Conditions Treated by HBOT

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is used to treat a variety of medical conditions. The therapy leverages increased atmospheric pressure and pure oxygen to promote healing and recovery across different health issues. Below are the primary categories of conditions treated by HBOT:

FDA Cleared Treatments

HBOT has been approved by the FDA for several specific medical conditions, ensuring its efficacy and safety for these uses. These treatments are also known as insurance reimbursable indications:

• Decompression Sickness: Commonly known as “the bends,” this condition affects divers who ascend too quickly.
• Air or Gas Embolism: Bubbles of air or gas in the bloodstream that can obstruct blood flow.
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide, often from smoke inhalation.
• Gas Gangrene: A severe bacterial infection that produces gas within tissues.
• Crush Injury: Severe trauma to muscles and tissues, often from accidents.
• Compartment Syndrome: Increased pressure within muscles leading to decreased blood flow.
• Chronic Non-Healing Wounds: Particularly diabetic foot ulcers.
• Radiation Tissue Damage: Injuries resulting from radiation therapy.
• Skin Grafts and Flaps: Supporting the healing process of transplanted skin.
• Thermal Burns: Severe burns requiring enhanced healing.
• Severe Anemia: When a blood transfusion is not an option.

Emerging Treatments

Research and clinical practice are continually expanding the applications of HBOT. Emerging treatments show promising results for various conditions, although they might not yet have FDA approval.

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Supporting recovery and cognitive function.
• Stroke: Enhancing brain repair and function post-stroke.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders: Improving cognitive and behavioral outcomes.
• Lyme Disease: Reducing chronic symptoms and supporting overall recovery.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Enhancing energy levels and reducing fatigue.

Chronic Conditions

HBOT is increasingly used to manage chronic conditions, providing relief and improving quality of life.

• Fibromyalgia: Reducing pain and fatigue.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Slowing progression and alleviating symptoms.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Reducing inflammation and joint pain.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Supporting gut healing and reducing inflammation.

Acute Injuries

For acute injuries, HBOT accelerates the healing process and improves recovery outcomes.

• Sports Injuries: Enhancing recovery from sprains, strains, and other injuries.
• Surgical Recovery: Reducing recovery time and complications post-surgery.
• Fractures: Promoting faster and more complete healing of broken bones.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Reducing swelling and pain, and speeding up recovery.

Performance and Recovery

Athletes and active individuals use HBOT to boost performance and recovery.

• Enhanced Athletic Performance: Improving endurance and strength.
• Faster Recovery Times: Reducing downtime between training sessions.
• Muscle Soreness: Minimizing post-exercise muscle soreness.

List of 100+ Internationally Approved Indications

Internationally, HBOT is approved for over 100 medical conditions. These indications vary by country and include a wide range of health issues, reflecting the global recognition of HBOT’s therapeutic potential. To view the full list of internationally approved treatments click here.