Spinal Decompression Treatment in University City, CA

If you're living in University City or UTC and dealing with a herniated disc, sciatica, or chronic neck or lower back pain, you may already have spent considerable time looking for answers.

Perhaps you've tried physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, medications, injections, or home exercises. Some treatments may have helped temporarily, but you're still experiencing pain, numbness, tingling, or limitations that interfere with your daily life.

Maybe you're having trouble sitting through a workday, sleeping comfortably, exercising, or doing activities you once enjoyed. And if surgery has been mentioned, you may be wondering whether another nonsurgical option is worth exploring.

For residents of University City, UTC, and surrounding San Diego neighborhoods, The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego offers specialized DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy at its Kearny Mesa location.

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 and over 100,000 spinal decompression treatment sessions performed.

Unlike chiropractic offices that offer spinal decompression as one of many services, nonsurgical spinal decompression is the primary clinical specialty of Dr. Boelk's practice.

A Patient's Experience With a Herniated Disc

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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 who have been dealing with disc-related pain, the possibility of returning to everyday activities is often what motivates them to explore additional treatment options.

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

What Is DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy?

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy is a specialized form of computer-controlled spinal traction designed to apply carefully regulated distraction forces to targeted areas of the spine.

The goal is to reduce mechanical loading on spinal structures, including affected intervertebral discs.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, treatment is performed using the DRX9000 spinal decompression system.

The equipment delivers controlled cycles of traction and relaxation, with settings adjusted according to the patient's clinical findings and tolerance.

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

Some patients experience improvements in pain and function, although clinical research on nonsurgical spinal decompression remains mixed. Treatment cannot be guaranteed to reverse a disc herniation or eliminate the need for surgery.

7 Reasons University City Patients Choose Dr. Cassidy James Boelk, DC

When choosing a spinal decompression doctor, patients should consider more than simply whether a clinic has a traction machine.

The doctor's experience, specialized training, equipment, clinical focus, and willingness to provide an honest evaluation all matter.

1. More Than 22 Years of Experience Helping Patients With Spinal Conditions

Dr. Boelk has spent over two decades evaluating and treating patients with herniated discs, bulging discs, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and chronic neck and lower back pain.

Many patients who seek his care have already tried several conservative treatments and are looking for additional options before considering surgery.

His experience includes evaluating lumbar disc problems at L4-L5 and L5-S1, cervical disc conditions, radiating arm and leg symptoms, and patients whose symptoms interfere with walking, sitting, exercising, or sleeping.

For patients dealing with persistent spinal pain, experience matters.

2. Over 100,000 Spinal Decompression Treatment Sessions Performed

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

That experience extends beyond operating a machine. It includes evaluating patients, reviewing diagnostic findings, determining treatment settings, monitoring progress, and recognizing when a different treatment approach may be necessary.

Rather than occasionally offering spinal decompression alongside unrelated services, Dr. Boelk has made it a central focus of his professional career.

3. A Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor and Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist

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

His qualifications include:

• Certified Spinal Decompression Doctor

• Certified Pain-Free Performance Specialist

• Founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy

• Instructor in nonsurgical spinal decompression protocols and techniques

This background allows him to approach spinal conditions with attention to both treatment and appropriate rehabilitation.

For patients who want to return to exercise, sports, or everyday activities, that combination can be especially relevant.

4. A Doctor Who Personally Understands Serious Back Injuries, Sciatica, and Neck Pain

For Dr. Boelk, helping patients with spinal problems is more than a professional interest.

At age 16, he sustained a significant lumbar spinal injury involving a fracture and spondylolisthesis. Later in life, he also experienced lumbar disc herniations, sciatica, and neck and lower back problems.

He understands firsthand how frustrating spinal pain can be, especially when it interferes with work, sleep, exercise, sports, and everyday activities.

Over the years, he has spent thousands of hours studying and practicing spinal rehabilitation strategies while managing his own spinal conditions and helping patients.

His approach is shaped by both extensive clinical experience and personal experience living with spinal injuries.

5. Spinal Decompression Is His Primary Specialty — Not Just Another Technique

Many chiropractic offices offer a broad range of treatments, with spinal decompression being one of numerous available services.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy is the primary clinical specialty.

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

This specialization influences patient screening, treatment planning, equipment selection, and rehabilitation recommendations.

For patients who have already tried several treatment approaches, working with a doctor whose practice concentrates on spinal decompression may be worth considering.

6. Seven DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Machines Dedicated to Neck and Back Treatment

The clinic is equipped with seven DRX9000 spinal decompression systems:

• Four dedicated lumbar systems for lower back treatment

• Three dedicated cervical systems for neck treatment

The DRX9000 uses computer-controlled traction and relaxation cycles, allowing treatment parameters to be adjusted according to the patient's clinical findings and tolerance.

Having dedicated lumbar and cervical equipment reflects the clinic's commitment to specialized spinal decompression care.

7. A Doctor Who Trains Other Doctors — and Knows When Not to Treat

Dr. Boelk is the founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he trains other doctors in nonsurgical spinal decompression protocols and techniques.

His work includes educating practitioners about treatment procedures, clinical considerations, and appropriate patient selection.

Equally important, Dr. Boelk recognizes that not everyone is a candidate for spinal decompression.

Some patients require additional diagnostic testing, different conservative treatments, or surgical evaluation.

The goal isn't to enroll every patient in a treatment program. It's to help patients determine whether spinal decompression is appropriate for their individual condition.

What Happens During a DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Treatment?

Patients from University City and UTC often want to know what to expect before visiting the clinic.

Step 1: Clinical Evaluation

Dr. Boelk reviews the patient's symptoms, medical history, previous treatments, examination findings, and available diagnostic imaging.

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

Step 2: Comfortable Positioning

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

For cervical spinal decompression, dedicated equipment is used to treat the neck.

Step 3: Computer-Controlled Traction

The DRX9000 delivers regulated cycles of traction and relaxation.

Treatment settings are individualized based on the patient's condition, clinical findings, and tolerance.

A typical treatment session generally lasts approximately 20–25 minutes.

Step 4: Rehabilitation and Supportive Care

Depending on individual needs, spinal decompression may be combined with mobility exercises, stabilization training, and other supportive therapies.

The goal is to improve movement tolerance, strength, and everyday function.

What Conditions May Be Considered for Spinal Decompression?

Depending on clinical findings, spinal decompression may be considered for certain individuals experiencing:

• Lumbar disc herniations, including L4-L5 and L5-S1

• Cervical disc herniations

• Bulging discs

• Degenerative disc disease

• Certain cases of disc-related sciatica

• Disc-related neck or lower back pain

• Radiating arm or leg symptoms associated with disc conditions

Having one of these conditions does not automatically mean spinal decompression is appropriate. A thorough evaluation is necessary before recommending treatment.

What If Physical Therapy, Chiropractic Adjustments, or Injections Haven't Helped?

Many patients exploring spinal decompression have already tried multiple treatment approaches.

Some have completed physical therapy, received chiropractic adjustments, tried medications or injections, or followed home exercise programs without obtaining the improvement they hoped for.

Persistent symptoms may warrant reassessment to determine whether a different treatment approach is appropriate.

A Patient's Experience With Sciatica

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"I highly recommend Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC and the team at The Spinal Decompression and Chiropractic Center. I came in with severe sciatica and a herniated disc, and his treatments have made a world of difference. He and his staff are both professional and genuinely caring, creating a welcoming and supportive environment. The treatments were not only highly effective but also tailored to my specific needs. I’m grateful for the care I received and the significant improvement in my quality of life."

— Brian Perrotta, Patient Review

Why Active University City Residents Explore Spinal Decompression

University City is home to professionals, families, retirees, and active individuals who want to maintain their mobility and independence.

Whether someone enjoys walking, golfing, surfing, fitness training, cycling, or simply staying active with family, persistent spinal pain can interfere with the activities they value.

Disc-related symptoms can also make prolonged sitting, commuting, and working at a computer uncomfortable.

At Dr. Boelk's clinic, treatment planning considers not only the patient's symptoms but also their functional goals and activity requirements.

For some patients, those goals include returning to exercise, improving walking tolerance, sleeping more comfortably, or participating in everyday activities with less discomfort.

Patients Travel to San Diego for Specialized Spinal Decompression Care

Although the clinic is located in Kearny Mesa, Dr. Boelk has welcomed patients from throughout Southern California, other states, and countries including Mexico, Canada, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

Some patients specifically seek out the practice because of its extensive focus on spinal decompression and Dr. Boelk's experience with disc-related spinal conditions.

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 may 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 requires 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

Where Can University City and UTC Residents Receive DRX9000 Spinal Decompression?

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 clinic welcomes patients from University City, UTC, La Jolla Colony, Costa Verde, Clairemont, and surrounding San Diego communities.

Its Kearny Mesa location provides access from the University City area via major local roadways, including Interstate 805 and State Route 52.

Patients can contact the clinic to discuss their symptoms, previous treatment experiences, and available diagnostic imaging before scheduling a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Decompression in University City

Is spinal decompression the same as regular chiropractic adjustments?

No. Spinal decompression uses specialized equipment to apply controlled traction to the spine. Chiropractic adjustments involve different manual or instrument-assisted techniques.

Is DRX9000 spinal decompression painful?

Treatment is designed to be controlled and tolerable. However, individual responses vary, and some patients may experience temporary discomfort or symptom changes. Patients should communicate any concerning symptoms during treatment.

How many spinal decompression treatments will I need?

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

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

Does insurance cover DRX9000 spinal decompression?

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

Patients may be able to use eligible HSA or FSA funds, depending on their plan requirements.

Can spinal decompression help me avoid surgery?

Some patients explore spinal decompression as part of their conservative care before considering surgery. Whether surgery is necessary depends on the underlying condition and clinical findings. Spinal decompression cannot guarantee that surgery will be avoided.

Schedule a Complimentary Spinal Decompression Consultation

Still struggling with a herniated disc, sciatica, or chronic neck or lower back pain?

If you've tried other treatments without meaningful improvement, consider learning whether DRX9000 Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy may be appropriate for your condition.

The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego offers a limited number of complimentary, no-obligation spinal decompression consultations.

During the consultation, patients can:

• Discuss their symptoms and previous treatment experiences

• Review their medical history and available imaging

• Learn how DRX9000 spinal decompression works

• Understand what additional evaluation may be necessary

• Discuss whether spinal decompression may be appropriate for their condition

There is no obligation to begin treatment.

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

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 clinical focus is shaped by extensive experience with nonsurgical spinal decompression and his personal history of serious spinal injuries.

Professional Credentials & Experience

• Doctor of Chiropractic: Over 22 years of clinical experience treating spinal conditions.

• 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, and physical performance.

• Founder, Spinal Decompression Training Academy: Established a training program to educate other doctors in nonsurgical spinal decompression techniques and protocols.

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

• DRX9000 Spinal Decompression Specialist: The clinic operates 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.