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What is Hyperbaric Therapy?
Hyperbaric Therapy (HBOT) involves delivering additional oxygen into the body by increasing pressure levels beyond the body’s usual environment. This process elevates the oxygen levels in the blood plasma, leading to enhanced oxygenation of body tissues and brain.
In Hyperbaric Therapy, pressure is typically measured in ATA (atmospheres absolute) or PSI (pounds per square inch). Our day-to-day living environment usually experiences around 1 ATA, but during Hyperbaric Therapy, pressure exceeds 1.0 ATA.
Most Hyperbaric Centers administer treatment at pressures between 1.1 ATA and 3.0 ATA. This heightened pressure allows oxygen to dissolve and saturate more effectively in the blood system, primarily in the plasma, independent of hemoglobin/red blood cells. Consequently, this yields a diverse array of positive physiological, biochemical, and cellular effects.
Traditionally, HBOT involves breathing 100% oxygen under pressure. However, ambient air still contains 21% oxygen, and when breathed under pressure, more oxygen is transferred into the body. Importantly, the extra oxygen enters the blood plasma and reaches deeper areas inaccessible to red blood cells.
This therapy and pressure are the highest approved by the FDA for soft-sided chambers, ensuring an exceptionally safe increase in tissue oxygen levels. Overall, Hyperbaric Therapy significantly enhances the oxygen levels in the blood plasma, resulting in increased oxygen flow to body tissues and the brain.
Typical Use & Application
The standard protocol for Hyperbaric Therapy typically involves 60- or 90-minute sessions, once or twice per day, over 5 days per week for a total of 40 sessions. However, the benefits of this therapy extend beyond the traditional 40-session regimen. Depending on the condition and its severity, the required number of treatments can vary from a few to 40 or more.
The frequency of HBOT treatments varies based on individual needs and the condition being addressed. For instance, individuals with acute carbon monoxide poisoning may require only one or two HBOT sessions, while those with chronic wounds may need 40 or more treatments.
Your doctor will tailor a personalized treatment plan for you, considering factors such as the number of treatments required, treatment frequency, prescribed atmospheric pressure, and duration of each session. This customized approach ensures optimal outcomes aligned with your specific needs
How Long Do the Effects of HBOT Last?
The effects of HBOT can endure for weeks, months, or even permanently, depending on various factors, including:
- The specific condition being treated
- The number and frequency of HBOT sessions
- The individual’s overall health status
For instance, HBOT is effective in treating chronic wounds like diabetic foot ulcers, not only promoting healing but also preventing recurrence. Similarly, it enhances circulation in individuals with peripheral artery disease (PAD), alleviating symptoms by improving blood flow to the legs.
HBOT also proves beneficial in treating chronic refractory osteomyelitis, a bone infection, with effects that can persist for several months or even years. Additionally, HBOT aids in the recovery of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussions, and stroke, with effects lasting months, years, or becoming permanent.
Factors that can affect the duration of HBOT effects:
- The individual’s age
- The individual’s lifestyle
- The individual’s diet
- The individual’s smoking status
- The individual’s other medical conditions
Is It Safe?
Hyperbaric Therapy is both safe and effective, especially when administered at lower pressures, utilizing FDA-approved equipment, and adhering to strict operational guidelines and regulations. With the highest FDA approval rating for soft-sided chambers, this therapy and pressure combination ensures an exceptionally safe elevation in tissue oxygen levels.
Off-Label Indications and Uses
Within the field of Hyperbaric Medicine, numerous doctors and clinical researchers utilize HBOT to address a wide range of conditions beyond the 14 FDA-approved indications. Their findings consistently highlight significant improvements in the quality of life for individuals benefiting from these “off-label” applications.
Click on one of the following conditions for more information including links to our research library.
