Spinal Decompression Treatment in Del Cerro, CA

If you live in Del Cerro and have been struggling with a herniated disc, sciatica, or chronic neck or lower back pain, you've probably wondered whether there's anything else you can do to get relief.

Maybe you've tried physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, medications, or injections. Perhaps you've been told that your MRI shows a herniated or degenerating disc, but you're still not sure what that means or what to do about it.

For some people, the worst part isn't even the pain itself. It's having to think about their back every time they sit down, get out of bed, go for a walk, or make plans with family.

And if surgery has been mentioned, it's understandable to want to explore your options before making that decision.

The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located in nearby Kearny Mesa, specializes in DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy.

The clinic 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.

With over 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions performed or overseen, seven DRX9000 systems, and extensive experience with disc-related spinal conditions, Dr. Boelk has dedicated much of his professional career to helping patients explore nonsurgical treatment options.

A Patient Who Wanted to Avoid Back Surgery

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"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."

— Calder Pearce, Patient Review

Calder's experience reflects something Dr. Boelk hears frequently: patients aren't necessarily looking for another temporary treatment. They want to understand what's causing their symptoms and whether there's a reasonable way to improve without surgery.

Call 619-298-0800 to request a complimentary, no-obligation spinal decompression consultation.

What Is Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy uses specialized equipment to apply controlled traction to the spine.

At Dr. Boelk's clinic, treatment is performed using the DRX9000 spinal decompression system, which delivers computer-controlled cycles of traction and relaxation.

The treatment is intended to reduce mechanical loading on spinal structures, including affected discs, and may help certain patients manage disc-related symptoms.

Unlike surgery, it doesn't involve incisions, anesthesia, or injections.

However, spinal decompression isn't appropriate for every condition, and research regarding its effectiveness remains mixed. A careful evaluation is important before beginning treatment.

For a closer look at how this treatment works, patients can read the clinic's article on DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Therapy.

7 Reasons Del Cerro Patients Choose Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

1. More Than 22 Years of Experience Treating Spinal Conditions

Dr. Boelk has spent more than two decades evaluating and treating patients with spinal conditions, particularly those involving damaged or degenerating discs.

Many of the patients he sees have already tried several treatments and are frustrated by persistent symptoms.

His experience includes:

• Lumbar disc herniations: Evaluating L4-L5, L5-S1, and other lumbar disc conditions associated with back pain, radiating leg symptoms, and limitations in daily activities.

• Cervical disc herniations: Working with patients experiencing neck pain and disc-related symptoms extending into the shoulders, arms, or hands.

• Sciatica: Assessing patients with burning, tingling, numbness, or radiating leg pain that may be associated with irritation of lumbar nerve roots.

• Degenerative disc disease: Helping patients understand their imaging findings and the relationship between disc degeneration, pain, and physical function.

• Persistent spinal pain: Evaluating patients who haven't experienced sufficient improvement with previous conservative treatments.

• Patients considering surgery: Helping patients understand whether further conservative care is reasonable or whether specialist evaluation is needed.

His clinical experience is particularly relevant for patients who have been dealing with spinal symptoms for months or years.

2. Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Sessions Performed

Dr. Boelk has performed or overseen more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions throughout his career.

That experience involves much more than operating a machine.

It includes:

• Reviewing patients' medical histories and previous treatments.

• Evaluating X-rays and MRI findings when clinically appropriate.

• Determining whether a patient may be a suitable candidate.

• Selecting treatment positioning and traction parameters.

• Monitoring changes in pain, mobility, and radiating symptoms.

• Adjusting treatment recommendations according to patient response.

• Recognizing when treatment should be discontinued or another specialist consulted.

This extensive clinical experience has helped Dr. Boelk develop a structured approach to spinal decompression treatment.

3. Specialized Training in Spinal Decompression and Rehabilitation

Dr. Boelk has pursued additional training in nonsurgical spinal decompression, rehabilitation, and physical performance.

His professional qualifications include:

• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor: Specialized training focused on nonsurgical spinal decompression techniques, treatment protocols, and patient selection.

• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist: Additional training emphasizing movement, mobility, exercise modification, strength, and physical performance.

• Founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy: Established a program to educate other doctors in nonsurgical spinal decompression protocols.

• Spinal Decompression Instructor: Provides instruction to other practitioners regarding decompression procedures, clinical considerations, and equipment use.

Dr. Boelk also emphasizes appropriate rehabilitation because many patients want more than temporary symptom improvement.

They want to return to walking, exercising, working, traveling, and enjoying everyday activities.

4. Personal Experience With Serious Spinal Injuries

Dr. Boelk's understanding of spinal injuries comes from both his professional training and personal experience.

At age 16, he sustained a significant lumbar spinal fracture involving spondylolisthesis.

Later, he experienced lumbar disc herniations, sciatica, and neck and lower back problems.

He understands what it's like to have spinal symptoms interfere with everyday life.

His personal experiences include:

• Living with a serious lumbar spinal injury from a young age.

• Experiencing the pain and limitations associated with disc herniations and sciatica.

• Learning how different exercises and activities affect spinal symptoms.

• Spending thousands of hours studying and practicing rehabilitation strategies.

• Continuing to participate in surfing, golf, strength training, and other sports while managing his spinal history.

• Applying his personal experiences alongside his professional training when helping patients.

For patients who worry they'll never return to their favorite activities, having a doctor who understands those concerns firsthand can make a meaningful difference in the treatment experience.

5. Spinal Decompression Is the Primary Specialty of His Practice

Many chiropractic offices offer spinal decompression as one of numerous services.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, nonsurgical spinal decompression is the primary clinical specialty.

The practice focuses extensively on evaluating and treating appropriately selected patients with disc-related spinal conditions.

That includes:

• Assessing patients with herniated discs, bulging discs, and disc-related sciatica.

• Reviewing relevant medical history and diagnostic findings.

• Determining whether decompression is appropriate before recommending treatment.

• Individualizing treatment settings and recommendations.

• Incorporating appropriate mobility and stabilization exercises.

• Reassessing progress throughout a treatment program.

This specialized focus is one reason patients travel from outside the immediate San Diego area to seek Dr. Boelk's care.

6. Seven Dedicated DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Systems

The clinic has seven DRX9000 spinal decompression systems, including:

• Four lumbar DRX9000 systems: Dedicated to treating appropriately selected patients with lower back conditions.

• Three cervical DRX9000 systems: Dedicated to treating appropriately selected patients with neck conditions.

• Computer-controlled traction: Regulated cycles of traction and relaxation.

• Adjustable treatment parameters: Settings selected according to clinical findings and patient tolerance.

• Specialized positioning: Equipment designed to stabilize and position patients during treatment.

• Dedicated treatment facilities: A clinical environment built around providing spinal decompression care.

Having this equipment allows the clinic to focus extensively on cervical and lumbar spinal decompression rather than offering it only occasionally.

7. He Trains Other Doctors and Is Honest About Who Shouldn't Receive Treatment

Dr. Boelk founded the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, based at his San Diego practice, where he teaches other doctors about nonsurgical spinal decompression techniques and treatment protocols.

An important part of that training involves appropriate patient selection.

Not every person with a herniated disc or back pain should receive spinal decompression.

Dr. Boelk considers:

• Previous spinal surgeries and the presence of surgical hardware.

• Spinal fractures, instability, and other potential contraindications.

• Neurological symptoms that may require additional evaluation.

• Relevant X-ray and MRI findings.

• Whether other conservative treatments may be more appropriate.

• Whether a patient should seek an orthopedic or neurosurgical opinion.

Sometimes the most valuable thing a doctor can do is explain why a particular treatment isn't appropriate.

Understanding Herniated Discs and Sciatica

A herniated disc occurs when material from inside an intervertebral disc extends through its outer layers.

Depending on its location, a herniated disc may irritate or compress a nearby nerve root.

This can contribute to symptoms such as:

• Lower back pain

• Pain extending into the buttock or leg

• Burning or tingling sensations

• Numbness in the leg or foot

• Difficulty sitting or walking comfortably

• Certain patterns of muscle weakness

Not every herniated disc causes symptoms, and not all sciatica comes from a disc herniation.

For patients interested in learning more, the clinic has a detailed article explaining spinal decompression for herniated discs.

Why Does Sciatica Sometimes Keep Coming Back?

Sciatica can be frustrating because symptoms may improve for a while and then return.

Some people feel relatively comfortable when lying down but experience increased symptoms while sitting, bending, driving, or walking.

Others notice pain traveling into the buttock, thigh, calf, or foot.

The underlying cause matters because sciatica is a description of symptoms rather than a single diagnosis.

Disc herniations, spinal narrowing, and other conditions may contribute to nerve irritation.

Patients can learn more about the causes and conservative treatment options in the clinic's article on spinal decompression for sciatica nerve pain.

What Happens During a DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Session?

For Del Cerro residents who have never experienced spinal decompression, understanding the treatment process can make the decision easier.

Initial Evaluation

Before recommending treatment, Dr. Boelk reviews the patient's symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, and relevant diagnostic findings.

A physical examination and additional imaging may be recommended when appropriate.

Positioning on the DRX9000

For lumbar decompression, patients lie on the DRX9000 table using specialized harnesses and supports.

For cervical treatment, dedicated equipment is used for the neck.

Computer-Controlled Treatment

The equipment delivers controlled traction and relaxation cycles.

Treatment parameters are selected according to the patient's condition, clinical findings, and tolerance.

Sessions generally last approximately 20–25 minutes.

Rehabilitation and Activity Guidance

Depending on the patient's needs, treatment may be combined with mobility exercises, stabilization training, and recommendations for modifying activities that aggravate symptoms.

What If You've Already Tried Other Treatments?

Many patients who contact Dr. Boelk's office have already tried physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, medications, injections, or other approaches.

Sometimes these treatments provide meaningful relief. Other times, symptoms persist.

When that happens, it's worth reassessing the diagnosis and available options rather than assuming that repeating the same treatment will produce a different outcome.

A Patient Who Had Tried Multiple Approaches

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"I've had a great experience at The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego. I had visited a couple places before beginning treatment, had a great feeling about Dr. Boelk and the staff, and how their approach was a full body treatment, using nutrition, exercises, and more. I was in terrible shape before, with fairly constant pain that affected all aspects of my life, but now am fully mobile. I have phased out regular visits and go in infrequently but still have the best care. I highly recommend, thanks for all, Doc!"

— David Wasserman, Patient Review

Spinal Decompression Treatment for Active Del Cerro Residents

Del Cerro is a community where many residents enjoy staying active, whether that's walking through the neighborhood, hiking around Mission Trails, playing golf, working out, or spending time outdoors with family.

Unfortunately, disc-related pain can make these activities difficult.

Some patients find that they can walk only short distances before symptoms increase. Others struggle with prolonged sitting, lifting, bending, or getting comfortable at night.

At Dr. Boelk's clinic, treatment planning considers not only pain levels but also the patient's goals and physical limitations.

For some patients, that means improving walking tolerance. For others, it means returning to exercise, sleeping more comfortably, or participating in everyday activities with fewer limitations.

Patients Travel From Outside California and Overseas

While Del Cerro residents have relatively convenient access to the Kearny Mesa clinic, some patients travel much farther to see Dr. Boelk.

The practice has welcomed patients from other states and countries including Mexico, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

A Patient Who Traveled From Las Vegas

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"My name is Ira Smith. I live in Las Vegas and found out about Dr. Boelk’s program here in San Diego and decided to start treatments with him. I’ve had lower back problems since I was very young. I had aggravated my lower back pretty bad again and usually I could do exercises, chiropractic treatment, rest and this time those things would no longer relieve my pain. I would get the sciatic pain shooting down into my leg and foot and be pretty bad. I found out thru my MRI’s that Dr. Boelk went over with me that I had 5 protruding discs. I did not want to get surgery as I have heard and seen that they don’t always work very well at all. I am 2/3 of the way done with Dr. Boelk’s program and I have zero pain. I pretty much go thru my activities with no pain. As I follow the program it has been absolutely fantastic! I have been thru physical therapy, chiropractic programs, I went to the hospital and they told me I have 1 bad disc, but I found out I had 4 more bad discs as well. The treatment has relieved the pain and is not painful at all. This can be the starting point for anyone with back pain to get their life back. This is the place to start. If your skeptical, what’s your health worth? The cost of this has been way less than the cost of all my other therapies that I have gone thru. This is less money than all those things, less pain and gives you a great quality of life. This is new and modern and it fixes the problem. Use Dr. Boelk’s program to change your life and it will change your life! This is the place to start. -Thank You"

— Ira Smith, Las Vegas, Nevada

Not Everyone Is a Candidate for Spinal Decompression

Although many patients contact the clinic hoping to avoid surgery, Dr. Boelk does not recommend spinal decompression to everyone.

Certain conditions, including spinal instability, fractures, surgical hardware, or significant neurological findings, may make decompression inappropriate.

Some patients need additional diagnostic testing, other conservative treatment, or evaluation by a spinal surgeon.

New or progressive weakness warrants prompt medical evaluation. New bowel or bladder dysfunction or saddle numbness requires emergency assessment.

A Patient Who Appreciated an Honest Recommendation

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"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."

— Jeff J., Tucson, Arizona

Conveniently Located for Del Cerro Residents

The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego is located in Kearny Mesa at:

5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92123

The office welcomes patients from Del Cerro, San Carlos, Allied Gardens, Tierrasanta, Serra Mesa, and surrounding communities.

For patients attending multiple treatments over several weeks, having a clinic within a reasonable distance can make scheduling and maintaining a treatment plan more manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression in Del Cerro

How many spinal decompression treatments will I need?

Treatment recommendations depend on the patient's condition and response to care.

When appropriate, Dr. Boelk commonly recommends structured programs involving approximately 12–24 sessions, with progress reassessed throughout treatment.

Is spinal decompression painful?

Treatment is designed to be controlled and tolerable. However, some patients experience temporary discomfort or changes in symptoms. Patients should report concerning symptoms during treatment.

Is spinal decompression covered by insurance?

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy is generally an elective, cash-pay service at the clinic and is not typically covered by health insurance.

Eligible HSA or FSA funds may be accepted depending on the patient's plan.

Can spinal decompression help me avoid surgery?

Some patients explore spinal decompression as part of conservative treatment before considering surgery.

However, whether surgery is necessary depends on the underlying condition, neurological findings, and clinical circumstances. Decompression cannot guarantee that surgery will be avoided.

Do I need an MRI before starting treatment?

Not every patient requires an MRI. Dr. Boelk reviews the patient's symptoms, examination findings, and available imaging to determine whether additional diagnostic testing is necessary.

Schedule a Complimentary Spinal Decompression Consultation

If you're living in Del Cerro and struggling with a herniated disc, sciatica, or persistent neck or lower back pain, Dr. Boelk offers a limited number of complimentary, no-obligation spinal decompression consultations.

During your consultation, you can:

• Discuss your symptoms and previous treatments.

• Review your medical history and available imaging.

• Learn how DRX9000 spinal decompression works.

• Discuss whether further evaluation may be appropriate.

• Understand the next steps if you're interested in exploring treatment.

The complimentary consultation does not include a physical examination, X-rays, or treatment.

There's no obligation to begin a treatment program.

About Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

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

Dr. Boelk has dedicated more than 22 years to helping patients with disc-related spinal conditions, sciatica, and chronic neck and lower back pain.

His approach combines extensive clinical experience with specialized spinal decompression training and a personal understanding of serious spinal injuries.

Professional Credentials & Experience

• Doctor of Chiropractic: Over 22 years of clinical experience evaluating and treating spinal conditions, including disc herniations, sciatica, and chronic neck and lower back pain.

• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor: Additional professional training focused on nonsurgical spinal decompression techniques, treatment protocols, and patient selection.

• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist: Specialized training in movement, rehabilitation, exercise modification, strength, mobility, and physical performance.

• Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy: Established an educational program to train other doctors in nonsurgical spinal decompression techniques and protocols.

• Spinal Decompression Instructor: Provides professional instruction on decompression equipment, treatment procedures, clinical considerations, and appropriate patient selection.

• Founding Member, American Spinal Decompression Society: Professional involvement in the field of nonsurgical spinal decompression.

• Member, International Disc Education Association: Professional affiliation focused on education relating to spinal disc conditions.

• Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Sessions Performed: Extensive clinical experience administering and overseeing nonsurgical spinal decompression treatment.

• DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Specialist: Operates a practice equipped with seven dedicated DRX9000 systems, including four lumbar and three cervical units.

• Personal Experience With Serious Spinal Injuries: Has personally experienced lumbar spinal fractures, disc herniations, sciatica, and neck and lower back problems, informing his approach to patient care and rehabilitation.

Contact The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego

Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC
Clinic Director & Founder

Office Address:
5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300
San Diego, CA 92123

Phone: 619-298-0800
Website: www.SanDiegoBackCare.com

24/7 Answering Service Available
Hablamos Español

Call 619-298-0800 today to request your complimentary, no-obligation spinal decompression consultation and learn whether DRX9000 treatment may be appropriate for you.