traction system to apply controlled pulling forces to the spine.
The purpose is to reduce mechanical loading on selected spinal structures and potentially relieve symptoms associated with certain disc-related conditions.
One approach is not automatically better than the other.
The appropriate treatment depends on the patient's diagnosis, symptoms, examination findings, medical history, and response to previous care.
At Dr. Boelk's practice, spinal decompression is a major clinical focus rather than simply an occasional additional service.
A Patient's Experience After Years of Lower Back Pain
For some patients, the search for an effective treatment becomes frustrating after months or years of discomfort.
Calder Pearce shared his experience after seeing multiple doctors while searching for alternatives to surgery.
Patient Testimonial – Calder Pearce, San Diego, CA
“Dr. Boelk and his team are the best in the business! I have had lower back problems for over 5 years and been to 6 other doctors seeking options other than surgery. I came in early January not able to bend and walking with a limp. By February I was able to bend again with minimal pain and by March I am now able to bend without any pain and am able to walk normally.
I am EXTREMELY happy I did not have surgery and found Dr. Boelk. Trust him and the process and he will get you feeling better. He also said from the beginning that if at any stage in the process he felt like progress wasn't happening he would let me know which was not the case with other specialist I have seen in the past so I appreciate that.”
Individual results vary, and not every patient can avoid surgery. However, experiences like this help explain why some patients seek specialized conservative treatment before considering more invasive procedures.
What Conditions Can a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor Evaluate?
Dr. Boelk evaluates patients with a variety of spinal conditions, including:
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Lumbar disc herniations
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Cervical disc herniations
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L4-L5 disc bulges and herniations
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L5-S1 disc bulges and herniations
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C5-C6 and C6-C7 disc injuries
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Sciatica
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Degenerative disc disease
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Certain cases of foraminal stenosis
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Chronic lower back pain
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Chronic neck pain
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Disc protrusions and extrusions
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Annular tears or fissures
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Pinched nerves
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Radiating arm or leg pain
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Certain cases of spondylolisthesis
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Persistent disc-related symptoms after previous conservative treatment
Having one of these diagnoses does not automatically mean that spinal decompression is appropriate.
For example, someone with a relatively small disc herniation may experience severe nerve pain, while another patient with a larger herniation may have minimal symptoms.
Imaging findings must be considered alongside the patient's symptoms and examination results.
Can a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor Help With Sciatica?
Sciatica refers to symptoms associated with irritation or compression of nerves that contribute to the sciatic nerve.
Patients commonly describe burning, shooting, electric-like pain, tingling, or numbness traveling from the lower back into the buttock or leg.
A lumbar disc herniation is one possible cause, but sciatica-like symptoms can also occur with spinal stenosis and other conditions.
For patients with disc-related sciatica, non-surgical spinal decompression may be considered as part of a conservative treatment program.
Some research suggests that mechanical traction may provide short-term symptom relief for selected patients. However, evidence remains mixed, and spinal decompression has not been established as a reliable way to reverse disc herniations or prevent surgery.
A thorough examination is necessary to determine whether the patient's symptoms are consistent with a condition that may be appropriate for conservative care.
Why the DRX9000 Is a Major Focus of Dr. Boelk's Practice
The DRX9000 is a motorized spinal decompression system designed to apply controlled traction forces to the spine.
During treatment, the patient is positioned on a specialized table while the equipment delivers programmed cycles of traction and relaxation.
The treatment parameters can be adjusted according to the patient's condition, tolerance, and response.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, the facility includes:
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Four DRX9000 lumbar spinal decompression systems
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Three cervical spinal decompression systems
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Seven total spinal decompression units
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Dedicated treatment areas
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Individualized decompression protocols
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Rehabilitation and spinal stabilization services
Dr. Boelk has focused extensively on the DRX9000 platform and has trained other healthcare professionals in its clinical application.
Although the system provides controlled mechanical traction, current research does not establish that the DRX9000 is universally superior to other traction systems.
Appropriate patient selection, clinical judgment, and rehabilitation remain important parts of treatment.
Patient Experience: Severe Back Pain That Affected Everyday Life
When lower back pain becomes severe, it can interfere with sleep, work, exercise, and basic daily activities.
Ming T. described how persistent back pain began affecting his ability to function.
Patient Testimonial – Ming T., San Diego, CA
“I came in with extreme back pain, resulting in days were it was difficult to get out of bed. There were moments where I would be walking and then my back would lock up. I thought it was something I have dealt with in the past but this last the entire month of July. I finally dedicated myself to finding the long term solution.
I came to Dr. Boelk unsure about the process, but after he identified exactly what my ailment was, I felt confident that this was the long term solution I was looking for.
I instantly felt better and Dr. Boelk kept encouraging me to trust the process and understand it will take time to feel 100%. I am now pain free and honestly feel stronger, even a little taller. I highly recommend you visit Dr. Boelk.”
Why Experience Matters When Choosing a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor
Spinal decompression should not be approached as a one-size-fits-all treatment.
A patient with an L5-S1 disc herniation causing S1 nerve irritation may have very different needs from someone with cervical foraminal stenosis and radiating arm pain.
Likewise, patients with significant spinal instability, progressive neurological weakness, or certain postoperative conditions may not be appropriate candidates.
Dr. Boelk has overseen more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions during his career.
He also founded the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he teaches other doctors about patient selection, treatment protocols, and decompression techniques.
His approach emphasizes understanding the patient's condition before recommending treatment.
Meet Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC
Dr. Boelk's interest in spinal rehabilitation began with his own experience as a patient.
As a teenager, he fractured his lower back and later experienced lumbar disc herniations and sciatica.
Those injuries influenced his professional interest in helping people manage spinal pain and regain function.
He understands how difficult it can be when back or neck pain interferes with exercise, work, family activities, and an active lifestyle.
Over the years, he has devoted thousands of hours to his own spinal rehabilitation while helping patients with similar conditions.
His professional qualifications and experience include:
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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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Founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy
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Founding Member of the American Spinal Decompression Society
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Member of the International Disc Education Association
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California X-ray Radiology Licensed Doctor
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More than 22 years of clinical experience
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Experience overseeing more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions
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Advanced experience with DRX9000 lumbar and cervical spinal decompression systems
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Instructor for doctors learning non-surgical spinal decompression protocols and techniques
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Extensive experience evaluating herniated discs, sciatica, and chronic spinal conditions
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Specialized interest in spinal rehabilitation, mobility, and stabilization
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Personal experience recovering from a spinal fracture, disc herniations, and sciatica
Dr. Boelk continues to maintain an active lifestyle that includes strength training, surfing, and other recreational activities.
His approach emphasizes helping patients improve function and return to the activities that matter to them whenever possible.
What Happens During a Spinal Decompression Evaluation?
A thorough evaluation is important because symptoms that appear similar can have very different causes.
For example, lower back pain with leg symptoms may be related to a disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or another condition.
Dr. Boelk considers several factors when evaluating prospective patients.
Medical history: Reviewing symptoms, previous injuries, surgeries, and treatment experiences.
Physical examination: Assessing movement, function, and relevant musculoskeletal findings.
Neurological examination: Evaluating muscle strength, reflexes, sensation, and other findings when indicated.
Imaging review: Reviewing available MRI or X-ray studies and determining whether additional imaging is necessary.
Spinal stability: Standing spinal X-rays, including flexion and extension views when clinically appropriate, may help identify certain forms of instability.
Treatment candidacy: Determining whether spinal decompression is appropriate or whether another treatment approach or specialist referral is preferable.
Not every patient requires an MRI immediately, and imaging recommendations are individualized.
How Many Spinal Decompression Treatments Are Usually Recommended?
The number of sessions depends on the patient's condition, symptoms, treatment response, and clinical findings.
At Dr. Boelk's practice, many spinal decompression programs involve approximately 12 to 24 sessions, often scheduled several times per week.
A typical decompression session lasts approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Some patients may also benefit from a structured rehabilitation program involving spinal stabilization, mobility, and strengthening exercises.
Progress is periodically reassessed to determine whether meaningful improvement is occurring.
Treatment recommendations should be adjusted according to the patient's response rather than continuing indefinitely without reassessment.
Why Rehabilitation Is Important Alongside Spinal Decompression
Reducing pain is only one part of managing a spinal condition.
Patients also need to regain strength, movement confidence, and the ability to tolerate everyday activities.
Depending on the patient's diagnosis and symptoms, rehabilitation may include:
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Core stabilization exercises
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Modified bird dogs
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Glute strengthening
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Hip mobility exercises
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Progressive resistance training
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Walking programs
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Movement modification
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Postural endurance exercises
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Gradual return to sports and recreational activities
Exercise selection should be individualized.
Some patients with disc herniations experience increased symptoms with repeated lumbar flexion, while others may be more sensitive to extension.
The goal is to improve function without unnecessarily aggravating symptoms.
Not Everyone Is a Candidate for Spinal Decompression
One of the most important responsibilities of a spinal decompression chiropractor is recognizing when treatment is not appropriate.
Certain medical conditions may require additional evaluation or make decompression unsuitable.
These can include:
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Acute spinal fractures
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Significant spinal instability
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Progressive neurological weakness
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Certain postoperative conditions involving spinal hardware
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Spinal tumors or infections
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Severe osteoporosis
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Certain cases of significant spondylolisthesis
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Pregnancy when considering lumbar decompression
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Other conditions requiring specialist or surgical management
New bowel or bladder dysfunction, saddle anesthesia, or rapidly progressive neurological weakness requires emergency medical evaluation.
Dr. Boelk emphasizes patient selection and may recommend additional imaging or specialist consultation when necessary.
Patient Testimonial – Jeff J., Tucson, AZ
“I found this terrific practice on social media. I followed up and did my own research so I decided to pay them a visit. The place is clean, well organized and run by a very efficient receptionist. I met with the doctor and after a honest and forthright conversation, we both determined that surgery was my only option to correct my back issues. I will return as a customer when the time is right.”
This experience reflects an important part of the clinic's approach: helping patients understand their options, even when spinal decompression is not recommended.
Do You Need a Referral to See a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor?
Patients can generally contact The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego directly to schedule a consultation.
A referral from another healthcare provider is not typically required for a self-pay consultation.
The center also receives patients referred by chiropractors, medical doctors, physical therapists, orthopedic specialists, neurologists, and other healthcare professionals.
Patients are evaluated according to their clinical needs and appointment availability, regardless of referral source.
Patients Travel From La Jolla and Throughout San Diego County
The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego is located in Kearny Mesa, making it accessible to patients traveling from La Jolla and nearby coastal communities.
The clinic serves patients from:
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La Jolla
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Bird Rock
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La Jolla Shores
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University City
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UTC
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Pacific Beach
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Clairemont
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Del Mar
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Carmel Valley
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Mira Mesa
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Mission Valley
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Kearny Mesa
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Poway
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Rancho Bernardo
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Other San Diego County communities
Some patients also travel from outside California and international locations, including Mexico, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
For patients considering travel, the office can discuss the consultation process, available imaging, and scheduling considerations before making arrangements.
How to Choose a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor Near La Jolla
When researching spinal decompression treatment, patients should consider several important factors.
Experience: Does the chiropractor have extensive experience evaluating herniated discs, sciatica, and related spinal conditions?
Equipment: What type of spinal decompression system does the office use?
Patient selection: Does the provider explain which patients may not be appropriate candidates?
Individualized care: Is the treatment plan based on the patient's symptoms, examination findings, and imaging rather than a standard protocol for everyone?
Rehabilitation: Does the office address strength, movement, and activity modification alongside symptom management?
Communication: Does the provider explain the diagnosis, available options, expected costs, and realistic treatment goals?
Honest recommendations: Is the provider willing to recommend another specialist or surgical evaluation when appropriate?
Dr. Boelk has built his practice around these considerations, with a particular emphasis on disc-related spinal conditions and non-surgical spinal decompression.
Schedule a No-Charge Consultation With a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor Near La Jolla, CA
If you've been struggling with a herniated disc, sciatica, chronic lower back pain, or persistent neck pain, you may be wondering whether spinal decompression is worth considering.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC, offers limited no-charge consultations for individuals interested in learning more about non-surgical spinal decompression.
During the consultation, patients can:
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Discuss their symptoms and concerns.
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Review previous treatment experiences.
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Discuss existing MRI or X-ray findings.
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Learn how DRX9000 spinal decompression works.
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Understand whether further examination may be appropriate.
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Ask questions about conservative treatment options.
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Learn about potential next steps before making a decision.
The consultation is provided at no charge and carries no obligation to begin treatment. Any recommended examination, imaging, or treatment is discussed separately.
For La Jolla residents looking for an experienced spinal decompression chiropractor, the center offers an opportunity to explore whether non-surgical treatment may be appropriate.
The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC
Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor
Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist
Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy
Office Address:
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123
Phone: 619-298-0800
Website: www.SanDiegoBackCare.com
Email: frontdesk@sandiegobackcare.com
24/7 telephone answering service available. Hablamos Español.
Located in Kearny Mesa, serving La Jolla and communities throughout San Diego County.
If you're looking for a spinal decompression chiropractor near La Jolla, contact the office to learn whether a consultation with Dr. Boelk may be appropriate for your condition.