Blog Archives - NexGen Hyperbaric

The Role of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Improving Skin Graft Recovery

October 12, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

More than 6 million people in the country experience chronic wounds due to burns, skin infections, skin cancer, and ulcers that won’t heal. That doesn’t include the number of people who injure their skin from accidents.

Skin grafting is an advanced wound-healing technique that helps protect and heal the affected area, but it’s not always enough. To avoid compromised skin grafts, many medical professionals use advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine to give their patients’ bodies the best chance of recovery.

Improve Skin Graft Healing With Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

A skin graft is a medical procedure during which a surgeon or dermatologist removes the top two layers of healthy skin (epidermis and dermis) from a patient’s body and attaches it to a wound. In most cases, healthy skin comes from a body part that is usually clothed, like the inner thigh.

A skin flap is similar to a graft because it uses healthy skin to cover an affected area. However, the skin flap comes from a neighboring piece of skin that surgeons don’t detach from the body, leaving its original blood supply intact.

Despite the benefits of skin grafts and flaps, they can fail and die. Besides infections and fluid buildups, a patient could move and accidentally break the connection of blood vessels between the grafted skin and the wound, which are crucial for a skin graft to work. Signs of a failing graft include:

Darkening skin
Skin graft doesn’t return to a pinkish hue when you apply pressure to it
Infection
Fluid discharge around the graft or donor site
Swelling

Medical professionals must act quickly to prevent the graft or flap from dying when these signs occur. Advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine provide some of the best results. Studies show that proper wound care with hyperbaric oxygen therapy boosts the survival of a skin graft by nearly 30%, and hyperbaric patients achieve over 60% graft take.

How HBOT Enhances Skin Graft Recovery

The high success rate of HBOT is due primarily to how the therapy works. Patients with chronic wounds rest inside pressurized hyperbaric chambers that deliver a steady oxygen flow. Unlike the air you normally breathe with an oxygen concentration of 21%, hyperbaric chambers have 100% pure oxygen. The boost in oxygen is integral for naturally promoting the body’s ability to heal in several ways.

Increased Oxygen Supply

The most important benefit of advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine is the influx of oxygen to the body. When tissues don’t receive enough oxygen because the body’s red blood cells lack the necessary oxygen level, cells start to fail and die. The effects of deficient blood oxygenation include the inability of cells to produce sufficient energy to protect the body from bacteria and regenerate new cells.

Breathing inside a hyperbaric chamber gives the body a large dose of oxygen. It’s enough to give red blood cells the oxygen they need to jumpstart the body’s natural healing functions.

Reduction of Inflammation

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment also reduces inflammation. Inflammation is the immune system’s response to injuries, but it causes pain and discomfort around wounds.

When the body has low oxygen levels, its cells become vulnerable to inflammation. By increasing the oxygen level over time through several sessions of HBOT, the body won’t produce as many proteins responsible for inflammation.

Promotion of Angiogenesis

HBOT also promotes angiogenesis or the growth of new blood vessels. Blood vessels are essential for building the bridge between the skin graft and the wound site, which also helps form new skin cells.

Decreased Risk of Infection

One of the unfortunate risks of skin grafting is the development of an infection at the graft or skin donor sites. When fluids that don’t contain sufficient blood vessels flow around the graft site, hematomas of clotted blood or seromas can form. Staph infections can also develop.

In either case, the skin graft risks failing and compromising the patient’s health. Fortunately, advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine can dramatically reduce the risk of infection and complications due to a lack of blood vessels and oxygen.

Since HBOT boosts the body’s oxygen concentration in tissues, the immune system can resist or fight infections better. HBOT therapy can also increase the body’s production of white blood cells, which are integral for protection against infection and disease.

Additional Read: How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works Wonders for Wound Healing

Experience the Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy With Us

Our specialties include advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine at NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC. Based in Denver, CO, our wound care center uses state-of-the-art hyperbaric chambers to provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy services for patients with chronic skin afflictions. Our HBOT experts and staff maintain the highest patient support and operational safety standards to provide exceptional care and promote total wellness in our patients.

If you’re ready to embrace advanced hyperbaric recovery with NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, call us at (888) 567-4302 for a consultation.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Offers Hope For Sleep Apnea Relief

September 20, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Sleep apnea is a common condition affecting millions of people nationwide. Unfortunately, not everyone with the condition knows they have it because the most telling symptoms occur during sleep. When people realize they have some form of sleep apnea, they can receive treatments or make lifestyle changes to improve their sleep and wellness.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea is one of those treatments. Though it isn’t as prevalent as other sleep apnea options, HBOT treatments positively affect its symptoms.

Understanding Sleep Apnea: Types and Symptoms

As the name suggests, sleep apnea is a sleep disorder. A person with this condition will experience breathing problems when they sleep. In severe cases, their breathing will stop and start over a hundred times a night, or they may experience persistent breathing interruptions in milder situations.

The effects of paused breathing dramatically affect the quality of sleep a person gets each night. If you have sleep apnea, you won’t get enough oxygen to your blood and organs (hypoxia) while you sleep, so your heart rate will slow. Your body will react involuntarily to prevent suffocation, causing you to wake up throughout the night to restart your breathing.

The lack of oxygen will increase your blood pressure, which is why hypertension or high blood pressure is closely related to sleep apnea. Unfortunately, the constant fluctuation in a person’s blood pressure can create severe medical conditions and problems for the heart and brain. For example, it can increase the risk of diabetes, heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and cardiomyopathy.

Aside from interrupted breathing and fragmented sleep, people with sleep apnea may also experience:

Extreme snoring
Night sweats
Daytime tiredness
Chronic headaches
Nighttime restlessness
A feeling of suffocation while asleep
Cognitive problems like concentration difficulties, irritability, confusion, depression, or forgetfulness

Sleep apnea has two forms: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea. OSA is the most common form of this sleep disorder, and it occurs if you have a total or partial airway obstruction in your upper respiratory tract. The blockage forces the chest muscles and lungs to overwork themselves to push air out and clear the airway.

Central sleep apnea is due to a malfunction of the central nervous system. The upper respiratory airway might be clear, but the brain doesn’t trigger or respond to the body’s signals responsible for breathing. A person with complex sleep apnea suffers from both forms of the sleep disorder simultaneously.

Conventional Treatments for Sleep Apnea

Since patients with sleep disorders don’t get sufficient oxygen saturation at night and are prone to more severe health conditions, it’s imperative for people who suspect they have sleep apnea to get help immediately. After undergoing a physical exam and sleep study to diagnose the disorder, patients may have one or more sleep apnea treatments:

CPAP masks: Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines provide oxygen through a mask by creating enough pressure to push past airway obstructions.
Auto CPAP masks: Similar to a conventional CPAP machine, this treatment automatically adjusts air pressure as necessary.
Adaptive Servo Ventilation (ASV): This airflow mask automatically monitors a person’s breathing patterns to ensure they receive the right amount of pressure to facilitate good oxygen saturation.

Some medical professionals treat sleep apnea with supplemental oxygen therapy if their patients aren’t fit to use a CPAP machine due to their discomfort wearing the mask or health-related reasons. With supplemental oxygen, patients receive oxygen through a nasal cannula.

Though individuals undergoing supplemental oxygen therapy have a steady supply of oxygen flowing through their nasal passages, the oxygen has no pressure to push past blocked airways. The oxygen also doesn’t prevent sleep interruptions or improve carbon dioxide retention, which can happen due to poor oxygen intake.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?

Unlike supplemental oxygen therapy, clinical trials for hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea show promising results. HBOT is a treatment where a person with sleep apnea rests inside a pressurized chamber with pure oxygen flowing through it. The pressure inside the chamber helps the blood absorb and dissolve more oxygen.

Increased oxygen saturation promotes healing in the body without inflammation. HBOT helps with many medical conditions like radiation injuries and carbon monoxide poisoning, but it can also improve your sleep quality if you have sleep apnea.

With an improved oxygen saturation within the blood, your airways won’t have as much inflammation. As a result, your upper respiratory tract will be more open, allowing you to breathe better while sleeping. Breathing oxygen in a pressurized chamber also helps you grow new blood vessels and improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery.

Each HBOT session lasts one to two hours. The number of sessions a person needs to see long-lasting results depends on the severity of their sleep apnea.

Additional Read: 5 Ways Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Change Your Life

Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Your body’s tissues rely on oxygen and nutrient-rich blood vessels. By breathing in up to three times the amount of oxygen in normal air through a pressurized chamber, you’re encouraging your body to heal itself by:

Increasing your blood circulation
Promoting new blood vessel growth
Stimulating stem cells
Reducing muscle soreness
Decreasing inflammation throughout the body

With hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea, you’ll sleep better and feel better physically and mentally. Fortunately, the side effects of hyperbaric healing treatment are few and manageable. For example, some people experience ear popping or temporary sinus pain from the increased pressure inside the chamber.

Take Action Today: Your Path to Sleep Apnea Relief

The physical and mental wellness improvements due to hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea are plentiful, especially when you combine hyperbaric healing treatment with other treatments and lifestyle changes. At NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, we have over 15 years of experience bringing the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen into outpatient clinics.

Our hyperbaric experts maintain a high standard of care and operational safety. We also hold Undersea Hyperbaric & Medical Society accreditation. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for sleep apnea firsthand, call (888) 567-4302 for a consultation with our professionals at NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC.

Jonathan Rotella, CEO of NexGen Hyperbaric, and Jerry Rosburg, football coach, pose for a photo.

HYPERBARIC HEALING: JERRY ROSBURG’S COACHING JOURNEY WITH HYPERBARIC CHAMBERS

July 25, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Professional athletes lead incredibly active lives, both on and off the field. When they’re not giving it all to the game, they undergo intense training sessions between practices and manage hectic travel schedules. This leaves them little time to rest and recover, which can produce debilitating results when coupled with physical injuries.

As a retired NFL coach with over 40 years of experience in the profession, Jerry Rosburg understands the impact of effective treatment and recovery. It’s why he’s become a vocal advocate for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT), a natural solution using high levels of oxygen in hyperbaric chambers to provide effective, long-term healing to athletes.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

HBOT is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates cellular healing in the body through oxygen. The process begins inside a hyperbaric chamber, where patients receive 100% medical grade oxygen, or up to four times the oxygen concentration of standing outside. Sessions can last 1-2 hours in one of two types of hyperbaric chambers:

Monoplace chambers designed for individual use
Multiplace chambers that accommodate multiple patients

A Shared Commitment to Healing and Recovery

Jonathan Rotella, CEO of NexGen Hyperbaric, first met Jerry in 2020 when they discussed treatment options for Jerry’s son, Dallas Stars hockey player Jerad Rosburg. As the father of an athlete and as an NFL coach with numerous players under guidance, Jerry places great importance on the care athletes receive amid their active schedules.

Jonathan’s passion and expertise in HBOT resonated with Jerry, enabling him to see the far-ranging benefits of HBOT for athletes and non-athletes alike. Jerry joined the NexGen team and serves as Vice President of Sports Services.

What Are the Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

As HBOT treatments carry more oxygen to the bloodstream, blood cells become more pliable. This allows more oxygen and nutrient-carrying cells to reach previously inaccessible blood vessels and begin healing. Advantages of HBOT include but are not limited to:

Decreased muscle soreness and fatigue
Improved sports performance in key areas including endurance, speed, muscle strength and range of motion
Improved cognitive function and decision making
Healthy cell regeneration
Strain, sprain and tear relief
Facilitates bone health and growth
Stem cell stimulation
Reduced oxygen toxicity
Increased blood plasma and hemoglobin levels

With increased blood flow and circulation, physical health, mental health and cognitive function can improve, meaning individuals who suffer from a wide variety of ailments will benefit from HBOT.

Learn More About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy With NexGen Hyperbaric

NexGen Hyperbaric is a premier clinical care provider with more than two decades of experience helping patients on the road to recovery, thanks to the healing benefits of our HBOT treatments in hyperbaric chambers. We uphold a high standard through ongoing training and evaluations, which ensures we are always up to date on the latest technological advances and safety procedures. Treating every patient with the utmost care is at the heart of everything we do.

Call us today at (888) 567-4302 to schedule a consultation and discover the power of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for yourself or your team.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) For Depression

April 9, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

As mental health discussions become more widely accepted, many seek alternative treatments to traditional psychotherapy. Talk therapy combined with prescription medication may not be sufficient to make significant strides in some patients’ mental health.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for depression is an increasingly popular treatment option. HBOT offers an addition, not substitution, to traditional depressive disorder treatments to improve the likelihood of success and efficacy of traditional methods. A patient might consider HBOT for depression if their current treatment plan does not seem to improve symptoms sufficiently.

NexGen Hyperbaric LLC can help you decide whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy for depression could help you.

Dealing With Depression

During the Covid-19 pandemic and the following few years, depression rates took a sharp uptick. While depression affected only about 8.5% of adults in the United States before 2020, over 32% of adults experienced depression after 2021.

Depression comes in many forms and impacts people differently. From seasonal affective disorder that may only cause temporary suffering for a few months of the year to major depressive disorder, each person’s case is unique.

Regardless of case-to-case differences, there are some common characteristics of depression. The major symptoms of depression include:

Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair
Lack of interest in hobbies and activities
Increased fatigue
Sleeping issues, including both oversleeping and lack of sleep
Difficulty concentrating or focusing
Suicidal thoughts
Appetite or weight changes

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Gives You The Strength To Heal Your Depression

With the crippling effects of depression, seeking every possible treatment provides the best chance at a holistic recovery. For many people, treatment begins with psychotherapy, which encourages reflective thinking and habit changes to improve depression and prescribed anti-depressant medication. However, these methods may not be sufficient alone.

Recent studies using hyperbaric oxygen therapy for depression demonstrate positive and powerful results when combining this treatment with traditional methods. While practitioners have used these methods for traumatic brain injury treatment, a hyperbaric chamber for depression could significantly impact cognitive functions.

Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Work For Depression?

Since some previous studies were inconclusive in determining the efficacy of using a hyperbaric chamber for depression, there is discussion as to whether these methods have clinical legitimacy. However, recent developments in HBOT show promising impacts on depression patients. Thus, hyperbaric oxygen therapy for mental illness may become a more common practice to address various issues, including depression.

What Does The Evidence Say?

Studies demonstrate the effects of HBOT on a range of mental health disorders and brain injuries. The many positive impacts of HBOT supported by research-based evidence include:

Increased blood flow to the brain
Improved neurological functioning for patients with Autism
Improved psychological functioning and resilience for concussion patients
Increased neurotransmitter health
Increased mental acuity
Mobilizes stem cells and heals
Benefits brain metabolism

These benefits demonstrate the power of HBOT as a potential supplement to other treatment practices. While HBOT in isolation may not be a “cure” for depressive disorders, it can effectively supplement other treatments.

A hyperbaric chamber for depression offers positive neurological benefits that can improve cognitive functions to bolster recovery from depression, and its effects do not appear to taper off after time, as can happen with other treatments. HBOT does not instill the habits and lifestyle changes necessary for full, long-lasting recovery, which is why many patients use it to supplement other forms of treatment, like psychotherapy and medication. Nevertheless, the evidence demonstrates that this treatment can have powerful effects on many of depression’s symptoms.

Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Right For Depression?

HBOT has shown promising results in treating depression. Both depressive disorders and hyperbaric oxygen therapy impact every patient differently. As a result, HBOT could have comprehensive benefits for one depressed patient while producing little effect on another.

Deciding whether or not to augment your treatment with hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a question for your mental health professionals. Consult your doctors to see if they think HBOT could help you. They’ll also have to prescribe the treatment.

How Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Work?

During hyperbaric oxygen therapy, you sit in a chamber that resembles an MRI machine. Within this chamber, your body becomes exposed to a steadily increasing level of oxygen that eventually reaches 100%. Furthermore, the chamber also increases air pressure as your body absorbs the increased oxygen levels.

Exposure times can vary from 80 to 300 minutes. Medical professionals monitor your vitals and condition during this time to prevent side effects. Albeit rare, HBOT can cause oxygen poisoning, which is why deciding to pursue this treatment is a decision you should make in conjunction with medical professionals.

Using HBOT as Depression Treatment

HBOT, as a depression treatment, integrates an exciting and potentially impactful new element into your treatment plan. While psychotherapy and medication may provide certain benefits, the neurological impacts of HBOT create long-lasting benefits that can significantly improve your depressive disorder.

When combined with typical anti-depressant Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) medications, HBOT has been shown to improve brain metabolism and cognitive function after six weeks.

In another study of 29 veterans, the patients who underwent HBOT showed improvement in depression, including a reduction in suicidal thoughts), anxiety, and PTSD symptoms.

Effects of HBOT on Depression

Ultimately, HBOT is not a cure for your depression. The increased oxygen benefits neurological functioning and can augment your treatment.

Certain impacts of HBOT, like increased mental acuity and improved neurotransmitter functioning, can combat some of the crippling symptoms of depression, like fatigue and brain fog. These benefits may help increase your day-to-day functionality, while psychotherapy and medications aim to provide long-term solutions to your depression. Thus, HBOT can help you feel better in the short term, while long-term treatment aims to cure or ease the disorder’s distress.

It’s Time to Feel Better

Why struggle in silence when treatment options are available to combat your depression? HBOT treatment at NexGen Hyperbaric LLC offers an alternative to traditional treatments. With the powerful effects of psychotherapy, medication, and HBOT, a range of options are available to improve mental health and wellness.

The Bottom Line

No one likes struggling with their mental health, but you have more treatment options than you might think. When combined with counseling and medication, HBOT has shown promising results for treating symptoms of depression in many patients.

Consulting your doctor about HBOT for your depression could be a crucial step toward peace and self-love. With the holistic benefits of this unique treatment practice, it’s a promising option to augment your current treatment plan for depression.

Start Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Mental Illness With NexGen Hyperbaric LLC

The therapeutic effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for depression might make this treatment an excellent complement to psychotherapy and medications. NexGen Hyperbaric LLC provides HBOT treatment for patients managing various conditions, including mental health disorders like depression.

Our licensed treatment specialists can consult you on your current condition and help you decide whether hyperbaric oxygen treatment is right for your current neurological condition.

For more information about hyperbaric oxygen therapy for depression, call NexGen Hyperbaric LLC at (888) 567-4302 to schedule your consultation.

Success for Nina O’Brien at the World Alpine Skiing Championships

March 9, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

During the 2022 Beijing Olympics, American skier Nina O’Brien suffered a horrific crash while competing in the women’s giant slalom. The accident resulted in a severe compound tibia and fibula fracture, leaving many ski fans worried about her future in the sport.

However, O’Brian persevered, thanks to hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) from NexGen Hyperbaric which she credits with accelerating her recovery.

Just over a year later, Nina O’Brien returned to the slopes, this time at the World Alpine Skiing Championships in France, where O’Brien helped propel the USA Alpine Ski Team to victory, leaving spectators in awe.

The Hyperbaric Therapy Behind Nina’s Triumphant Recovery

After her accident in Beijing, Nina underwent four surgeries to reconstruct her leg, enduring months of physical therapy to reclaim mobility and return to the sport she loved. While recovering, Nina sought ways to expedite healing without additional invasive procedures. She contacted NexGen Hyperbaric for HBOT treatments and began a routine alongside physical therapy for recovery.

How HBOT Works

HBOT uses 100% medical-grade oxygen and elevated air pressure to expedite recovery from severe injuries and ailments. HBOT increases oxygen levels within the patient’s blood, which helps damaged tissues heal faster and more efficiently.

Nina underwent HBOT treatment for 60 days while continuing her physical therapy. She noticed significant results almost immediately, which allowed her to return to training more quickly. O’Brien continued her HBOT treatment as she began preparing for the World Alpine Skiing Championships and believes it contributed to her impressive performance.

The Results

As O’Brien continued her HBOT treatments, she regained enough strength to return to the slopes. Less than a year after what many in the skiing world considered a career-ending injury, O’Brien silenced doubters questioning her return by excelling on the slopes, helping the US Ski Team succeed in future competitions.

O’Brien continued training and reunited with Team USA at the World Alpine Skiing Championships in early 2023. Her climactic return excited American ski fans, hoping to see the US win its first gold medal in the competition. Fans were not disappointed, as O’Brien’s performance helped the team make history by securing their first gold medal at the World Alpine Skiing Championships.

Unrelenting determination, resilience, and mental fortitude combined with HBOT from NexGen Hyperbaric paved the way for Nina O’Brien’s successful return to the sport she loved.

Ready to Experience High-Quality HBOT Therapy?

NexGen Hyperbaric provides hyperbaric oxygen therapy for patients and athletes across the US. Our HBOT treatments have contributed to the success of athletes just like Nina O’Brien.

We’re here to help your athletes and clients return to play quickly, safely and most importantly, in winning form. Call NexGen Hyperbaric at (888) 567-4302 and schedule a consultation today.

Research Facility at Health Education Center (HEC), WesternU

NEXGEN HYPERBARIC COLLABORATES WITH WESTERNU FOR HYPERBARIC OXYGEN THERAPY RESEARCH

March 2, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Research has shown hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) to be successful in helping people recover from the medical conditions and physical injuries that hinder their daily lives. To further study the health benefits of hyperbaric therapy, including its impact on mental health, Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) and NexGen Hyperbaric have partnered to research the alternative treatment and how it affects mental and physical conditions.

Research takes place at the university’s Lebanon, Oregon campus at the Center of Behavioral Health and hopes to uncover new advantages of the innovative therapy.

WesternU and NexGen Hyperbaric to Focus on PTSD, Brain Injuries

WesternU and NexGen Hyperbaric will study HBOT treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Our team works with leading private and public institutions dedicated to treating mental health through this innovative therapy. The collaboration puts WesternU at the forefront of HBOT studies, and we hope to advance the treatment while providing efficient care for those in need.

At NexGen Hyperbaric, our mission is to explore and provide effective treatments for various physical and mental health issues. We are committed to assisting those suffering from mild to severe mental illnesses.

We research the effects of higher-than-normal air pressure, oxygen and various growth factors, focusing on how they can aid recovery from different ailments. Our services are designed for those seeking alternative treatments for medical conditions, avoiding invasive surgeries or addictive medications.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

HBOT treatment curbs musculoskeletal injuries and physical ailments without surgery. Patients sit in an HBOT chamber as 100% medical grade oxygen fills the space, increasing oxygen levels within the patient’s blood vessels.

As oxygen fills the chamber, the pressure gradually increases. The increased pressure and oxygen levels help patients recover from numerous health issues, including but not limited to:

Carbon monoxide poisoning
Radiation injuries
Middle ear injuries
Wounds
Foot ulcers
Gas embolism
Infections
Decompression sickness

Contact NexGen Hyperbaric to Participate in Our Research

If you’re looking for alternative therapies for mental and physical health while helping advance medical research, contact NexGen Hyperbaric and WesternU to participate in their research and improve your physical and mental health through cutting edge HBOT remedies.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Pain

February 18, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been around since the 1600s but was heavily used in the early 1900s, primarily for deep-sea divers suffering from decompression sickness. It then evolved into aiding multiple breathing ailments, even treating certain types of bone disease.

This type of therapy, also known as HBOT, should only be prescribed by a medical professional. Certain hospitals will contain the chambers used for HBOT.

There are two different types of chambers: monoplace and multiplace chambers. The monoplace’s design is meant for one person to sit inside, similar to an MRI machine, while the multiplace chamber has the capability to treat multiple patients simultaneously.

Once inside, the patient can sit or lie down. While remaining relaxed, they then breathe in and out deeply, which will continue from around 45 minutes to about five hours.

During these sessions, the treatment will begin helping repair injured tissues that are oxygen deprived. As the treatment involves an excess of oxygen being sent throughout the body, it is common for patients to feel pressure in their ears, similar to being inside an airplane. Swallowing or yawning can help relieve this pressure. Once completed, the individual may feel lightheaded or fatigued and may develop a headache.

HBOT has the potential to treat several different ailments, such as:

Carbon monoxide poisoning
Cyanide poisoning
Crush injuries
A form of gangrene known as gas gangrene
Decompression sickness
Decreased blood flow in the arteries
Complications with skin grafts,
Infection of the bone, delayed radiation injury
Air bubble trapped in a blood vessel
Flesh-eating disease
Chronic infection
Diabetic wounds.

Above all, HBOT has been proven as an effective treatment for chronic illnesses.

The Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen in Chronic Pain Syndrome

Many adults who suffer from chronic pain are looking for an effective way to relieve the pain. Unfortunately, chronic pain is not easy to cure. In many instances, it is not possible to cure permanently.

Hyperbaric oxygen has been used to treat those with chronic pain with promising results. Studies conducted on animals have shown that there is an analgesic effect as a result of this type of therapy.

For those with chronic external wounds, hyperbaric oxygen treatment will deliver oxygen-rich plasma to the tissues in the body that are deprived of oxygen. This is necessary as the wound swells, causing the tissues to die. HBOT prevents swelling, allowing oxygen to revive the dying tissue.

For extensive tissue damage, when healing slows or stops due to a crush injury, HBOT allows oxygen radical scavengers to prevent more harmful radicals from being released. This treatment can also block bacteria from entering the body, allowing the immune system to strengthen and white blood cells to focus on attacking intrusive cells. It can also assist with new blood vessel growth, allowing collagen and new skin cells to develop.

This therapy aims to accelerate recovery time, which it achieves by increasing ATP production.

Other chronic ailments, such as Lyme disease, can potentially benefit from HBOT therapy. Since Lyme disease thrives on low oxygen levels, HBOT is effective in fighting against it as it provides an increase of oxygen to the body.

Another type of chronic pain that can benefit from HBOT is chronic back pain. For all chronic ailments, the treatment and the benefits of receiving treatment are the same.

The Major Benefits of Hyperbaric Therapy

The number one benefit of receiving this treatment is a faster recovery time.

Increased circulation is another significant benefit. With increased circulation, toxins leave the body while oxygen and mineral levels increase.

This treatment can also help reduce inflammation, one of the main reasons why wounds or chronic illnesses do not heal or take longer to heal. Patients may also experience increased blood flow, which is extremely beneficial to those with diabetes.

Another benefit of hyperbaric therapy is increased collagen production, crucial to creating new skin, connective tissue, and blood vessels. It can also strengthen the immune system, as white blood cells are more functional.

In addition, patients can sometimes enjoy anti-aging benefits through HBOT, as it helps restore and renew the body’s cells.

With such a wide range of physical benefits, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a highly advantageous treatment option for numerous conditions. While everyone reacts differently to treatments, patients will surely enjoy at least one of the many benefits of HBOT.

Clinical Effectiveness of HBOT

Currently, HBOT is typically the most effective for those suffering chronic pain due to headaches, fibromyalgia, or complex regional pain syndrome. An independent research agency, CADTH, conducted a study to discover the effectiveness of HBOT for those with fibromyalgia.

The study included giving the HBOT treatment over the course of five days each week for a total of two months. The results concluded that a higher tolerance for pain was achieved for these participants, lower stress, as well as an overall higher quality of life.

One study involved a 41-year-old who suffered from constant pain in his foot. After being treated with HBOT, he was able to experience lasting pain relief, allowing him to return to work and enjoy daily life once more.

Another study included participants struggling with myofascial pain syndrome that was given the HBOT treatment over the course of two weeks, five days per week. The results were similar to the previous study in that they obtained a higher tolerance for pain and a better quality of life. Participants declared that these results lasted for about three months.

Research isn’t conclusive on the long-term effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. While these studies mentioned have positive results, there is not enough research to confirm whether this type of therapy is long-lasting. However, the results of these studies are promising, especially for those suffering from ailments related to chronic pain, and deserve further investigation.

Quantity of Research Available on Hyperbaric Therapy

Researchers are still conducting studies in this area. Most include the long-term improvements of the patients experiencing fatigue, sleeping habits, and tender points. However, limited studies may exist due to the low number of randomized control groups. Because of this, results may be insufficient or inconclusive.

While this treatment may benefit those struggling with chronic pain and fatigue, insomnia, and tender points, we need further research.

A Review of Cost-Effectiveness of Using Hyperbaric Therapy

Chronic illness is difficult to live with; therefore, an individual can spend lots of money trying to find treatment with long-lasting results. Over-the-counter medications may offer temporary relief. Surgeries may also offer temporary relief, depending on the condition, if surgery is an option.

While over-the-counter medication is not always expensive, it can still be costly to the person, as they will continually need to purchase it. Surgeries, if an option for their condition, are also expensive.

However, using HBOT may be cost-effective for the patient if they are able to have longer-lasting results. It is also a non-invasive option for those who prefer to avoid surgery.

For those looking for HBOT treatment, remember that Medicare, Medicaid, and many insurance companies cover it. However, coverage can depend on why the individual is requesting this treatment. Before undergoing this therapy, check with your provider.

Limitations of Using Hyperbaric Therapy

Although there are many benefits for those who use HBOT, it is not recommended for everyone. Those who have had surgery on the ear, have a cold, or those with lung disease should not use this therapy.

In addition, those considering this treatment should understand that the changes in the atmospheric pressure experienced when in the chamber tend to affect patients. It is also important to note that this treatment is unavailable in all areas of the country.

As with any medical treatment, risks and complications are involved– the most common being issues to the ear. Other issues that can result are damage to the eye, decreased blood sugar levels, sinus issues, and even lung collapse. Rare cases have also reported oxygen poisoning.

If you are suffering from a chronic illness or chronic pain, looking into hyperbaric therapy may be a good option for you. While this therapy can treat many ailments, keep in mind that the results may be temporary, or it may not even be an option for you, depending on your location.

In most circumstances, patients achieved pain relief, which continued for at least three months. Remember, as you are researching treatment, why you are seeking this treatment may affect coverage. Understand the pros and cons and speak with your insurance provider on treatment coverage.

Additional Read: HBOT for Chronic Pain from Bowel Dysfunction

Contact NexGen Hyperbaric LLC to Learn More About HBOT for Chronic Pain

Are you seeking more information to decide whether or not HBOT is for you? Contact us at NexGen Hyperbaric to learn more by calling (888) 567-4302.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for the Treatment of Chronic Pain From Bowel Dysfunction

February 11, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) effective for managing chronic pain from bowel dysfunction? Many patients who struggle with gastrointestinal disorders do not respond well to conventional treatments like corticosteroids and anti-inflammatories, requiring surgery to restore digestive function. As a result, more patients are looking toward alternative healing regimens to avoid these invasive procedures.

Irritable bowel disease (IBD) is a condition that affects hundreds of thousands of people living in the United States. Inflammation of the gastrointestinal system can cause some patients to develop painful symptoms such as persistent abdominal cramping, soreness, diarrhea, and fever. These problems can escalate with age and make it difficult for an individual to perform at work or maintain a healthy social life.

Nearly a quarter of those living with Ulcerative Colitis undergo hospitalization and surgery for their symptoms. However, many patients who seek surgical treatment for IBD experience postoperative complications that require alternative healing regimens.

Some doctors believe hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a practical solution for mitigating chronic pain during recovery.

Scholarly circles continue to debate how effective this therapy is for treating IBD. Reviews by Rossignol (2012) and Dulai et al. (2014) attempted to quantify the response rates of patients with conditions like Crohn’s disease. Findings from 36 studies indicated that HBOT improved the symptoms of over three-quarters of participants.

Lancet Oncology published a 2015 study by Glover et al. that monitored the response rates of patients with radiation-induced chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction. Unlike earlier reviews, researchers could not find substantial evidence that HBOT alleviated participants’ symptoms. Some doctors reconsider HBOT as a postoperative solution for post-radiotherapy.

Understanding Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Oxygen in the bloodstream allows new cells to grow and survive. Unfortunately, patients who experience soft tissue injuries sometimes do not receive sufficient oxygen to heal. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a safe treatment that aims to increase the amount of oxygen a patient’s blood vessels can carry.

Doctors administer HBOT as both an elective and emergency solution for various medical conditions, sometimes supported by conventional treatments before or after the procedure. During therapy, a doctor secures their patient inside a pressurized environment (usually a chamber or a room). The patient then breathes 100% oxygen while the pressure in the room slowly increases up to three times the normal level.

Doctors can utilize two types of hyperbaric systems when administering oxygen: monoplace or multiplace. Monoplace chambers are compact tubes in which a single patient lies while the pressure around them slowly increases. Multiplace chambers fit several patients and deliver oxygen through masks or medical hoods.

The high oxygen infusion allows patients’ blood to resist harmful bacteria and release stem cells that facilitate healing. Depending on the patient’s condition, HBOT can last just a few minutes or as long as two hours before the doctor returns room pressure to normal levels.

Currently, the FDA approves the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat medical conditions such as:

Infections
Necrotizing wounds
Radiation injuries
Burns
Anemia
Decompression sickness
Diabetic wounds
Reduced blood flow to arteries

Additional Read: How Peripheral Neuropathy Is Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Radiation-Induced Bowel Dysfunction and HBOT | Clinical Trial

Doctors have been treating chronic pain after pelvic radiotherapy with HBOT for decades. However, many doctors who use this treatment cite non-randomized studies to justify the practice.

In 2015, researchers affiliated with the National Institute of Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at The Royal Marsden attempted to fill the gaps left by these studies. They executed a conclusive, double-blind study to determine the effectiveness of HBOT after radiotherapy for pelvic malignancies.

Participants included adults (above 18) with chronic pain and/or rectal bleeding that persisted for at least 12 months after pelvic radiotherapy. Additionally, each subject underwent at least three months of conventional medical treatment for their conditions and displayed no signs of cancer recurrence before participating.

Researchers randomized the study using a computer to divide the subjects into two groups. The first group would receive 100% oxygen in the HBOT chamber. The control group would receive 21% oxygen.

Both groups underwent HBOT for 90 minutes a day, five days a week, for eight consecutive weeks. The staff knew which treatment the participants would receive, though the physicians administering patient care and the subjects themselves did not.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Chronic Pain and Rectal Bleeding Results

Before receiving the treatment, patients filled out a questionnaire describing their symptoms. Twelve months after HBOT, they submitted a follow-up questionnaire to detail any changes in their conditions.

55 participants received active HBOT, while 29 received sham-controlled treatment. 75 (89%) of subjects who received eight weeks of therapy returned to baseline conditions (such as rectal bleeding) within two weeks of completing the trial.

Researchers found little difference between the post-treatment conditions of those who received 100% oxygen vs. 21% oxygen. The study did not provide enough evidence to suggest that hyperbaric oxygen therapy for chronic pain benefits those with radiation-induced bowel dysfunction.

Researchers also noted that more studies are necessary to develop a comprehensive understanding of HBOT’s effects on these patients.

Should the Narrative About Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Change?

The HBOT study for radiation-induced bowel dysfunction offers some insight for doctors who administer this treatment.

First, it suggests that hyperbaric oxygen treatment may not be an appropriate solution to address all types of bowel dysfunction. The 2015 data contradicts non-randomized studies and fails to provide substantial evidence that suggests HBOT is a long-term solution for those managing chronic pain after pelvic radiotherapy. It also fails to reproduce optimistic results similar to the Rossignol (2012) and Dulai et al. (2014) reviews.

So, should the medical community change its narrative about hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Despite evidence suggesting HBOT is ineffective for treating bowel dysfunction after radiotherapy, HBOT could still fortify the patient’s body against future infections. There is significant research indicating that HBOT helps reduce inflammation, repair cells, and strengthen the immune system. Still, doctors should consider administering HBOT in collaboration with conventional treatment plans for the best results.

Who Else Benefits From Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Those who manage chronic pain from radiation-induced bowel dysfunction may not be the best candidate for HBOT if they seek long-term relief. Further research may also be necessary to conclusively determine if this therapy is practical for other IBD conditions, such as Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn’s Disease.

Those who manage chronic pain from fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and the prolonged symptoms of COVID may benefit from HBOT. Increased oxygen in the bloodstream promotes cell health, improves cognitive functions and motor controls, and reduces sickness fatigue for some patients.

This therapy can be dangerous for those with collapsed lungs or severe infections. In these scenarios, the pressurized environment could cause further damage to the body.

Doctors should conduct a comprehensive consultation with their patients to discuss the benefits and risks of HBOT on a case-by-case basis.

Potential Side Effects and Concerns Associated With Treatment

Despite the re-emergence of pain and rectal bleeding, none of the participants in the above study mentioned adverse or escalated symptoms related to their treatment. Therefore, HBOT is generally a low-risk procedure for those with IBD or other forms of bowel dysfunction. Still, doctors should keep a close eye on patients’ medical history and prescriptions before recommending HBOT.

Some patients who undergo hyperbaric oxygen therapy report side effects such as the following:

Dizziness
Nausea
Headaches
Fluid buildup
Sinus pain
Changes in vision

Most of these side effects are temporary results of pressure changes in the body. Therefore, patients can expect these problems to disappear shortly after treatment. Still, side effects can make the healing process much less comfortable for those managing chronic pain from bowel dysfunction.

Other Considerations

Every hyperbaric chamber facility must comply with FDA-approved regulations. Systems that are unsafe for medical use – sometimes called “soft chambers” – may not guarantee oxygen purity. As a result, patients with chronic pain could receive ineffective treatment.

Power outages or disruptions can also cause the chamber to deflate, creating a suffocation risk for patients.

Medical staff should routinely monitor and secure their oxygen tanks in safe locations before administering treatment. Oxygen is flammable and highly explosive.

It may be appropriate for a physician to discuss other options if a patient with chronic pain from bowel dysfunction is not responding to HBOT after several weeks of treatment. Long-term exposure to high-pressurized environments can cause adverse symptoms or prevent patients from seeking alternative solutions to manage their conditions.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC

It is essential to seek reliable medical care when you manage chronic pain or an injury. At NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, we treat patients with clinically tested, FDA-approved solutions.

For over 19 years, we have treated patients for various symptoms using hyperbaric oxygen therapy. We are passionate about providing ethical treatment and quality communication for patients of all backgrounds. Our facility is safe, clean, and regulated to ensure that you get the highest quality comfort during your visit.

If you manage chronic pain from radiation-induced bowel dysfunction or another IBD condition, ask your doctor which options are available.

Contact NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, in Edwards, CO, today. Schedule a hyperbaric oxygen therapy consultation at 888-567-4302.

How Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Reverse Aging?

February 11, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a modern, medically proven technique many physicians use to promote healing after an injury or surgery. Some doctors also offer HBOT as an elective procedure for patients who want to restore and maintain a youthful look. So, how does hyperbaric oxygen therapy reverse aging?

As humans age, skin loses elasticity, muscles become less dense, and cognitive functions start to decline. In addition, aging causes the body to stop producing collagen, causing the skin to wrinkle and lose some of its youthful “glow.” This process can occur quickly, depending on a person’s genetics and health conditions.

Many people spend thousands of dollars on anti-aging beauty products from brands that claim to revitalize skin. Some treatments only mask the aging process or damage the body further with harsh chemicals. Often, beauty care companies do not target the root causes of aging.

Healthy cell growth is fundamental for maintaining a youthful appearance. More oxygen in the blood improves metabolic stability and cell production—additionally, higher oxygen levels in the brain support cognitive function and alertness.

Recent studies indicate that HBOT may be one of the first clinically supported techniques to modulate the pathophysiology of aging skin in humans successfully. Read on as we unpack this study and explain how hyperbaric oxygen therapy can enhance the anti-aging process for healthy adults, levels in the brain support cognitive function and alertness.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: The Basics

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a non-invasive, clinically tested, and FDA-approved medical solution suitable for treating a wide range of conditions. Doctors primarily use HBOT to deliver oxygen into their patients’ blood to facilitate cell growth and heal soft tissue damage. Many doctors also administer this treatment for people who experience decompression sickness (“the bends”) and radiation injuries.

HBOT takes between three minutes and two hours to complete, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. First, the doctor determines which type of HBOT system the patient needs. For example, monoplace chambers usually fit one person, while multiplace chambers provide enough space for two or more.

After the patient is comfortable, the doctor can pressurize the chamber up to three times its normal pressure. This action causes the patient’s lungs to expand as more oxygen enters the body. HBOT helps fight off infections, reinforces the immune system, and promotes essential biological functions.

Many patients also choose HBOT to help them heal injuries faster. Healthy cell growth helps combat problems like:

Anemia
Brain abscesses
Third degree burns
Carbon monoxide poisoning
Crush injuries
Necrotic injuries
Diabetic foot ulcers
Traumatic brain injuries
Loss of vision

Additional Read: What Conditions Can Be Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

HBOT can be an excellent supportive procedure for conventional treatments like surgery and prescriptions. In the case of anti-aging, it may provide faster results than some traditional solutions. Researchers continue to explore the benefits of HBOT as more technology becomes available to monitor its effects.

Utilizing the Hyperbaric Chamber: Aging Study

How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy reverse aging when compared to other solutions?

Many people claim that over-the-counter skin care products, anti-inflammatory drugs, and fringe diets can offer anti-aging benefits. However, few credible studies can support these claims. A 2021 study written by Hachmo et al. at the Research and Development Unit of Shamir Medical Center and its affiliates highlights the results of a four-year-long prospective clinical trial evaluating the anti-aging benefits of HBOT.

Seventy healthy adult participants committed to a three-month, regulated control period for this hyperbaric chamber aging study. At the end of the three months, researchers collected a skin biopsy from each to serve as a baseline for the trial. Participants then underwent three months of daily HBOT sessions, after which the researchers collected another biopsy sample.

The purpose of collecting skin biopsies was to identify changes in collagen fibers, elastic fibers, and blood vessels after prolonged exposure to 100% oxygen. Prior to the evaluation, a blinded pathology technician applied a formaldehyde solution to the samples and waited for paraffinization.

Researchers identified changes in elastic fiber length and thickness. They also tracked fiber fragmentation and the number of senescent tissue cells before and after HBOT. Fiber fragmentation and senescent cells can accelerate tissue remodeling, contributing to organismal aging.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Anti-Aging Results

Once the trial ended, researchers observed several changes in their samples – most notably, a significant increase in collagen density, effect size, and elastic fiber length (despite no changes in elastic fiber density and thickness).

Sixty daily HBOT sessions allowed physicians to reduce papillary dermis thickness and increase elastic fiber length and collagen fiber density in a healthy older male. Post-HBOT results also showed decreased fiber fragmentation and senescent cells in tissue. It was the first time a human study demonstrated that therapeutic intervention could accomplish such a feat.

The study suggests that q and cellular metabolism, leading to healthier cell growth. HBOT may also reduce inflammatory reactions, aid the development of new blood vessels, and alleviate oxidative stress, which hastens the aging process.

In summary, the study indicates that routine hyperbaric oxygen therapy anti-aging chambers may facilitate the longevity and restoration of skin cells in healthy adults.

The Hyperbaric Chamber Benefits: Anti-Aging

The above study provides optimistic results for those seeking effective anti-aging solutions. Changes in collagen production and elastic fiber length indicate that a high oxygen infusion can promote healthier skin and biological function. Additionally, subjects reported only two side effects in the study, only one of which – moderate barotrauma to the ear – needed treatment.

Still, how does hyperbaric oxygen therapy reverse aging associated with cognitive decline?

Recent studies involving patients who manage prolonged symptoms of COVID suggest that HBOT can reduce fatigue and improve awareness. These findings could indicate that HBOT is also practical for offsetting adverse neurological effects of aging. However, more conclusive research may be necessary to understand HBOT can reduce or reverse aging beyond the dermis.

Using the Hyperbaric Chamber for Aging: Is It Suitable for Everyone?

Can everyone use the hyperbaric chamber for aging? The FDA considers HBOT a low-risk procedure. However, it may not be suitable for everyone – especially those with specific medical conditions.

Most clinical studies focus on the effects of HBOT on physically healthy and neurotypical adults. Those with mental health conditions or severe age-related injuries may not be the best candidates for HBOT anti-aging treatments. Pressurized environments can cause problems for patients with collapsed lungs or severe infections.

Healthy elderly patients may enjoy some benefits in using HBOT to reduce the adverse effects of aging. Even in a patient’s later years, treatments can slow muscle tissue degradation and help patients experience a higher quality of life.

Physicians should always take the time to discuss this treatment with their patients in detail before recommending it. Some safer alternative options may be available.

Additional Read: Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Clinic: 9 Essential Factors to Consider When Selecting HBOT Clinic

Potential Side Effects of HBOT

Like most medical treatments, those who undergo elective hyperbaric oxygen therapy can experience some minor side effects. Potential risks include:

Middle ear damage from the highly pressurized environment
Myopia or “nearsightedness” (this problem is usually temporary)
Lung injuries caused by significant changes in pressure
Seizures as a result of oxygen toxicity in the nervous system
Diabetic complications caused by changes in blood sugar

The FDA regulates HBOT facilities to ensure that they are safe for use. Those who seek treatment from non-standardized facilities – also called “soft chambers” – risk potential injuries, some of which could be life-threatening.

Power disruptions can cause the hyperbaric oxygen system to deflate. This scenario could cause a patient to suffocate. Additionally, the risk of oxygen tank combustion increases when operators need to secure flammable materials in the proper locations.

Key Takeaways

How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy reverse aging? In short, HBOT addresses many of the hallmarks of aging, such as telomere shortening, senescent cell clearance, and blood vessel development. In addition, infusing oxygen into the bloodstream enables the body to restore skin texture and elasticity.

Oxygen also feeds muscles, bones, and joints, which can become weak over time. Some evidence suggests that HBOT helps facilitate stronger cognitive functions and boosts energy levels that often decline with age.

HBOT fortifies the body’s immune response, allowing it to heal and resist harmful bacteria that could cause the body to age faster.

Patients can safely take advantage of these practical solutions by seeking treatment from a regulated facility. This way, the physician can develop a treatment plan that suits their medical history and personal needs.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Anti-Aging Solutions From NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC

Annually, millions of Americans invest in anti-aging products and strategies to look and feel younger. At NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, we take pride in providing our patients with accessible solutions at a comfortable facility. We administer hyperbaric oxygen therapy for those looking to restore their youthful features and patients seeking treatment after an injury or surgery.

We dedicate ourselves to providing unmatched care to everyone who comes through our door. You can expect transparent communication and professional advice from our team. We have over 19 years of HBOT experience.

Don’t hesitate to contact our representatives if you have questions about hyperbaric oxygen technology or the procedure. We have all the answers you need.

How does hyperbaric oxygen therapy reverse aging? Learn more with NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, in Edwards, CO. Schedule a consultation at 888-567-4302.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For Peripheral Neuropathy

How Peripheral Neuropathy Is Treated with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

February 2, 2023/in Blog/by Ryan Kesner

Patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy experience various symptoms, often starting with numbness in the extremities and progressing to severe, potentially life-threatening symptoms. Treatments have historically included anti-seizure medications, antidepressants, and pain medications with a high probability of addiction, such as oxycodone. However, recent studies have shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may provide non-addictive relief for patients suffering from peripheral neuropathy.

To understand the benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy, we must first recognize what peripheral neuropathy is and how the disease affects its victims.

What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy, also called neuropathic pain, manifests due to the inability of nerve cells to function correctly. As with all cells in the body, nerve cells require oxygenation to remain functional and active. If deprived of oxygen, the cells shrink and lose contact with each other, forcing the electrical communications between the cells to fail.

The loss of oxygen and correlating nerve cell shrinkage leads to various painful side effects, including:

Numbness or pain in hands and feet
Overly sensitive skin
The inability to feel pain or temperature changes
Cramping muscles
Difficulty walking or moving around
Low blood pressure
Lightheadedness or dizziness
The inability to control their bladder or bowels
Weakness or loss of control of face or bodily muscles

Types of Peripheral Neuropathy

Nerve damage may occur due to illness, disease, or injury. Patients may present with any of the three types of peripheral neuropathy:

Mononeuropathy: This neuropathy only affects a single nerve.
Multiple mononeuropathies: Single nerves in multiple areas of the body suffer from neuropathy.
Polyneuropathy: The condition in which multiple nerves suffer from neuropathy. Patients often suffer from this type of neuropathy over others, with the affected nerves either ranging all over the body or appearing in a single joint area.

Treating peripheral neuropathy usually includes multiple methods to relieve pain and numbness. Most doctors focus on treating the underlying causes, hoping that they can lower or eliminate the effects of central nervous system damage with those treatments. However, some treatment types may worsen nerve damage, such as nerve-blocking medications, opioids, or surgeries.

Common culprits behind the development of peripheral neuropathy

Diabetes

Diabetes patients can have excessive blood sugar levels that damage the vessels supplying oxygenated blood to nerve cells. As these vessels become inert, pain or numbness develops.

Health Conditions

Poor health, such as excessive alcohol use, drug abuse, or unaddressed vitamin deficiencies, may lead to peripheral neuropathy.

Medication

Chemotherapy, long-term antibiotic use, or certain epilepsy medications could induce peripheral neuropathy.

Injuries

A surprising amount of injuries can lead to peripheral neuropathy, including everything from a severe bruise to a gunshot. In addition, sports injuries that cause torn or overly-stretched muscles may also induce peripheral neuropathy.

Nerve Pressure

Often due to repetitive motions like typing, remaining in one position over a long period of time, or using crutches may put pressure on nerves and cause them to degenerate.

Autoimmune Diseases

Many autoimmune diseases can either attack nerves or cause inflammation that puts pressure on nerve endings, including Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, or other chronic inflammatory diseases.

As these medical conditions progress, the likelihood of peripheral neuropathy increases. Aging patients with these diseases make great candidates for hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, also called HBOT, consists of therapy sessions during which patients breathe in pure oxygen filters throughout their bodies and relieves various symptoms and injuries. The body requires a certain level of oxygen to increase its healing properties and relieve blood vessels from excess air bubbles (such as embolisms), and pure, pressurized oxygen meets that need.

What Happens During Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatments?

Patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments may receive the treatment alone in a monoplace unit or utilize a multiperson hyperbaric oxygen room in which they breathe the oxygen through a mask placed over their face. Some patients receive treatment while in the hospital for other injuries or illnesses, but hyperbaric oxygen therapy can also occur as an outpatient treatment.

During the treatment, technicians raise the air pressure in the room to two or three times the normal air pressure. As a result, the air in the room consists of pure oxygen. As patients breathe it in, their body utilizes the extra oxygen to make attempts at healing slowly.

Specialists utilizing hyperbaric oxygen therapy for their patients have taken significant steps to create a relaxing, therapeutic environment. As a result, patients do not have to breathe any differently than usual to enjoy the effects of the treatment. They may engage in activities like reading, watching TV, or listening to music while undergoing HBOT. This restful environment makes it easier for the treatment to do its job and more effectively treat HBOT patients.

How Many Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatments Does It Take for Results to Show?

The amount of necessary HBOT treatments depends on the patient’s disease or injury. For instance, diabetic patients with wounds that refuse to heal may need upwards of 50 treatments for results to show, while someone with bubbles in their blood vessels may only need three. Likewise, patients who suffer from recurring health problems might intermittently use hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments to maintain a healthier, more comfortable quality of life.

Does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Help Neuropathy?

Studies show that peripheral neuropathy symptoms diminish with hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments. Test subjects showed a marked reduction in nervous system damage and increased enjoyment in previously limited functions, including:

Stabilized blood sugar levels
Better organ function
Improved cognitive function
Higher energy levels

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy benefits patients with peripheral neuropathy by helping their bodies generate new blood capillaries. These new vessels stimulate nerves to repair themselves and even help new ones begin to form. As these new nerve fibers take shape, peripheral neuropathy dissipates.

The secret to keeping peripheral neuropathy at bay includes several methods performed in conjunction:

Continued Treatment of Underlying Conditions

While HBOT can help patients with the symptoms of conditions like diabetes or cancer, the therapy cannot replace regimens to treat or cure the problems causing peripheral neuropathy. Therefore, doctors utilizing hyperbaric oxygen therapy as part of their treatment plan should carefully monitor patient improvement or decline and adjust the HBOT treatments as necessary.

Lifestyle Changes and Improvements

Many patients take advantage of hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments without making lifestyle changes that would eradicate their need for the treatments. HBOT may help patients with their neuropathy, but if they continue with dangerous lifestyle choices like excessive alcohol use or drug abuse, the therapy won’t make lasting improvements. Patients must continue to make positive lifestyle adjustments while undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy so the treatments can permanently improve their quality of life.

Additional Read: 5 Ways Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Change Your Life

Continued Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Treatments

While some illnesses, diseases, and injuries require a small number of hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments, continued treatments may improve other areas of a patient’s life. For example, doctors may begin HBOT treatments to help a diabetic patient with an unhealing wound on their foot, but with continued treatment, they may start to regain feeling in that foot. These benefits may help patients’ overall quality of life by ensuring that the problem they experienced in the first place won’t occur a second time.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Peripheral Neuropathy Patients at NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC

Patients suffering from various medical conditions have benefitted from hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Not only does the treatment provide a massive boost of oxygen for the body, but it also helps treat nerve damage. Studies show that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can even regenerate new blood vessels that reconnect dead nerves, liberating patients from the numbness and pain caused by peripheral neuropathy.

If you have questions about hyperbaric oxygen therapy and would like professional guidance, call the team at NexGen Hyperbaric, LLC, at 888-567-4302. We can further explain the benefits and other factors to consider when using hyperbaric oxygen therapy for peripheral neuropathy.