HOW DOES IT WORK?
Within the hyperbaric field there is often conversations of on label and off label indications. Certain conditions are potentially insurance reimbursable while other conditions are not. While it is important to discuss and even debate these different indications, understanding the mechanisms of action is far more important. If we have a strong knowledge of the mechanisms we will be more able to understand all the potential uses of hyperbaric therapy and apply it safely and effectively. When it really comes down to it, hyperbaric is not really treating the conditions directly. We are applying a dosage of oxygen and cell signaling which ultimately lead to all the changes, adaptations and benefits we see with hyperbaric oxygenation.
Under normal circumstances, oxygen is absorbed into circulation when we breathe and transported throughout the body only by red blood cells. Under pressure, oxygen can be dissolved into all of the body’s fluids, the plasma, the lymphatic system, the central nervous system fluids, and the bone. This allows us to dissolve, transport and deliver many more times the normal oxygen to our tissues and cells.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy improves the quality of life of the patient in many areas. Many conditions such as PTSD and stroke have responded favorably to hyperbaric treatment.
