In essence
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy enhances the body’s natural healing processes.
About
What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber. This treatment is used in a hospital environment to treat things like gangrene, carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, and various infections.
In functional medicine, HBOT is used to promote improvement of chronic pain, as well as the healing of tissue damages and chronic injuries.
Other uses of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
HBOT has been used since the 1940s, originally with the intent of treating decompression sickness (also known as “the bends”) in U.S. military divers. Today, it is found in most hospitals to treat a long list of chronic conditions, including diabetic wounds, stroke, near-drowning, and traumatic brain injuries.
The FDA has approved hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a treatment for anemia, sinus and brain infections, carbon monoxide poisoning, radiation injuries, skin grafts, and more. HBOT is also now used in functional medicine practices to provide pain relief and increase oxygenation.
Benefits
The value of hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
Improve microcirculation
The main function of the vessels is to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your organs and tissues. As the body ages, its blood vessels narrow, causing poor oxygen delivery. The lack of a proper amount of oxygen in the blood can lead to tiredness, breathlessness, and trouble carrying out typical day-to-day activities. HBOT increases the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream, making it easier and less intensive on the body to perform tasks and activities.
Boost white blood cell counts
HBOT has been shown to increase the number of active white blood cells in patients. White blood cells are the body’s first and main line of response to infections. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy makes it easier for your body to fight off infections and delays the need for traditional medical intervention.
Reduces swelling and inflammation
Swelling and inflammation is caused by a rush of fluids and white blood cells into the affected area of the body to prevent infection. Since hyperbaric oxygen therapy increases your body’s white blood cell count, it also reduces swelling and inflammation.
Provides pain relief
As mentioned above, HBOT is a proven method for treatment of serious injuries and conditions in a hospital setting. However, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has also been shown to provide pain relief for those who suffer from other conditions, including fibromyalgia, asthma, chronic pain, and more.
