HBOT involves placing a patient in a hyperbaric chamber. Either a large room or a smaller, individual unit. Increasing atmospheric pressure is up to three times higher than normal air pressure. Under these conditions, patients breathe 100% oxygen. Which significantly increases the oxygen saturation of the blood^[1][2]. This hyper-oxygenated blood circulates throughout the body. Promoting healing & regeneration at a cellular level.

HBOT was first utilized in the mid-20th century for treating decompression sickness. A hazard of scuba diving. Its applications have expanded significantly over the years:

Wound Healing

HBOT is effective in accelerating the healing process of chronic wounds. Such as diabetic foot ulcers, by enhancing oxygen delivery to damaged tissues^[1][6].

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

It is a primary treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning. Helping to displace carbon monoxide from hemoglobin & restore normal oxygen levels^[1].

Infection Control

The high levels of oxygen delivered during HBOT are toxic to certain bacteria. Which can reduce infections. Particularly anaerobic bacterial infections & gas gangrene^[1].

Neurological Conditions

More recent research has explored the use of HBOT in treating neurological conditions like^[5]:

• stroke
• traumatic brain injuries
• long COVID

Where it helps reduce inflammation & promote neuroplasticity.

The therapeutic benefits of HBOT are primarily due to its ability to increase oxygen concentration in:

• all body fluids
• tissues
• cells

HBOT enhances the body’s immune response to fight bacterial & fungal infections. Aiding in the recovery from severe soft tissue infections. Some of the well-documented benefits include:

Enhanced Healing

By increasing oxygen levels in the bloodstream. HBOT helps foster new blood vessel formation & tissue regeneration. Speeding up the healing process^[6][1].

Reduced Inflammation

HBOT has been shown to decrease inflammation & edema, which can significantly improve outcomes in inflammatory conditions^[1].

Neurological Improvement

For neurological conditions. HBOT can stimulate the formation of new neural connections & improve brain function^[5].

HBOT has shown remarkable benefits in treating various medical conditions. Including but not limited to:

Radiation Injuries

HBOT can alleviate the side effects of radiation therapy in cancer patients. Promoting tissue healing & reducing inflammation.

Chronic Wounds

HBOT stimulates the growth of new blood vessels. And enhances the body’s ability to heal chronic wounds, such as:

• diabetic foot ulcers
• non-healing surgical wounds
• radiation-induced tissue injuries

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

HBOT helps eliminate carbon monoxide from the bloodstream. Reducing the risk of long-term complications associated with carbon monoxide poisoning.

Non-Healing Bone Fractures

HBOT aids in bone repair & regeneration. Accelerating the healing process for non-healing bone fractures.

While HBOT is generally safe, it is not devoid of risks. Potential side effects include middle ear injuries, sinus problems, & in rare cases, oxygen toxicity. Which can lead to seizures^[1][3]. These risks are typically managed by adjusting the pressure levels & duration of treatment. They are generally reversible with proper medical care.

Despite its many applications, HBOT is not universally applicable for all medical conditions. It requires specific protocols tailored to each condition's needs. Treatments are usually conducted in specialized facilities. As research continues, the potential applications of HBOT are expanding. With ongoing studies investigating its efficacy in newer areas. Like psychiatric disorders & autoimmune diseases^[4][5].

During your HBOT sessions at Dr. Manny Emenike’s Internal Medicine practice, you can expect a warm & supportive atmosphere. Our team will guide you through the entire process, addressing any questions or concerns you may have.

HBOT sessions last between 60 & 90 minutes. During which you can relax inside the hyperbaric chamber. Many patients find this time to be an excellent opportunity to unwind, read, or listen to music.

The number of HBOT sessions varies on your specific medical condition & response to treatment. Dr. Manny Emenike will create your personalized treatment plan. To ensure the best possible outcome for you.

Athletes have found tremendous benefits in HBOT treatments. Professional athletes & sports organizations incorporate hyperbaric chambers into their training regiment. The increased oxygen promotes blood flow & waste removal, expediting recovery time. The heightened oxygen levels enhance brain function & decision-making abilities. Providing athletes with improved focus & quicker decision-making during games. HBOT’s elevated oxygen levels accelerate healing time from injuries. Enabling athletes a swift return to training & competition.

Prominent athletes regularly use hyperbaric chambers for recovery, training, enhancement, & well-being. Such as:

• Steve Weatherford (NFL)
• Terrell Owens (NFL)
• Rashad Jennings (NFL)
• Matt Kemp (MLB)
• Adrian Beltre (MLB)
• Tiger Woods (PGA)
• Urijah Faber (UFC)
• Michael Phelps (Olympic Swimmer)

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy remains a vital tool in modern medicine. Offering significant benefits for a variety of health conditions. With its ability to enhance oxygen delivery to tissues. HBOT plays a crucial role in treating conditions. That benefits from increased oxygen levels. As research evolves, new therapeutic potentials for HBOT are discovered. Promising to expand its use in clinical practice.