Spinal Decompression Chiropractor in San Diego, CA
If you're searching for a spinal decompression chiropractor in San Diego, California, you're probably looking for more than a traditional chiropractic adjustment. You may be dealing with a herniated disc, severe sciatica, degenerative disc disease, a pinched nerve, or chronic back pain that hasn't responded to other treatments.
A chiropractor who specializes in non-surgical spinal decompression may be able to offer additional conservative treatment options, particularly for patients experiencing symptoms associated with spinal disc injuries.
At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC, has spent more than 22 years helping patients with difficult spinal conditions explore alternatives to surgery.
Dr. Boelk is a Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor, Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist, and founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he teaches other doctors specialized decompression protocols and techniques.
His San Diego clinic features seven DRX9000 spinal decompression systems, making it one of the largest known dedicated non-surgical spinal decompression facilities in California.
Unlike chiropractic offices that offer spinal decompression as one of many services, Dr. Boelk has built much of his practice around evaluating and treating patients with disc-related spinal conditions.
Limited No-Charge Spinal Decompression Consultations Available
For individuals considering spinal decompression, the center offers a complimentary consultation to help determine whether further evaluation may be appropriate.
During this consultation, prospective patients can:
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Discuss their back pain, neck pain, sciatica, or nerve-related symptoms.
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Review their previous treatment history and available MRI findings.
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Learn how DRX9000 non-surgical spinal decompression works.
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Understand the difference between chiropractic adjustments and spinal decompression.
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Discuss whether their condition may be appropriate for conservative treatment.
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Learn about the next steps without committing to a treatment program.
Call 619-298-0800 to schedule a no-charge consultation.
Why Patients Seek a Chiropractor Who Specializes in Spinal Decompression
Many patients begin their search for spinal decompression after experiencing persistent pain despite trying other treatments.
Some have already undergone physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, injections, or medication management.
Others have recently been diagnosed with a herniated disc and want to understand whether surgery can be avoided.
Traditional chiropractic care and non-surgical spinal decompression are different treatment approaches.
Chiropractic adjustments involve applying a controlled force to specific joints to improve movement or address certain musculoskeletal problems.
Non-surgical spinal decompression uses a motorized traction system that applies carefully controlled pulling forces to the spine.
The objective is to reduce mechanical loading on selected spinal structures and potentially relieve symptoms associated with certain disc-related conditions.
Not every chiropractor offers spinal decompression, and not every office uses the same equipment or treatment protocols.
For patients considering this treatment, the experience of the provider, quality of the evaluation, appropriate patient selection, and integration of rehabilitation are important considerations.
Patient Experience: Avoiding Back Surgery After Years of Pain
For some patients, finding the right treatment approach can make a meaningful difference in their daily lives.
Calder Pearce described his experience after dealing with lower back problems for more than five years.
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.”
While individual experiences vary, this testimonial reflects why many patients want to investigate non-surgical options before making decisions about more invasive procedures.
What Conditions Can a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor Evaluate?
Patients often seek a spinal decompression chiropractor for symptoms associated with spinal discs and irritated nerves.
Common conditions evaluated at The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego include:
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Lumbar disc herniations
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Cervical disc herniations
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Bulging spinal discs
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L4-L5 and L5-S1 disc injuries
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C5-C6 and C6-C7 disc injuries
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Sciatica
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Chronic lower back pain
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Chronic neck pain
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Degenerative disc disease
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Certain cases of foraminal stenosis
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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
These conditions do not all respond to treatment in the same way.
For example, a patient with a lumbar disc herniation irritating the S1 nerve may require a different approach than someone with cervical foraminal stenosis causing radiating arm pain.
Some patients have multiple spinal conditions contributing to their symptoms.
The first step is determining what is actually causing the pain and whether spinal decompression is appropriate.
What Makes the DRX9000 Spinal Decompression System Different?
The DRX9000 is a motorized spinal decompression system designed to apply controlled traction forces to the spine.
The system allows clinicians to adjust treatment parameters based on the patient's condition, tolerance, and response.
During treatment, patients are positioned on a specialized table while the equipment applies programmed cycles of traction and relaxation.
Treatment is generally performed while the patient remains fully clothed.
At Dr. Boelk's San Diego clinic, 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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Individualized treatment protocols
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Dedicated spinal decompression treatment areas
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Rehabilitation and spinal stabilization services
Dr. Boelk has chosen to focus on the DRX9000 platform rather than offering numerous different traction systems.
He has extensive experience using this equipment and training other healthcare professionals in decompression protocols.
However, patients should understand that the research comparing specific decompression brands remains limited. Current evidence does not establish that the DRX9000 is universally superior to every other motorized traction system.
The clinical evaluation, appropriate patient selection, treatment parameters, and overall rehabilitation plan remain important parts of care.
Is Spinal Decompression the Same as Chiropractic Adjustments?
No. Although both may be offered by chiropractors, they are different procedures.
Traditional chiropractic adjustments generally involve a controlled manual or instrument-assisted force applied to spinal or other joints.
Non-surgical spinal decompression uses mechanical traction to apply a sustained or intermittent pulling force to selected regions of the spine.
A chiropractic adjustment may be considered when joint mobility or certain mechanical pain patterns are involved.
Spinal decompression may be considered when symptoms suggest that disc-related mechanical loading or nerve irritation is contributing to the patient's condition.
Some patients may benefit from a combination of approaches, while others may not be appropriate candidates for one or both treatments.
A chiropractor who specializes in spinal decompression should understand these differences and make recommendations based on the patient's examination findings rather than using the same treatment for everyone.
Does Spinal Decompression Actually Work?
Research on mechanical traction and non-surgical spinal decompression has produced mixed findings.
Some studies suggest that selected patients with lumbar disc-related symptoms may experience short-term improvements in pain or disability when traction is incorporated into their care.
Other studies have found limited or inconsistent benefits.
There is currently insufficient high-quality evidence to conclude that spinal decompression reliably reverses disc herniations, restores lost disc height permanently, or prevents the need for surgery.
However, for appropriately selected patients, a supervised trial of conservative treatment may be considered when clinically reasonable.
At Dr. Boelk's practice, treatment decisions are based on the patient's symptoms, examination findings, available imaging, medical history, and response to previous care.
The objective is to improve comfort and function while recognizing that not every spinal condition is appropriate for decompression.
Patient Experience: Severe Sciatica and Lower Back Pain
Sciatica can be especially difficult because the symptoms often extend beyond the lower back.
Patients may experience burning pain, tingling, numbness, or shooting discomfort traveling into the buttock, thigh, calf, or foot.
Abel T. shared his experience after an accident caused severe back pain and radiating sciatic symptoms.
Patient Testimonial – Abel T., San Diego, CA
“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.”
Why Experience Matters When Choosing a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor
Spinal decompression is not simply a matter of placing someone on a machine and pressing a button.
A patient's symptoms, spinal condition, neurological findings, imaging, and treatment tolerance should all be considered.
Two patients with similar MRI findings may have very different symptoms and functional limitations.
One patient may have severe leg pain from a relatively small disc herniation, while another may have a larger herniation with minimal symptoms.
A thorough evaluation helps identify which structures may be contributing to the patient's pain and whether conservative treatment is appropriate.
Dr. Boelk's experience includes more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions overseen during his clinical career.
He also founded the Spinal Decompression Training Academy in San Diego, where he trains other doctors in patient evaluation, treatment protocols, decompression techniques, and clinical decision-making.
This combination of clinical experience and professional instruction is an important part of his practice.
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.
He understands firsthand how spinal pain can interfere with sports, exercise, work, and everyday activities.
Rather than allowing those injuries to completely dictate his lifestyle, he devoted significant time to rehabilitation, strength training, mobility, and understanding spinal mechanics.
These experiences helped shape his professional interest in helping patients with difficult spinal conditions.
Today, Dr. Boelk combines more than 22 years of clinical experience with specialized training in non-surgical spinal decompression and rehabilitation.
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 other doctors learning non-surgical spinal decompression protocols and techniques
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Extensive experience evaluating disc herniations, 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, golf, and other sports.
His approach emphasizes helping patients regain function and return to meaningful activities whenever possible.
What Happens During a Spinal Decompression Evaluation?
An appropriate spinal decompression evaluation involves more than reviewing an MRI report.
Dr. Boelk considers several important factors when evaluating prospective patients.
Medical history and symptoms
Understanding when symptoms began, what aggravates them, and how they affect daily activities can provide important diagnostic information.
Previous treatment
Patients are asked about previous chiropractic care, physical therapy, injections, medications, surgery, and other treatments.
Neurological examination
When indicated, testing may include muscle strength, reflexes, sensation, and other findings that help assess possible nerve involvement.
Imaging review
Existing MRI or X-ray findings may help identify disc herniations, degenerative changes, spinal alignment, or other structural concerns.
Spinal stability
Standing spinal X-rays, including flexion and extension views when clinically indicated, may help identify certain forms of spinal instability.
Treatment candidacy
The final step is determining whether spinal decompression is appropriate or whether another treatment approach or referral is necessary.
Not every patient requires an MRI, and imaging recommendations are individualized.
How Many Spinal Decompression Treatments Are Usually Needed?
The number of treatments varies according to the patient's condition, symptom severity, response, and overall treatment plan.
At Dr. Boelk's clinic, 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.
Depending on the patient's needs, treatment may also include rehabilitation, activity modification, and home exercises.
Patients are periodically reassessed to determine whether meaningful progress is occurring.
Treatment should not continue indefinitely without evaluating the patient's response.
Why Rehabilitation Is Important Alongside Spinal Decompression
Reducing symptoms is only one part of managing a spinal condition.
Patients also need to regain strength, movement confidence, and the ability to tolerate normal daily 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 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 identify movements that are appropriate for the patient's condition rather than prescribing the same exercises to everyone.
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 conditions may require additional medical evaluation or make spinal 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 or other conditions affecting spinal integrity
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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 appropriate.
Patient Testimonial – Toni W., Lake Elsinore, CA
“Very nice Dr. and Honest ! I would definitely recommend anyone who hasn't had metal put in there back in a surgery to go to him and give his program a shot. I believe it would definitely help. Just not in my personal case. As I have a lot of hardware in my back. But I'm glad I took the time to meet with him. It was very informative all around.”
This experience illustrates why an honest evaluation is an important part of the treatment process.
For some patients, the most appropriate recommendation is not spinal decompression.
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 Outside San Diego for Spinal Decompression
Although Dr. Boelk's practice is located in San Diego, some patients travel from outside the immediate area to seek his expertise.
The clinic serves patients from communities throughout San Diego County, including:
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Kearny Mesa
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Mission Valley
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Clairemont
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Mira Mesa
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La Jolla
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Chula Vista
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El Cajon
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Santee
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La Mesa
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Poway
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Rancho Bernardo
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Carlsbad
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Encinitas
Dr. Boelk has also evaluated patients traveling from other states 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 they make arrangements.
How to Choose the Right Spinal Decompression Chiropractor in San Diego
When researching a spinal decompression chiropractor, patients should consider several factors.
Specialized experience: How much experience does the provider have evaluating disc herniations, sciatica, and related spinal conditions?
Equipment: What type of spinal decompression system does the office use, and how are treatment parameters selected?
Patient selection: Does the provider explain which conditions may not be appropriate for spinal decompression?
Individualized care: Is the treatment plan based on the patient's examination findings and response 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 San Diego practice around these considerations, with a particular emphasis on disc-related conditions and non-surgical spinal decompression.
Schedule a No-Charge Consultation With a Spinal Decompression Chiropractor in San Diego
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.
The consultation provides an opportunity to:
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Discuss your 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.
Because Dr. Boelk personally evaluates prospective patients and maintains a busy clinical schedule, the number of consultation appointments available each week is limited.
For patients who want to explore their options before considering injections or surgery, scheduling a consultation may be a useful first step.
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.
Conveniently located in Kearny Mesa near Interstate 15, serving patients throughout San Diego County.
If you're searching for an experienced spinal decompression chiropractor in San Diego, contact The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego to learn whether a consultation with Dr. Boelk may be appropriate for your condition.