HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY
WHAT IS HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY?
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is the use of oxygen pressurized to a higher level than what is found in normal air. This increases the level of oxygen in circulation, leading to increased tissue healing and improved energy production. HBOT is a well-researched, cutting-edge therapy, with a wide range of applications. HBOT can provide enormous benefits in helping to resolve neurological problems. Depending on your condition, hyperbaric oxygen may be a foundational therapy in your NeuroRescue Program.
HOW DOES HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY HELP ME?
The increased oxygen delivery to organs and tissues seen with HBOT has been shown to be extremely helpful in neurological disorders. The increased oxygen saturation promotes a number of beneficial cellular and physiological processes that on their own can be beneficial, but can markedly improve outcomes when used to support neurorehabilitation. HBOT helps to decrease inflammation in both acute and chronic conditions, improves blood flow, and improves energy production within neurons. It leads to genetic changes that accelerate tissue repair and speed healing. Research has shown HBOT to be beneficial in a wide range of neurological conditions, including:
Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuries | Dizziness and Vertigo | Headaches and Migraines | Neurodegenerative Disorders | Chronic Pain | Movement Disorders | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Dysautonomia | Strokes and Vascular Disorders | Peripheral Nervous System Disorders
WHAT TO EXPECT:
HBOT involves spending time in a therapy chamber that contains air that has been pressurized to a level of 1.3 normal atmospheres. Our Vitaeris 320 chamber is comfortable, and while inside people lie down, relax, and just breathe normally. The chamber is zipped closed and slowly pressurized. People often sleep while in the chamber. The increased pressure causes oxygen to dissolve and saturate the blood. This increases oxygen delivery to all tissues of the body, including the nervous system. The treatments usually last 30-60 minutes depending on your condition.
FAQs
Is HBOT Safe?
Yes. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is extremely safe. There are some conditions we treat that involve the inner ear becoming sensitive to increased pressure. Lung and sinus conditions may also be contraindications to HBOT. These are more commonly issues with high pressure chambers that reach 3 atmospheres. We use a mild hyperbaric application of 1.3 atmospheres, which involves a much lower risk of complications. If any potential risks are identified in your case, you will not be prescribed HBOT.
How Does HBOT Work?
Oxygen is carried to your tissues by red blood cells. Oxygen binds to hemoglobin proteins in these cells, and then is offloaded to destination tissue to facilitate energy production. When oxygen is introduced to tissues at a level that exceeds what is found in normal tissue, oxygen dissolves into the plasma component of blood. This is similar to carbonating a beverage, as oxygen saturates the plasma. This increases the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood, and thus increases oxygen delivery to organs and tissues. The brain is a very oxygen-hungry organ, and receives a disproportionate amount of the body’s blood flow in order to support its oxygen demands. As a result, the impacts of HBOT on neurological conditions can be profound.
The increased oxygen saturation from HBOT has been shown to downregulate cytokines including IL1, IL6, and TNF-alpha, thus reducing systemic inflammation. It enhances mitochondrial function, leading to improved cellular energy production and endurance. It upregulates genes responsible for cellular growth and repair, which accelerates healing. It promotes angiogenesis, the development of new blood vessels and capillaries to tissues.
What Does HBOT Feel Like?
HBOT is an extremely comfortable therapy. People describe the sensation of gradual pressure increase as similar to a descent in an airplane. People usually are so relaxed by HBOT that falling asleep in the chamber is very common.
What Can I Do In The Chamber?
Most people take the time as a rare opportunity to unplug and simply relax. Many people meditate. Others listen to music or watch television. Still others fall asleep while inside.
If you deal with fear of enclosed spaces, we will not recommend HBOT for you. There are large windows in the chamber, and we let you dictate the level of light in the room. We keep you in constant contact with your technician in case you do develop any anxiety while inside.
LET’S GET YOU BACK TO LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE
“Dr. Zielinski and his staff are nothing short of miracle workers. I was convinced I had lost mind and the symptoms of vertigo and nausea would never cease. Dr. Zielinski is a kind and present listening ear and knew immediately how to help me. He and his team do a good job of educating and answering questions. Their care has helped me recover and go from being bed bound to living a life again.”
Outpatient Treatment Plan
We use advanced neurodiagnostic technologies and cutting edge neurorehabilitation strategies that are unique to your brain and condition.
NeuroRescue Intensive Program
We use high frequency treatment over 5-10 days, to bring you maximum results in the shortest time possible.