The latest research on hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has shown significant promise. HBOT involves exposing the body to 100% oxygen in a monoplace chamber. The breathable air in our environment consists of ~21% oxygen, therefore, the level of oxygenation far exceeds that which is possible with ambient air. HBOT also exposes the body to higher barometric pressure which allows oxygen to diffuse directly into blood plasma. In addition, the amount of oxygen that binds to the hemoglobin molecule in RBCs is maximized, increasing the delivery to tissues. Our chamber has a pressure of up to 3 atmospheres (atm) which is similar to tension felt by a diver at a depth of 20 meters (66ft). With the two components of increased pressure and maximal oxygen exposure in tandem, HBOT is able to create a tissue oxygen tension ten times greater than normal. The higher the oxygen tension, the better the body is able to fight infection.
The human body’s tissues require an adequate supply of oxygen to function. When tissues become injured, the requirement increases in order for repair to occur. An elevation in blood oxygen temporarily restores normal levels of blood gases and tissue function to promote healing and fight infection. HBOT is used to treat several medical conditions ranging from anemia to multiple sclerosis. A very interesting use is the considerable benefit for patients wanting to promote longevity and prevent illness. Studies have also shown patients can experience a cognition boost while preventing the onset of dementia.
Procedure Details
At Foster Medical, one HBOT treatment session lasts 90 minutes. This includes 15 minutes of increasing pressurization (the dive), followed by 60 minutes of therapy at (up to) 3 atm, then another 15 minutes of decreased pressurization (decompression). Recommended protocols call for numerous consecutive treatment sessions. One study has shown more than 8,000 health genes being turned on after only three treatments.
Compared to many medical procedures, side effects of HBOT are very few to none. Ear complaints can be remedied with a few simple techniques. The primary concern of many patients is claustrophobia from being in the chamber for a sustained period of time. Patients can have peace of mind knowing that our nursing staff will continuously monitor them in the monoplace, and for those afraid of confined spaces we can provide medication to put the mind at ease.
HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY
Contact our clinic to ask more detailed questions about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.
Treatable conditions with HBOT
Benefits
Longevity/anti-aging
Acute stroke
Clostridial myonecrosis
Compromised skin grafts and flaps
Refractory osteomyelitis
Actinomycosis
Gas embolism
Decompression sickness
Instances of inadequate blood flow to tissues
Cosmetic- improve skin quality, decrease wrinkles
Autism
Alzheimer's
Traumatic Brain Injury (concussion)
Stroke
COVID-19 infection
Chronic/Acute Sinusitis
Crohn’s disease
Rheumatoid arthritis
Carbon monoxide damage
Diabetic foot ulcers (prevent amputations)
Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Opioid withdrawal
Infertility
Lyme disease
Chronic fatigue syndrome
