Surgical Alternatives for Severe Sciatica in Kearny Mesa, CA: A Proven Path to Lasting Relief Without Surgery

Sciatica is a painful and often debilitating condition that can make everyday activities like walking, sitting, or even sleeping a struggle. For many patients, the burning, shooting pain, numbness, and weakness in the leg can feel overwhelming—leading them to believe that surgery is their only hope. However, for most cases, surgery is not necessary.

At The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego, we specialize in Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD), an FDA-cleared, research-backed alternative that effectively treats the root cause of sciatica—compressed spinal discs pressing on the sciatic nerve. Using the DRX9000, the most advanced spinal decompression technology, we have helped thousands of patients avoid surgery and regain their quality of life.

What Causes Severe Sciatica?

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve—the largest nerve in the body—becomes compressed, leading to intense, radiating pain that often worsens over time. The most common causes include:

✅ Herniated or Bulging Discs – When spinal discs shift out of place, they can press directly on the sciatic nerve.
✅ Degenerative Disc Disease – Over time, discs wear down and lose height, leading to increased nerve compression.
✅ Spinal Stenosis – A narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the sciatic nerve.
✅ Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction – SI joint instability can create pain that mimics sciatica.
✅ Muscle Imbalances & Poor Biomechanics – Weak or tight muscles in the lower back, hips, and legs contribute to nerve compression.

Many patients are told that surgery is their only solution, but the reality is that surgery comes with risks, including extended recovery times, complications, and failure rates as high as 50% for spinal fusion surgeries.

How Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression (NSSD) Treats the Root Cause of Sciatica

Unlike temporary pain relief treatments like medications, injections, or physical therapy, NSSD directly addresses the structural cause of sciatica—spinal disc compression.

How It Works:

✔ Gently decompresses the spine, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
✔ Creates negative pressure, encouraging bulging or herniated discs to retract.
✔ Restores hydration and nutrients to discs, promoting natural healing.
✔ Provides pain relief without drugs, injections, or surgery.

By reducing disc pressure and restoring proper spinal function, NSSD not only relieves pain but also prevents future damage, helping patients achieve long-term relief and mobility.

Why We Only Use the DRX9000 for Spinal Decompression

Not all spinal decompression machines are created equal. At our clinic, we exclusively use the DRX9000 because it is:

🔹 FDA-cleared and backed by research from Stanford, Johns Hopkins, Mayo Clinic, and Duke Medical Center.
🔹 Precisely designed to target specific spinal levels for controlled, effective decompression.
🔹 Far superior to traditional traction machines, which do not create the necessary negative pressure for true disc healing.

The DRX9000 is the gold standard in spinal decompression, giving our patients the best chance at full recovery without surgery.

Why Passive Therapy (NSSD) Must Be Combined with Active Therapy

While Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is highly effective, it is still a passive treatment—meaning it must be combined with active rehabilitation to prevent reinjury and ensure long-term success.

🔹 Core Strengthening & Spinal Stability – Strengthening core muscles supports the spine and prevents disc issues from returning.
🔹 Flexibility & Mobility Training – Proper movement mechanics reduce stress on the sciatic nerve and lower back.
🔹 Postural & Movement Corrections – Correcting poor posture and lifting techniques is essential for preventing reinjury.

At our clinic, we create customized treatment plans to ensure that every patient gets both passive and active therapy for lasting relief.

At-Home Sciatica Care: What You Can Do to Help Your Recovery

In addition to in-office treatments, there are several at-home strategies that can help improve sciatic pain and prevent flare-ups:

💡 Avoid Prolonged Sitting – If you must sit, use a chair with proper lumbar support and take breaks every 30-45 minutes.
💡 Gentle Stretching – Hamstring and piriformis stretches can help reduce pressure on the sciatic nerve.
💡 Stay Active – Low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can keep blood flowing and prevent stiffness.
💡 Ice & Heat Therapy – Ice can reduce inflammation, while heat can relax tight muscles.
💡 Proper Sleeping Position – Sleeping on your back with a pillow under your knees can help maintain spinal alignment.

Following these simple home care tips, in combination with professional treatment, can speed up recovery and prevent long-term issues.

Why Patients Trust Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC

Dr. Cassidy Boelk, DC, is a leading expert in Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression and the founder of the Spinal Decompression Training Academy, where he trains doctors nationwide in proper spinal decompression protocols.

✔ Over 50,000 spinal decompression treatments performed
✔ Seven DRX9000 spinal decompression tables – the largest provider in California
✔ FDA-cleared, research-backed spinal decompression therapy
✔ Comprehensive care combining decompression, rehab, and spinal stability training
✔ Patients fly in from across the U.S. and internationally for his expertise
✔ Regardless of referrals from medical doctors, orthopedic specialists, neurologists, or chiropractors, every case is thoroughly evaluated to determine the best treatment approach

Real Patients, Real Results – Testimonials from Kearny Mesa & Beyond

"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."
– Calder Pearce, San Diego, CA

"I was so tired of being in pain and felt I had tried all resources. After two unsuccessful cortisone shots, my primary doctor told me surgery might be my only option. I wanted to avoid surgery at all costs. After committing to Dr. Boelk’s spinal decompression plan, I am now completely pain-free! I plan to continue maintenance sessions to keep myself feeling great."
– Marlo Surovsky, San Diego, CA

"I travel from the UK to see Dr. Boelk and his wonderful team. I have 3 bulging discs, and one was pressing on my sciatic nerve. The spinal decompression treatments have kept me active and pain-free. I wouldn't go anywhere else!"
– Lisa S., United Kingdom

Find Lasting Sciatica Relief – Contact Us Today

If you’ve been struggling with severe sciatica and want to avoid surgery, Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression is the most effective treatment option. Relief is possible without injections, drugs, or downtime.

📍 The Spinal Decompression & Chiropractic Center of San Diego
📍 5095 Murphy Canyon Road, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92123

📞 Call or Text: 619-298-0800
🌐 SanDiegoBackCare.com

💡 Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward pain-free living!