Hyperbaric Therapy
Understanding Hyperbaric Therapy
Hyperbaric therapy, also called hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), boosts oxygen intake by elevating pressure levels in the body. Pressure is measured in ATA or PSI, with our regular environment at 1 atmosphere. During therapy, pressure surpasses 1.0 ATA, often between 1.1 ATA and 3.0 ATA.
This elevated pressure aids oxygen’s effective saturation in the blood, specifically in the plasma, offering various positive physiological effects. This non-invasive therapy is widely accepted to enhance oxygen levels throughout the body’s organs.
Medical Conditions Treated by Hyperbarics
Typical Applications
Usually, sessions lasting 60 to 90 minutes, once or twice daily, five days a week for 40 sessions show clinical efficacy and safety. However, benefits of hyperbaric therapy have been seen beyond the traditional 40-session protocol.
mHBOT (Mild Hyperbaric Therapy)
mHBOT involves entering a hyperbaric chamber with a 30% pressure increase, reaching 1.3 ATA or 10 feet below sea level. This FDA-approved therapy in soft-sided chambers ensures a safe boost in tissue oxygen levels. It enhances blood plasma oxygenation, increasing oxygen flow into body and brain tissues.
Air Content Inside Chamber
HBOT typically involves breathing 100% oxygen under pressure. Yet, even in ambient air with 21% oxygen, pressure allows for enhanced oxygen transfer into the body. This extra oxygen enters the blood plasma, reaching deeper areas inaccessible to red blood cells.
Indications & Uses
Numerous doctors and researchers in hyperbaric medicine believe HBOT benefits extend beyond the 14 FDA-approved indications. Its ‘off-label’ uses span autism, anti-aging, cancer, concussion, diabetes, general health, mental health, neurology, sports performance, traumatic brain injury, and more, significantly enhancing quality of life for many.
How Safe Is It?
Hyperbaric therapy, when applied within safe parameters using approved equipment and guidelines, is generally safe. Instances of oxygen toxicity or adverse reactions are rare, mostly in hospital settings with higher dosages for acute conditions. Lower-pressure treatments, as used in non-clinical settings, pose minimal risks.
