Spinal Decompression Treatment in Mission Hills, CA

Living with a herniated disc, sciatica, or persistent neck or lower back pain can gradually change the way you go about your day.

Maybe sitting through dinner has become uncomfortable. Perhaps you're waking up with back pain, avoiding certain exercises, or finding that even a short drive aggravates the pain traveling down your leg.

For many people, the most frustrating part is trying treatment after treatment without understanding why the symptoms keep returning.

If you're living in Mission Hills and have been told you have a herniated disc, bulging disc, degenerative disc disease, or sciatica, you may be wondering whether there's another treatment option available before considering surgery.

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 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.

Dr. Boelk has performed or overseen more than 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions and operates a practice equipped with seven dedicated DRX9000 systems.

His focus is helping patients understand their spinal conditions, explore appropriate nonsurgical treatment options, and make informed decisions about their care.

A Patient Who Was Able to Return to His Normal Routine

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"I have been seeing Dr. Boelk since November for my back pain due to disc herniation. I lost mobility and had difficulty even putting shoes on. The pain was interfering with my everyday lifestyle. After reviewing the X-ray results, we agreed upon a treatment plan. Agreeing to this treatment plan was the best choice I've made for my back pain. The spinal decompression has relieved all the pain I felt in my lower back. I can walk, run and exercise without any pain and I'm able to get back in the gym and continue my daily routines. The office staff are very friendly and caring as well. I highly recommend Dr. Boelk's office to anyone seeking exceptional care."

— Paul C., Patient Review

For patients whose back pain interferes with everyday activities, finding out whether they're appropriate candidates for spinal decompression can be an important first step.

Start With a Complimentary, No-Obligation Spinal Decompression Consultation

Before committing to another treatment program, wouldn't it be helpful to sit down with a doctor who specializes in spinal decompression and discuss your situation?

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 care, 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 treatment 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 an informational discussion 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.

Patients who want to understand the equipment and treatment process can read more about DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Therapy.

7 Reasons Mission Hills Patients Choose Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

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

Clinical 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, particularly those who have already tried several conservative treatment approaches.

His clinical experience includes:

• Lumbar disc herniations: Evaluating L4-L5, L5-S1, and other lumbar disc problems 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 exercising, walking, golfing, traveling, 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 Mission Hills 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 Appreciated the Clinic's Approach

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"Dr. Boelk is professional, kind, and truly prioritizes his patients’ health. The spinal decompression treatments, combined with the exercises and guidance he provided, have reduced my back pain to the point that I can sleep again. Traditional chiropractic adjustments did not help my lower back—but spinal decompression did. I highly recommend Dr. Boelk."

— Steve Robinson, Patient Review

Convenient Spinal Decompression Treatment for Mission Hills Residents

Mission Hills is known for its established neighborhoods, historic homes, walkable streets, and proximity to many of San Diego's restaurants, parks, and recreational activities.

For residents who enjoy walking, exercise, golf, or simply staying active, persistent back or neck pain can become a significant limitation.

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

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

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.

The clinic's Kearny Mesa location is accessible from Mission Hills via major San Diego roadways.

Patients Travel From Outside California and Overseas

Although Mission Hills residents have convenient access to the Kearny Mesa clinic, 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 Traveled From Alaska

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"My name is Lynn. I am from Alaska, and I just want to say it was totally worth taking a trip to go to the Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego. I was having pain radiating down my legs, I couldn’t sleep, I could barely walk. After treatment I am back to shoveling snow, teaching school, taking walks. So, I just want to thank Dr. Boelk and the clinic, you guys are wonderful, and you have created such a wonderful, friendly, kind and truly caring atmosphere. I highly encourage anybody that might be considering spinal decompression therapy, it really makes a difference."

— Lynn C., Alaska

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 decided to see Dr. Boelk after a pretty gnarly motocoss neck injury. At the Hospital I was at, I felt I was getting pressured into a surgery which I refused. A friend of a friend referred him after Dr. Boelk successfully treated his broken back. Dr. Boelk is a compassionate individual who truly cares about his patients. He looked at my MRI images, explained what he saw and potential routes for recovery. He could not treat me as I have to wait until the fracture in my neck heals, but the level of professionalism, compassion, caring and knowledge displayed by him was exceptional. He also recommended to seek an additional opinion form another neurosurgeon. My experience was that he really cares and he's not someone who would take advantage of the situation someone's in (unlike some other doctors). I will definitely be back and already recommended him to others as well! Thank you Dr. Boelk!"

— Jan H., San Marcos, CA

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression in Mission Hills

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 Mission Hills 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.