Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
(HBOT)
Effects on the body
The human body relies heavily on oxygen to initiate all metabolic processes at the cellular level. Oxygen plays a direct role in generating cellular energy by boosting the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivers a concentrated dose of oxygen, helping cells and tissues produce more energy.
In areas of damage, this added oxygen can provide the energy needed for tissue repair and cellular function.
The brain, especially after injury, often suffers from a lack of energy. Hyperbaric therapy can accelerate recovery by supplying the brain with the energy it needs to heal.
Over time, the therapy may also increase ATP production by stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis—the creation of new energy-producing units in cells.
As we age, blood vessels narrow and stiffen, reducing oxygen flow and slowing down overall function. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps counteract this decline by enhancing intracellular energy production, offering a powerful support for age-related energy loss.
Research Studies
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) significantly boosts the bone marrow’s ability to produce stem cells—primitive cells that can transform into any type of cell the body needs. These stem cells help repair organs and tissues and activate other healing processes. They naturally migrate to damaged areas and support regeneration.
Clinical research shows that HBOT stimulates neurogenesis—the creation of new brain cells—especially after injuries or movement disorders. It also accelerates recovery from physical injuries. Studies have found that soft tissues healed with HBOT become stronger and more resistant to reinjury, which is especially beneficial for athletes.
Repeated sessions of HBOT strongly activate the parasympathetic nervous system, shifting the body from stress mode into a state of rest and repair—ideal conditions for healing.
One of HBOT’s key mechanisms is the stimulation of new capillary growth, which improves blood circulation. This process is vital for recovery from various conditions, including:
Chronic, slow-healing wounds
Brain injuries
Heart attacks
Diabetes
Age-related circulatory decline (where HBOT helps by promoting new blood vessel formation and improved blood flow)
Research Studies
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy stimulates the bone marrow to release stem cells that heal wounds
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy stimulates stem cells in the gut to heal ulcerative colitis
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy heals bones by stimulating stem cells
Hyperbaric therapy helped grow new brain tissue after ischemic stroke
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber promotes neurogenesis, i.e. the birth of new brain cells
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy stimulates liver regeneration
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber helps to grow new blood vessels in the healing of chronic wounds
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy induces the formation of new blood vessels during wound healing
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber triggers angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, i.e. the growth of blood vessels
Lowers Inflammation
One of the key benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is its powerful anti-inflammatory effect. It significantly reduces inflammation-related markers such as TNF-alpha and Interleukin-1—substances closely linked to many serious health conditions. While the medical industry continues to seek pharmaceutical solutions to lower these markers, HBOT offers a natural and effective alternative.
At the same time, HBOT increases levels of Interleukin-10, a potent anti-inflammatory protein that plays a crucial role in reducing brain inflammation.
The anti-inflammatory impact of HBOT supports healing in both:
Acute inflammation (e.g., acute pancreatitis)
Chronic inflammation, a major contributor to diseases like cardiovascular conditions, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer.
In cases of acute injury, tissue swelling results from leaky blood vessels that allow plasma and white blood cells to reach the damaged site. While this response helps fight the damage, the resulting swelling can limit oxygen delivery. HBOT counteracts this by raising oxygen levels in tissues, narrowing blood vessels, reducing swelling, and accelerating recovery.
Research Studies
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduces brain inflammation and protects the brain after injury
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber reduces inflammation in the brain and improves recovery after brain injury
2-4 days of hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduces inflammation markers in the brain
The anti-inflammatory effects of hyperbaric oxygen chamber help with Crohn's disease
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber strongly reduces arterial calcification through anti-inflammatory effects
The anti-inflammatory effect of hyperbaric oxygen chamber reduces the risk of colon cancer
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduces swelling and promotes tissue healing in sports injuries
Pain Relief
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been consistently shown in numerous studies to reduce pain. People globally report experiencing significant pain relief after undergoing this therapy.
The primary reason for HBOT's pain-relieving effects appears to be its anti-inflammatory action. With inflammation-related pain becoming increasingly prevalent, HBOT's role in managing it is crucial, especially since many individuals either cannot tolerate or face risks from long-term use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).
Research Studies
Opioid receptors play a role in the pain-reducing effect of hyperbaric oxygen chamber
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduces pain after nerve damage
5 barotherapy sessions permanently reduced inflammatory pain
10 sessions of hyperbaric oxygen therapy reduced pain quickly and permanently
4 very high pressure barotherapy sessions resulted in immediate, severe and lasting pain relief
Hyperbaric oxygen chamber reduces pain and inflammation markers
Use of hyperbaric oxygen chamber when non-steroidal analgesics are contraindicated
Improves the Immune System
White blood cells are key components of the immune system with multiple roles, including fighting infections. They do this through phagocytosis, a process where they engulf and destroy foreign particles. During phagocytosis, oxygen is converted into reactive oxygen species that kill pathogens, making oxygen essential for this function. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy boosts phagocytosis, enhancing the body’s ability to combat infections.
Additionally, hyperbaric oxygen therapy supports apoptosis, or programmed cell death, which eliminates damaged cells such as malfunctioning immune cells or cancer cells. This process is crucial for reducing inflammation and promoting healing of chronic wounds.
High-dose hyperbaric oxygen therapy, using high-pressure chambers, generates large amounts of oxygen radicals. These free radicals directly kill harmful microorganisms, especially anaerobic bacteria that cannot survive in oxygen-rich environments.
Research Studies
Long COVID
Post-COVID symptoms often involve brain and nerve issues—fatigue, pain, depression, anxiety, memory loss, and brain fog.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) increases oxygen delivery to oxygen-starved tissues, promoting healing and reducing fatigue. It also lowers inflammation, easing pain and improving well-being.
HBOT boosts immune response by enhancing white blood cell function, aiding recovery from lingering infections. It also activates stem cells and supports tissue repair, especially in the lungs and other organs.
The therapy improves cognitive function by stimulating neuroplasticity and brain healing. It enhances mitochondrial energy production and circulation, which can relieve fatigue, brain fog, and muscle pain linked to long COVID.
Research Studies
Traumatic Brain Injury
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) improves oxygen delivery to the brain after traumatic brain injury (TBI), even in areas with poor blood flow. It reduces inflammation and swelling, creating better conditions for healing.
HBOT stimulates the growth of new brain cells and blood vessels, enhances neuroplasticity, and protects brain tissue by reducing oxidative stress. This supports recovery of cognitive, emotional, and motor functions—even years after injury.
Patients often see improvements in memory, focus, mood, and physical abilities. Although studies on chronic TBI vary in results, many now recognize that even mild-pressure HBOT (e.g., 1.3 ATA) is effective, despite being labeled as "placebo" in earlier research. Lack of standardized treatment protocols also contributes to mixed study outcomes.
Research Studies
Stroke
Reactivates Dormant Brain Cells – HBOT can revive inactive brain cells in stroke-affected areas by restoring oxygen supply, aiding recovery.
Boosts Brain Oxygenation – By increasing oxygen levels, HBOT helps heal oxygen-deprived brain regions and minimizes tissue damage.
Reduces Brain Inflammation – HBOT lessens swelling and inflammation, protecting surrounding tissues from further harm.
Promotes New Blood Vessels – HBOT stimulates angiogenesis, enhancing blood flow and tissue repair in damaged areas.
Enhances Brain Adaptability – The therapy supports neuroplasticity, encouraging new neural growth and stronger brain connections to regain lost functions.
Combats Oxidative Stress – HBOT helps neutralize damaging free radicals, protecting brain cells and supporting recovery.
Supports Rehab Outcomes – Improved oxygenation and circulation make physical, speech, and occupational therapies more effective.
Research Studies
Autism
Boosts Brain Oxygenation – HBOT increases oxygen delivery to brain regions tied to communication, behavior, and social skills in autism.
Reduces Neuroinflammation – Its anti-inflammatory effects may ease brain inflammation linked to autism symptoms.
Improves Mitochondrial Function – Enhances cellular energy production, helping with fatigue and energy regulation.
Supports Detoxification – Promotes liver and cellular detox, aiding the body in eliminating toxins.
Encourages Neuroplasticity – Stimulates new neural connections, supporting learning and behavioral improvements.
Strengthens Gut-Brain Axis – Reduces systemic inflammation and boosts gut health, which can benefit brain function.
Lowers Oxidative Stress – Enhances antioxidant defenses, protecting cells and the nervous system.
Improves Blood Flow – Increases cerebral circulation, supporting cognitive function.
Common Protocol – Typically uses 1.3–1.5 ATA with 21–100% oxygen for 60 minutes, 5–7 times a week over 20–40 sessions. Lower pressures are preferred for brain effects and safety in children.
Research Studies
Fibromyalgia
Reduces Pain – HBOT lowers pain sensitivity by calming overactive pain-processing centers in the brain.
Boosts Brain Function – Improves oxygen flow and neuroplasticity, reducing brain fog and enhancing focus.
Fights Fatigue – Increases cellular energy and lowers oxidative stress, supporting better energy levels.
Lowers Inflammation – Modulates inflammatory markers, helping relieve muscle and joint pain.
Balances the Nervous System – Helps regulate autonomic function, easing stress and improving relaxation.
Improves Sleep – Enhances melatonin production and reduces disturbances for deeper, restorative sleep.
Aids Tissue Repair – Speeds up muscle recovery and reduces soreness by delivering more oxygen to tissues.
Supports Mental Health – Promotes calm and emotional balance by reducing oxidative stress and supporting brain chemistry.
Improves Circulation – Enhances blood flow to muscles and nerves, reducing pain and stiffness.
Restores Mitochondrial Function – Revives energy production at the cellular level, boosting endurance and reducing discomfort.
Research Studies
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