Spinal Decompression Treatment in Del Mar, CA

Living in Del Mar offers plenty of opportunities to stay active. Whether you enjoy walking along the beach, surfing, playing golf, hiking, or exercising regularly, being able to move comfortably is an important part of everyday life.

But when a herniated disc, sciatica, or chronic neck or lower back pain begins interfering with those activities, even simple things can become frustrating.

Maybe sitting through a long drive aggravates the pain in your lower back. Perhaps you've started avoiding certain exercises because they trigger symptoms down your leg. Or maybe you've tried physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, medications, or injections, only to find that the relief doesn't last.

If you've been told that surgery may be necessary, it's understandable to want to explore appropriate nonsurgical options before making that decision.

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 spinal 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 operates a practice equipped with seven dedicated DRX9000 spinal decompression systems.

His clinical focus is helping patients better understand their spinal conditions, evaluate appropriate treatment options, and work toward returning to the activities that matter most to them.

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 illustrates why some patients explore additional conservative treatment options when previous approaches haven't provided the improvement they hoped for.

Start With a Complimentary, No-Obligation Spinal Decompression Consultation

Before committing to another treatment program, you deserve an opportunity to discuss your situation with a doctor who specializes in spinal decompression.

Dr. Boelk offers a complimentary, no-charge, no-obligation consultation for individuals interested in learning whether spinal decompression may be an appropriate option.

Here's What Your Complimentary Consultation Includes

• Discuss Your Symptoms: Explain where you're experiencing pain, how long you've had it, and how it's affecting your sleep, work, exercise, and daily activities.

• Review Treatments You've Already Tried: Discuss previous physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, medications, injections, surgeries, or home exercises and whether they provided relief.

• Discuss Your Existing X-Rays or MRI: If you have previous diagnostic imaging, Dr. Boelk can discuss the available findings and how they may relate to your symptoms.

• Learn How DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Works: Understand the treatment process, how the equipment operates, and what a typical session involves.

• Discuss Whether You May Be a Candidate: Based on your symptoms, history, and available information, Dr. Boelk can explain whether further evaluation for spinal decompression may be appropriate.

• Understand Your Next Steps: If spinal decompression appears worth exploring, you'll learn what additional examination or diagnostic testing may be necessary before treatment can be recommended.

No pressure. No obligation. Just an opportunity to get answers.

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

Call 619-298-0800 to schedule your complimentary spinal decompression consultation.

What Is DRX9000 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 intervertebral discs.

Unlike surgery, spinal decompression does not involve incisions, general anesthesia, or injections.

For some appropriately selected patients, it may be considered as part of a conservative treatment program for certain disc-related conditions.

Research regarding nonsurgical spinal decompression remains mixed, and treatment cannot guarantee that a herniated disc will reverse or that surgery will be avoided.

For a more detailed explanation, read the clinic's article about DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Therapy.

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

When choosing a doctor for spinal decompression, it's worth considering more than simply whether an office offers traction therapy.

Experience, specialized training, appropriate equipment, and honest patient selection are important considerations.

1. More Than 22 Years of Experience Treating Spinal Conditions

Dr. Boelk has spent more than two decades evaluating and treating patients with disc-related spinal conditions, including individuals who have already tried multiple conservative treatment approaches.

His clinical experience includes:

• Lumbar Disc Herniations: Evaluating L4-L5, L5-S1, and other lumbar disc conditions associated with lower back pain, radiating leg symptoms, and limitations with sitting, bending, or walking.

• Cervical Disc Herniations: Working with patients experiencing neck pain and symptoms extending into the shoulders, arms, or hands.

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

• Degenerative Disc Disease: Helping patients understand how spinal disc changes may relate to symptoms and physical function.

• Persistent Neck and Lower Back Pain: Evaluating patients who haven't experienced sufficient improvement with previous conservative treatments.

• Patients Considering Surgery: Helping patients determine whether further nonsurgical treatment is reasonable or whether surgical evaluation is more appropriate.

Many patients come to the clinic after months or years of searching for answers.

Dr. Boelk's experience helps guide an individualized approach rather than assuming every patient has the same problem.

2. Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Treatment Sessions Performed

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

That experience involves much more than simply operating equipment.

It includes:

• Reviewing medical histories and previous treatment experiences.

• Evaluating clinical findings and available diagnostic imaging.

• Determining whether a patient may be a suitable candidate for decompression.

• Selecting treatment positioning and traction parameters.

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

• Reassessing treatment progress and modifying recommendations when appropriate.

• Recognizing when another treatment approach or specialist evaluation may be necessary.

This extensive experience has helped shape the clinic's patient screening procedures and treatment protocols.

3. Specialized Training in Spinal Decompression and Physical Rehabilitation

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

His qualifications include:

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

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

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

• Spinal Decompression Instructor: Provides professional instruction regarding decompression equipment, treatment procedures, and clinical considerations.

For patients who want to return to surfing, golfing, walking, exercising, or simply moving more comfortably, appropriate rehabilitation can be an important part of their overall care.

4. A Doctor Who Personally Understands Serious Spinal Injuries

Dr. Boelk's interest in spinal rehabilitation is also personal.

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

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

His personal experience includes:

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

• Experiencing disc-related pain and sciatica.

• Understanding how spinal symptoms can interfere with work, sleep, and recreational activities.

• 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.

Dr. Boelk understands the frustration of spinal injuries not only as a doctor, but also as someone who has personally experienced them.

5. Spinal Decompression Is the Primary Specialty of the 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, examination findings, and diagnostic imaging.

• Determining whether decompression is appropriate before recommending treatment.

• Individualizing treatment recommendations and equipment settings.

• Incorporating rehabilitation and activity guidance when appropriate.

• Reassessing patient progress throughout treatment.

For patients specifically seeking spinal decompression, this specialized clinical focus may be an important distinction.

6. Seven Dedicated DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Systems

The clinic is equipped with seven dedicated DRX9000 spinal decompression systems, including:

• Four Lumbar DRX9000 Systems: Used for appropriately selected patients with lower back conditions.

• Three Cervical DRX9000 Systems: Used for appropriately selected patients with neck conditions.

• Computer-Controlled Traction: The equipment delivers regulated cycles of traction and relaxation.

• Adjustable Treatment Settings: Traction parameters can be selected according to clinical findings and patient tolerance.

• Specialized Positioning and Stabilization: Dedicated supports and harnesses help position patients during treatment.

• A Practice Designed Around Spinal Decompression: The clinic's equipment reflects its extensive focus on nonsurgical spinal care.

No spinal decompression machine is appropriate for every spinal condition. Patient selection and clinical judgment remain essential.

7. He Trains Other Doctors — and Knows When Not to Treat

Dr. Boelk founded the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he teaches other doctors about nonsurgical spinal decompression techniques, treatment protocols, and patient selection.

An important part of his clinical approach is recognizing when decompression may not be appropriate.

That includes:

• Evaluating patients with previous spinal surgeries or surgical hardware.

• Recognizing spinal instability, fractures, and other potential contraindications.

• Reviewing neurological findings that may require additional evaluation.

• Considering X-rays and MRI findings when clinically relevant.

• Recommending additional testing or surgical consultation when necessary.

• Being straightforward about treatment expectations and the possibility that decompression may not help.

The goal isn't to recommend spinal decompression to everyone. It's to determine whether it may be appropriate for the individual patient.

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 is caused by a disc herniation.

Patients can learn more in the clinic's article about spinal decompression for herniated discs.

Why Can Sciatica Be So Difficult to Get Rid Of?

Sciatica can be frustrating because symptoms may improve temporarily and then return.

Some patients feel better when lying down but experience increased symptoms when sitting, bending, driving, or walking.

Others experience pain that travels 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.

For additional information, patients can read the clinic's article on spinal decompression for sciatica nerve pain.

What Happens During a DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Treatment?

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

Initial Evaluation

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 clinically appropriate.

Positioning on the DRX9000

For lumbar treatment, 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 regulated cycles of traction and relaxation.

Treatment settings are individualized according to clinical findings and patient tolerance.

Sessions generally last approximately 20–25 minutes.

Rehabilitation and Activity Guidance

Depending on individual 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 Returned to His Normal Activities

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"When I first came here I was suffering from sciatica pain for several months non stop. I tried many different non invasive treatments, pain killers but relief was just temporary. I heard about Dr. Boelk on social media and after reading other people testimonials about him I decided to try. It felt better since my first session. After 12 I felt I was improving a lot but still had room to get better so we decided trying 12 more. After 36 sessions I felt I was back to normal. I could get back to surf, jiu jitsu and work after 6 months away. Doctor helped me through the whole process, leaving me free to decide the next step and being honest about expectations. I totally recommend for all my friends that suffer from sciatica pain. It’s worth 100%."

— Yuri Fresia, Patient Review

Spinal Decompression for Active Del Mar Residents

Del Mar is known for its beaches, coastal trails, golf courses, and outdoor lifestyle.

For residents who enjoy walking along the coast, surfing, hiking at Torrey Pines, playing golf, or staying active at the gym, spinal pain can become a significant obstacle.

Some patients struggle with prolonged sitting or commuting. Others find that bending, lifting, exercising, or walking for extended periods aggravates their symptoms.

At Dr. Boelk's clinic, treatment planning considers both the patient's symptoms and their functional goals.

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

Patients Travel From Outside California and Overseas

Although Del Mar residents can reach the Kearny Mesa clinic by driving south into central San Diego, some patients travel considerably farther to seek Dr. Boelk's expertise.

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

A Patient Who Travels From the United Kingdom

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"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

Not Everyone Is a Candidate for Spinal Decompression

One of the most important parts of Dr. Boelk's approach is determining whether a patient is an appropriate candidate before recommending treatment.

Some individuals require additional diagnostic testing, a different conservative treatment approach, or surgical evaluation.

Factors affecting suitability may include spinal instability, fractures, certain previous spinal surgeries, neurological findings, and other medical conditions.

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

A Patient Who Appreciated an Honest Evaluation

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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 Mar 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 Mar, Carmel Valley, Solana Beach, Torrey Pines, University City, La Jolla, and surrounding communities.

For patients attending multiple treatments over several weeks, choosing a specialized clinic within a reasonable driving distance can make maintaining a treatment schedule more manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression in Del Mar

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. Some patients may experience temporary discomfort or changes in symptoms, and patients should communicate concerning symptoms during treatment.

Is DRX9000 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 care before considering surgery.

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 spinal decompression?

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

Ready to Learn Whether Spinal Decompression May Be Right for You?

If you're living in Del Mar and dealing with a herniated disc, sciatica, or persistent neck or lower back pain, you don't have to commit to a treatment program just to learn about your options.

Dr. Boelk offers a complimentary, no-charge, no-obligation consultation to discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, and whether further evaluation for DRX9000 spinal decompression may be appropriate.

The consultation is informational and does not include an examination, new X-rays, or treatment.

Call 619-298-0800 today to schedule your complimentary spinal decompression consultation.

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.