Spinal Decompression Treatment in Solana Beach, CA
Maybe you can walk along Fletcher Cove without much trouble, but the drive home brings the pain right back. Or you feel fine getting out of bed, only to notice burning down your leg halfway through the workday. When sciatica keeps returning, it can be hard to tell whether you’re getting better or simply finding more ways to avoid setting it off.
The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, located in Kearny Mesa, serves Solana Beach patients who want to understand their options for herniated discs, disc bulges, sciatica, and persistent neck or lower back pain. The practice specializes in DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy for appropriately selected patients.
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. He has performed or overseen more than 100,000 spinal decompression sessions, and the clinic is equipped with seven dedicated DRX9000 systems.
A Patient Who Wanted to Get Back to Surfing and Work
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“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
Start With a Complimentary, No-Obligation Spinal Decompression Consultation
If you’ve already spent time and money trying to resolve the problem, you may want to know what a spinal decompression evaluation would add. The complimentary consultation gives you a chance to ask Dr. Boelk directly and discuss whether a formal evaluation makes sense for you.
What Your Complimentary Consultation Includes
-
Discuss your symptoms. Describe where the pain starts, where it travels, and what happens when you sit, drive, walk, exercise, or sleep.
-
Review what you’ve already tried. Discuss physical therapy, adjustments, medications, injections, surgery, or home exercises and whether any improvement lasted.
-
Discuss your existing X-rays or MRI. Bring your reports and images if you have them. Dr. Boelk can discuss the available findings and how they may relate to your symptoms.
-
Learn how DRX9000 spinal decompression works. Find out how you’re positioned on the table, how traction is applied, and what a session typically involves.
-
Discuss whether you may be a candidate. Your history and the information available help Dr. Boelk decide whether further evaluation for decompression is appropriate.
-
Understand your next steps. If a physical exam, updated imaging, or another type of evaluation is recommended, you’ll have time to ask questions before deciding how to proceed.
The consultation is complimentary and carries no obligation. The physical examination, new X-rays, and treatment are separate services. The office explains the fees before you decide whether to proceed.
Call 619-298-0800 or text 619-884-8298 to request a complimentary consultation.
What Is DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy?
The DRX9000 uses a motorized table to apply controlled traction to the spine. You lie supported while the machine cycles between traction and reduced pull. Dr. Boelk selects the positioning and settings based on the region being treated, the examination findings, and how you tolerate the session.
Decompression may be considered as part of conservative care for selected patients with disc-related symptoms. Studies on mechanical traction for lower back pain with radiating symptoms have found mixed results. Some report short-term improvement, and the evidence for lasting benefit remains limited. That makes reassessment important. If you’re being treated for leg pain that comes on after 15 minutes of driving, whether you can drive longer with fewer symptoms is one measure worth following.
Learn more about DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Therapy.
7 Reasons Solana Beach Patients Choose Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC
1. More Than 22 Years of Experience With Disc-Related Conditions
Dr. Boelk evaluates patients with lower back and neck disc herniations, sciatica, and symptoms extending into the arms or legs. He often sees people who have already tried several kinds of care. Knowing which treatments helped, which made symptoms worse, and how long the changes lasted helps guide the next evaluation.
2. More Than 100,000 Spinal Decompression Sessions Performed or Overseen
That experience has shaped how the practice screens patients, chooses treatment settings, and decides when to reassess. A session can feel comfortable on the table. The follow-up question is how you felt later that day and whether an activity that usually brings on symptoms became easier.
3. Specialized Training in Decompression and Rehabilitation
Dr. Boelk’s training as a Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor and Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist informs both the treatment evaluation and the plan for returning to activity. When appropriate, care can include mobility, stabilization, and guidance on resuming exercise.
4. Personal Experience Recovering From Serious Back Injuries
Dr. Boelk fractured his lower back at 16 and later dealt with disc herniations and sciatica. He has spent thousands of hours working on rehabilitation for his own injuries and helping patients rehabilitate theirs. As someone who surfs, plays golf, and strength trains, he understands how frustrating it can be to wonder whether you’ll get back to an activity you enjoy.
5. Spinal Decompression Is the Practice’s Primary Specialty
The clinic’s work centers on evaluating patients for decompression, reviewing relevant imaging, and monitoring how they respond if treatment is recommended. When clinically appropriate, the evaluation may include weight-bearing flexion and extension X-rays to assess movement between vertebrae. MRI is considered case by case when more information about the discs or nerves would help guide care.
6. Seven Dedicated DRX9000 Systems
The practice uses DRX9000 equipment exclusively for spinal decompression. It has four lumbar systems for the lower back and three cervical systems for the neck. The dedicated equipment allows Dr. Boelk to adjust the positioning and traction settings for the area being treated and the patient’s tolerance.
7. He Trains Other Doctors and Explains When to Consider Other Care
Dr. Boelk founded the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he trains other doctors in treatment protocols, equipment use, and patient selection. That training includes recognizing when a patient would be better served by further testing, a different conservative approach, or a surgical opinion.
Why Does Sciatica Feel Better and Then Come Back?
Sciatica describes pain or other symptoms that travel along the leg. A lumbar disc herniation is one possible cause. When a nearby nerve root is irritated, you may feel burning, tingling, numbness, or pain in the buttock, thigh, calf, or foot. The pattern can change with position and activity.
Where the symptoms travel and how much activity brings them on are worth tracking. Say your pain is a four out of ten at the end of a drive. At one point it reached your foot after ten minutes. Now it stays mostly in the buttock and comes on after twenty-five minutes. Both drives ended at a four, but the change in location and sitting tolerance gives your clinician more information than the pain score alone.
Before your visit, pick one everyday activity that reliably brings on symptoms. Write down how long you can do it, where the symptoms travel, and how long they take to settle. On longer drives, try taking a brief standing or walking break before symptoms typically start, as tolerated. Those details can help Dr. Boelk connect your history to the examination and any existing MRI findings.
For more on how an affected disc can contribute to leg symptoms, read L5-S1 Disc Herniation Treatment Without Surgery.
What Happens During a DRX9000 Session?
-
Dr. Boelk reviews the evaluation. Your history, examination, and relevant imaging guide the treatment recommendation.
-
You’re positioned on the appropriate table. Supports help position you for either lower back or neck treatment.
-
The table applies controlled cycles of traction. The decompression portion typically lasts around 20–25 minutes. Tell the staff if you notice increased pain, tingling, or symptoms traveling farther into an arm or leg.
-
Your progress is reviewed. Dr. Boelk may ask about changes in sleep, sitting tolerance, walking, or radiating symptoms. Mobility or stabilization exercises may be added when appropriate.
A Patient Who Had Already Tried Chiropractic Care
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Had terrible low back pain last year, had gone with a traditional chiropractor but didn’t feel it was doing much.
Went to this place and after talking to Dr Boelk decided to try spinal decompression therapy. After 3 session my pain was almost completely gone.
The staff is very professional and friendly. A big plus is how you get to go at your appointment time instead of waiting.
I would say the only negative is that is not covered by insurance so you have to pay out of pocket but it you can afford it is 100% worth it.”
— Edgar R., San Diego, CA
Serving Solana Beach Patients From Kearny Mesa
The clinic is located at 5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92123. It welcomes patients from Solana Beach, Del Mar, Carmel Valley, and surrounding communities. If a course of care is recommended, the office can go over the visit schedule so you can see how it fits around work and family commitments.
Patients have also traveled from other states and from Mexico, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom.
A Patient From Peoria, Arizona
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Dr Boelk is highly knowledgeable and has made a difference in my life.
I have a degenerative bone issue in my lower back. Spinal decompression is the only way that gives me relief all the way to my feet. I highly recommend the Spinal Decompression center.”
— Dee M., Peoria, AZ
When Another Type of Care May Be More Appropriate
Previous spinal surgery, implanted hardware, a fracture, or suspected instability can affect whether decompression is appropriate. Some patients need additional testing, a different conservative approach, or a surgical evaluation.
New or worsening arm or leg weakness warrants prompt medical evaluation. Seek emergency care for new difficulty urinating, loss of bowel or bladder control, or numbness around the groin or saddle area.
A Patient Who Appreciated a Straightforward Recommendation
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“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, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression in Solana Beach
How many sessions might I need?
When appropriate, Dr. Boelk commonly recommends a structured program of about 12–24 sessions, with progress reassessed during care. The recommendation depends on your condition, your goals, and how you respond.
Do I need an MRI before my consultation?
You can schedule the consultation before obtaining an MRI. Bring any existing images or reports you have. Dr. Boelk can discuss whether an MRI or other imaging would help clarify your condition or guide care.
Is spinal decompression painful?
The table is set up to deliver controlled traction at a level you can tolerate. Some patients notice temporary soreness or a change in symptoms. Tell the staff if a session increases your pain or causes new symptoms.
Does insurance cover DRX9000 spinal decompression?
Non-surgical spinal decompression is an elective, cash-pay service at the clinic. Eligible HSA or FSA funds may be accepted depending on your plan. The office can explain the cost before you decide whether to start care.
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
“When my own back problems kept flaring up, I wanted to know why a movement felt fine one day and bothered me the next. That’s one reason I ask patients to tell me about a regular day, from the drive to work to what happens when they try to exercise. Those details help me understand what you’re dealing with. If you come in, we’ll talk through what you’ve tried, what your findings may mean, and which next step I think makes sense for you.”
— Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC
Schedule Your Complimentary Spinal Decompression Consultation
If you live in Solana Beach 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 with Dr. Boelk. Bring any existing imaging or reports you’d like to discuss.
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