Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, significantly increasing oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Heightened oxygen concentration can stimulate healing and regeneration throughout the body.
More information is provided by the British Hyperbaric Association. Evidence of the benefits of HBOT is continually emerging, so let’s take a look at five benefits:
1. Wound healing
A key advantage of HBOT is the acceleration of wound healing. Flooding the body with oxygen promotes the formation of new blood vessels, enhances white blood cell function, and stimulates the release of growth factors. This makes HBOT useful in treating chronic wounds, diabetic ulcers, and other non-healing injuries.
2. Fighting infection
Raised oxygen levels create an environment that is inhospitable to certain bacteria, thereby bolstering the body’s defences against infections. HBOT is therefore a valuable adjunctive therapy for osteomyelitis, necrotising soft tissue infections and compromised surgical wounds.
3. Neurological rehabilitation
By delivering oxygen to oxygen-deprived tissues in the brain, HBOT may mitigate the effects of stroke, brain injury, and cerebral palsy. It promotes neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to reorganise and form new neural connections), which is instrumental in restoring lost functions.
4. Reducing inflammation
In sports medicine, HBOT is recognised for its ability to support recovery from sports-related injuries. By reducing inflammation, accelerating tissue repair and flushing out lactic acid, HBOT helps athletes to recover quickly.
5. Boosting collagen production
HBOT has been shown to stimulate collagen growth. Collagen, which is present throughout the body in connective tissues and muscles, is important in skin healing, particularly following injury, radiation therapy, or skin grafting.
HBOT also shows promise as a complementary therapy for conditions such as fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and autism. Research suggests that HBOT may offer symptom relief and improve overall well-being.
Where can I find hyperbaric oxygen therapy near me?
HBOT is offered in clinic settings by providers such as https://www.foreverclinic.co.uk/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy/. You will be offered individualised therapy following a consultation.
HBOT is well-tolerated, with minimal side effects when administered by trained professionals in controlled settings. This makes it a safe and viable option for many individuals.
