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.
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.
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.
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.
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.