Spinal Decompression Treatment Carmel Valley, CA

If you live in Carmel Valley and a herniated disc or sciatica is making it hard to sit through the workday, drive, or get back to your regular workouts, you may be wondering what options you have left. Maybe physical therapy or an injection helped for a while, but the pain returned. Or maybe you have an MRI report in front of you and still aren’t sure which finding explains the pain traveling down your leg.

The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located in Kearny Mesa, specializes in DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy for appropriately selected patients with disc-related neck and lower back conditions.

The practice is led by Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC, a Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor and Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist with more than 22 years of clinical experience. Dr. Boelk has performed or overseen more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions, and the practice is equipped with seven dedicated DRX9000 systems.

A Patient Who Wanted to Understand Why His Back Kept Locking Up

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“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.”

— Ming T., San Diego, CA

Start With a Complimentary, No-Obligation Spinal Decompression Consultation

If you’ve already tried several approaches, it’s reasonable to ask what another provider would do differently. The consultation gives you time to discuss that with Dr. Boelk before deciding whether to move forward with an evaluation.

What Your Complimentary Consultation Includes

• Discuss your symptoms. Explain where the pain starts, where it travels, and how it affects your sleep, work, exercise, and daily activities.

• Review the treatments you’ve tried. Talk through physical therapy, chiropractic care, medications, injections, surgery, or home exercises and how you responded.

• Discuss your existing X-rays or MRI. Bring your images and reports if you have them. Dr. Boelk can discuss the available findings and how they may relate to what you’re feeling.

• Learn how DRX9000 spinal decompression works. Find out how patients are positioned, how the table applies traction, and what a typical session involves.

• Discuss whether you may be a candidate. Based on your history and the information available, Dr. Boelk can explain whether further evaluation for decompression makes sense.

• Understand your next steps. If an examination, imaging, or a different type of evaluation is appropriate, you’ll learn what that involves and have time to ask questions.

The consultation is complimentary and carries no obligation. A physical examination, new X-rays, and treatment are separate services. The office explains any applicable fees before you decide whether to proceed.

Call 619-298-0800 or text 619-884-8298 to request a consultation.

What Is DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy?

The DRX9000 is a motorized table that applies controlled traction to the spine while the patient lies supported. The machine cycles between traction and periods of reduced pull. Dr. Boelk selects the positioning and settings based on the area being treated, the examination findings, and how the patient tolerates the session.

For some patients with disc-related symptoms, decompression may be considered as one part of a conservative care plan. Research on mechanical traction for pain that radiates down the leg has found mixed results, with some studies reporting short-term improvement. The evidence for lasting benefit is limited. In practice, Dr. Boelk looks for changes you can recognize in daily life, such as sitting longer, walking farther, or experiencing fewer episodes of pain down the leg.

Read more about DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Therapy.

7 Reasons Carmel Valley Patients Choose Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

1. More Than 22 Years of Experience With Disc-Related Spinal Conditions

Dr. Boelk evaluates patients with lumbar and cervical disc herniations, disc bulges, sciatica, and persistent neck or lower back pain. Many have already tried several treatments. Their response to those treatments helps guide the evaluation. For example, a patient who improved temporarily with therapy may need a different next step from someone whose leg symptoms steadily worsened during the same period.

2. More Than 100,000 Spinal Decompression Sessions Performed or Overseen

That experience has shaped how Dr. Boelk screens patients, adjusts treatment settings, and reassesses progress. Early in care, he looks at how symptoms respond between visits. A change that lasts through the workday or allows a patient to resume a regular walk provides more information about progress than how the patient feels immediately after a session.

3. Specialized Training in Decompression and Rehabilitation

As a Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor and Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist, Dr. Boelk considers both the disc-related symptoms and the movements the patient wants to regain. When appropriate, care may include mobility work, stabilization exercises, or a gradual return to lifting and other activities.

4. Personal Experience With a Serious Back Injury

Dr. Boelk fractured his lower back at age 16 and later experienced disc herniations and sciatica. He has spent thousands of hours studying and working through rehabilitation for his own injuries and those of his patients. That experience informs the questions he asks about work, sleep, and the activities a patient wants to get back to.

5. Spinal Decompression Is the Practice’s Primary Specialty

The clinic’s work centers on evaluating patients with disc-related spinal conditions, determining whether decompression is appropriate, and following their progress. The process starts with the patient’s history and examination. Existing imaging is reviewed when available, and additional testing is considered when it could help clarify the diagnosis or guide care.

6. Seven Dedicated DRX9000 Systems

The clinic uses DRX9000 systems exclusively for spinal decompression. It has four lumbar systems for lower back treatment and three cervical systems for neck treatment. The equipment allows the clinic to adjust positioning and traction settings for the region being treated and the individual patient.

7. He Trains Other Doctors and Screens Carefully Before Recommending Treatment

Dr. Boelk founded the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he trains other doctors in treatment protocols, equipment use, and patient selection. Careful screening matters because patients with similar symptoms can need very different care. Some benefit from further rehabilitation or diagnostic work. Others need a surgical opinion before a conservative treatment plan can be considered.

What Does an MRI Tell You About Sciatica?

A lumbar disc herniation can irritate a nearby nerve root and cause pain that travels from the buttock into the thigh, calf, or foot. Some people also notice tingling, numbness, or weakness. The MRI helps show where a disc has changed and whether a nearby nerve could be affected. The examination helps determine whether that finding fits the symptoms.

For example, if an MRI shows disc changes at both L4-L5 and L5-S1, the size of each finding is one piece of the picture. Dr. Boelk also considers which side hurts, where the symptoms travel, and whether there are changes in strength, sensation, or reflexes. Those details help narrow down which finding deserves the most attention.

One thing you can do before your visit is keep track of where the symptoms travel, along with how intense they feel. Tell Dr. Boelk whether the discomfort stays in your lower back, reaches your calf, or goes all the way into your foot. If sitting consistently brings on symptoms, try taking a brief standing or walking break before your usual flare-up point, as tolerated. Bring those observations to the consultation along with any existing imaging.

For a closer look at one commonly affected level, read L5-S1 Disc Herniation Treatment Without Surgery.

What Happens During a Spinal Decompression Session?

1. The evaluation comes first. Dr. Boelk considers your history, examination findings, and available imaging. When clinically appropriate, the evaluation may include weight-bearing flexion and extension X-rays to assess how the spine moves. An MRI may be recommended if more information about the discs or nerves would help guide care.

2. You’re positioned on the appropriate DRX9000 system. For lower back treatment, supports and harnesses help hold you in position. Neck treatment uses dedicated cervical equipment.

3. The equipment delivers controlled traction cycles. The decompression portion of a visit typically lasts about 20–25 minutes. Let the staff know during the session if symptoms increase or begin traveling farther into an arm or leg.

4. Your progress is reassessed. Dr. Boelk reviews how your symptoms and daily function are changing. Mobility or stabilization work may be added when appropriate.

A Patient Who Went From Sciatica to Rebuilding His Strength

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“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

The Clinic Serves Carmel Valley From Its Kearny Mesa Office

Patients from Carmel Valley, Pacific Highlands Ranch, Del Mar, and Torrey Hills visit the clinic at 5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92123. If treatment is recommended, the office can explain the expected visit schedule so you can factor it into your work and family commitments.

The practice has also welcomed patients from outside California and from Mexico, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

A Patient Who Travels From the United Kingdom

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“I travel from the UK to see Dr Boelk and his wonderful team . I have 3 bulging disc and one is touching the nerve. I have the spinal decompression treatment and it really helps keep me in my active life . I will not go to anyone else for back treatment, this place is number one and they genuinely care about their patients.”

— Lisa S., United Kingdom

When Another Type of Care May Make More Sense

A history of spinal surgery, implanted hardware, a fracture, or suspected spinal instability can affect whether decompression is appropriate. Depending on the findings, Dr. Boelk may recommend a different conservative approach, additional testing, or a surgical consultation.

New or worsening weakness in an arm or leg warrants prompt medical evaluation. New loss of bowel or bladder control or numbness around the groin or saddle area requires emergency assessment.

A Patient Who Appreciated Getting a Clear Answer

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“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.”

— Toni W., Lake Elsinore, CA

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression in Carmel Valley

How many sessions might I need?

When appropriate, Dr. Boelk commonly recommends a program of about 12–24 visits, with progress reassessed along the way. Your diagnosis, goals, and response to the initial visits help guide the recommendation.

Do I need an MRI before scheduling a consultation?

You can schedule the consultation before obtaining an MRI. Bring any existing reports or images if you have them. Dr. Boelk can explain whether additional imaging would help clarify your condition or guide the next step.

Is spinal decompression covered by insurance?

Non-surgical spinal decompression is an elective, cash-pay service at the clinic. Eligible HSA or FSA funds may be used depending on your plan. The office can explain costs before you decide whether to begin care.

Can spinal decompression help me avoid surgery?

Some patients consider decompression as part of conservative care. Whether surgery is appropriate depends on the diagnosis, neurological findings, and how symptoms respond over time. If a surgical evaluation makes sense, Dr. Boelk will explain what led to that recommendation.

About Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

Clinic Director & Founder, The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego

• Board-Certified Doctor of Chiropractic

• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor

• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist

• California Licensed X-Ray Supervisor & Operator

• Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy

• Founding Member, American Spinal Decompression Society

• Member, International Disc Education Association

A Personal Message From Dr. Boelk

“After my own back fracture and later disc injuries, I know how frustrating it can be to have a scan in your hands and still wonder what you can do to get back to the things you enjoy. When we meet, I want to hear what has changed in your daily life and what you’ve already tried. Then we can talk about what your symptoms and imaging may tell us and what I’d consider doing next. If I think another type of care would serve you better, I’ll explain why.”

— Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

Schedule Your Complimentary Spinal Decompression Consultation

If you’re in Carmel Valley and have questions about a herniated disc, sciatica, or persistent neck or lower back pain, call 619-298-0800 or text 619-884-8298 to request a complimentary, no-charge, no-obligation consultation. Dr. Boelk meets personally with patients for these visits, and the front desk can help you find the next available time.

The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123
Office 619-298-0800
Text 619-884-8298
www.SanDiegoBackCare.com
Live 24/7 Answering Service • Hablamos Español