Category: HBOT Blog

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often invisible, but its effects can be deeply life-altering. For veterans, first responders, survivors of trauma, and many others, the symptoms of PTSD such as flashbacks, anxiety, hypervigilance, and insomnia can make daily life an uphill battle. Traditional treatments like talk therapy, medication, and cognitive behavioral interventions are often helpful, but not everyone finds lasting relief.

Now, science is catching up to something patients and physicians have been exploring for years: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) may be a powerful, life-changing tool in the treatment of PTSD.

What Is HBOT?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves lying in a pressurized chamber while breathing enriched oxygen. This seemingly simple act of increasing oxygen availability triggers profound healing mechanisms in the body. At higher pressures, oxygen dissolves more effectively into the bloodstream and tissues, stimulating cellular repair, reducing inflammation, regenerating damaged neurons, rewiring pain pathways and supporting overall brain health.

Originally developed to treat decompression sickness in divers, HBOT is now FDA-approved for multiple medical conditions including non-healing wounds, radiation injury, and carbon monoxide poisoning. And in recent years, researchers have been studying its effects on neurological and psychological conditions, including PTSD.

The Breakthrough in PTSD Treatment

In 2024, a groundbreaking clinical trial published in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry provided strong evidence of HBOT’s effectiveness for PTSD. The randomized, sham-controlled study followed U.S. combat veterans with treatment-resistant PTSD. After receiving 60 daily HBOT sessions, 68% of participants experienced at least a 30% reduction in symptoms, and an incredible 39% reached full remission.

These results weren’t just statistically significant—they were life-altering. Participants reported better sleep, reduced flashbacks, improved focus, and most importantly, a renewed sense of peace and purpose.

Read the full study here

Why Does HBOT Work for PTSD?

PTSD is associated with changes in brain structure and function—particularly in areas responsible for emotion regulation and memory. HBOT appears to enhance neuroplasticity, which means it helps the brain form new, healthy connections. It also reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, and stimulates stem cell activity, all of which can aid in healing physical and emotional trauma stored in the body.

In other words, HBOT doesn’t just mask symptoms. It helps rebuild the brain.

A Bright Future for PTSD Treatment

While HBOT is not yet a mainstream treatment for PTSD, growing clinical evidence and patient success stories are fueling advocacy and policy changes. From veterans’ groups to mental health clinics, more organizations are now exploring how to make HBOT accessible to those in need.

For individuals suffering from PTSD, especially those who’ve tried everything else, HBOT offers hope—a chance to finally feel like themselves again.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy isn’t just a breath of fresh air—it’s a breakthrough.

If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD, it’s worth exploring the potential of this safe, non-invasive, and deeply restorative therapy.

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Lyme disease, one of several infections caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is a tick-borne illness that can lead to persistent symptoms even after standard antibiotic treatment. For patients experiencing neurological or chronic effects, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a potential adjunctive therapy.​

What is HBOT?

HBOT involves breathing enriched oxygen in a pressurized chamber, allowing oxygen to dissolve more effectively into the plasma and other fluids and reach tissues with limited blood flow. Increased oxygenation and pressure enhance the body’s natural healing processes.​

Potential Benefits of HBOT for Lyme Disease

1. Enhanced Oxygen Delivery: HBOT increases oxygen concentration in the blood, aiding in the recovery of tissues affected by Lyme disease.​
2. Kills off the Spirochete: the bacterium that causes Lyme is a micro-anaerobe and dies when exposed to high levels of oxygen.
3. Reduction of Inflammation: Increased oxygen levels are a natural anti-inflammatory, and Lyme can create inflammation anywhere in the body, including in the brain.
4. Support for Neurological Symptoms: HBOT spurs neuroplasticity, helping the brain heal. Patients report improvements in cognitive function and reduction in neurological symptoms following HBOT sessions.​
5. Normalizes Immune Function: HBOT addresses immune dysfunction, often disrupted by Lyme and co-infections.
6. Increase the effectiveness of other medications: HBOT enhances the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Study Highlights

A 2014 case report published in the Journal of the Chinese Medical Association detailed the treatment of a 31-year-old male patient with chronic Lyme disease who experienced significant symptom relief after undergoing 30 HBOT sessions. The patient reported resolution of neurological symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, poor concentration, and sleep disturbances, as well as musculoskeletal issues like joint pain. The authors concluded that HBOT may serve as an effective adjunctive treatment for chronic Lyme disease, particularly in cases unresponsive to conventional therapies.

A 2023 ResearchGate systematic review and meta-analysis of fibromyalgia, a common diagnosis for people suffering from chronic Lyme and Coinfections, reports that HBOT  improved pain, tender points, fatigue, multidimensional function, patient global and sleep disturbance in FM, with reversible side effects. Low pressure (less than 2.0 atmospheric absolute) may be beneficial to reduce adverse events in FM.

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Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, as well as non-motor symptoms including sleep disturbances and cognitive decline. While current treatments primarily focus on symptom management, emerging therapies like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) are being explored for their potential benefits in alleviating non-motor symptoms associated with PD.​

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a neuromodulatory technique

HBOT involves breathing enriched oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases oxygen availability in the bloodstream and promotes enhanced oxygen delivery to tissues. Traditionally utilized for various medical conditions including non-healing wounds and decompression sickness, it has recently emerged as a promising neuromodulatory modality for treating neurological and psychological disorders. Studies indicate that it can promote brain recovery and neuroplasticity through the modulation of key cellular and molecular mechanisms, and it is now being investigated for its potential benefits in neurological disorders such as PD.​

Recent Study on HBOT for Non-Motor Symptoms in PD

A recent meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Neurology systematically evaluated the efficacy of HBOT as an adjunct therapy for treating sleep disorders in patients with Parkinson’s disease. The study analyzed randomized controlled trials and found that HBOT, when combined with standard drug therapy, significantly improved sleep quality, extended sleep duration, reduced daytime sleepiness, and improved motor function in PD patients. The authors concluded that HBOT has the potential to be widely adopted as an adjunct therapy for PD patients experiencing sleep disturbances. ​Frontiers

Conclusion

While traditional treatments for Parkinson’s disease focus on managing motor symptoms, HBOT offers a promising adjunctive approach that, in addition to improving motor function, may alleviate non-motor symptoms such as sleep disturbances, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for PD patients. 

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Long COVID has left millions struggling with lingering symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and chronic pain. Traditional treatments often provide limited relief, leaving patients searching for effective solutions. One emerging therapy showing remarkable potential is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT).

What is HBOT?

HBOT involves breathing enriched oxygen in a pressurized chamber, significantly increasing oxygen levels in the bloodstream and tissues. This process enhances healing, reduces inflammation, and supports cellular repair—making it an exciting option for those suffering from long COVID.

New Research Highlights HBOT’s Benefits for Long COVID

A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Medicine provides compelling evidence that HBOT can help long COVID patients regain their quality of life. Researchers reviewed multiple clinical studies and found that HBOT effectively addresses key issues linked to long COVID, including:

• Reducing chronic inflammation that contributes to lingering symptoms
• Promoting brain healing by improving oxygen supply to damaged neural pathways
• Enhancing mitochondrial function, which helps restore energy levels
• Improving microcirculation, supporting overall cardiovascular and neurological health

Patients who underwent HBOT reported significant improvements in fatigue, cognitive function, and overall well-being. The study reinforces the growing recognition that oxygen therapy could be a game-changer in long COVID recovery.

Read the full study here: Frontiers in Medicine

A Hopeful Future for Long COVID Treatment

As research continues, HBOT stands out as a safe, innovative, and effective therapy for those seeking relief from long COVID. With its ability to target the root causes of lingering symptoms, HBOT offers a beacon of hope for patients looking to reclaim their health and vitality.

If you’re struggling with long COVID, it may be worth exploring this cutting-edge treatment with your healthcare provider. The future of long COVID recovery looks brighter than ever!

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Unlocking Healing for TBI Patients: The Role of HBOT and Neurofeedback

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even those categorized as mild, can have profound effects on a person’s physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Conventional treatments often leave patients seeking additional solutions for persistent symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, memory difficulties, and mood disturbances. Emerging therapies like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) and neurofeedback are proving to be valuable allies in addressing these challenges.

A recent study published in Cureus highlights the promising synergy of HBOT and neurofeedback in treating mild TBI. This case report underscores the potential of these therapies to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals struggling with the lingering effects of brain injuries.

HBOT: A Game-Changer for TBI Recovery

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which increases oxygen delivery to the brain and other injured tissues and promotes healing. For TBI patients, HBOT has been shown to reduce inflammation, enhance neuroplasticity, and stimulate the repair of damaged brain cells. The study noted marked improvements in the patient’s symptoms, such as reduced headaches, improved memory, and greater emotional stability after undergoing HBOT sessions.

Neurofeedback: Rewiring the Brain

Neurofeedback, a form of biofeedback, trains individuals to regulate their brain activity. By providing real-time feedback on brainwave patterns, patients learn to foster healthier neural connections. In the case report, neurofeedback complemented HBOT by addressing the neurological imbalances associated with TBI, leading to further symptom reduction and enhanced cognitive function.

The Power of Combined Therapies

What makes this case particularly compelling is the integration of HBOT and neurofeedback. The patient’s progress suggests that combining these therapies can create a synergistic effect, amplifying the benefits of each. While HBOT fosters physical healing at the cellular level, neurofeedback facilitates functional recovery by optimizing brainwave activity. Together, they offer a holistic approach to TBI rehabilitation.

Implications for the Future

As awareness of alternative therapies grows, HBOT and neurofeedback are gaining recognition as viable options for individuals with TBI. This case report provides valuable evidence supporting their use, paving the way for further research and integration into treatment protocols. For patients and caregivers, these therapies offer hope for meaningful recovery and restored quality of life.

Spreading the Word

If you or someone you know is grappling with the aftermath of a TBI, consider exploring HBOT and neurofeedback as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. These therapies, backed by emerging studies like the one featured in Cureus, demonstrate that healing and recovery are achievable, even for those who have struggled for years with lingering symptoms.

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is gaining attention as a potential supportive treatment for breast cancer patients. HBOT addresses tumors metabolically, overcoming tumor hypoxia, which is considered one of the hallmarks of cancer treatment resistance. Even when isolated, HBOT appears to interfere with tumor growth, metastases, angiogenesis, and stimulates anticancer gene expression.

HBOT has also been shown to improve the effectiveness of certain chemotherapy drugs by enhancing their delivery to tumor cells. A radioenhancer, it sensitizes cells to radiation, increasing the effectiveness of radiation therapy. Moreover, HBOT significantly improves the quality of life for patients by alleviating common treatment-related side effects such as fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and cognitive issues like brain fog.

Another key benefit of HBOT for breast cancer patients is its ability to support wound healing after surgery. Many breast cancer patients undergo mastectomy or lumpectomy, and some may experience complications with healing due to radiation or compromised immune systems. Studies suggest that HBOT can reduce the risk of infection and promote faster recovery by increasing the concentration of oxygen in the blood, allowing the body to repair tissues more efficiently. This is particularly beneficial for those undergoing radiation therapy, as the treatment can cause damage to healthy tissues around the cancer site. HBOT helps improve blood flow and oxygenation in those areas, which can speed up recovery and reduce side effects such as radiation burns, chronic pain, and fatigue.

Additional studies provide strong evidence for the role of HBOT in cancer care. One study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) highlights the effectiveness of HBOT in promoting tumor retraction and mitigating aggressive tumor behavior NCBI Study. Another study from the Bergen Open Research Archive explores how HBOT aids in overall recovery by improving the therapeutic response to cancer treatments like radiation Bergen Open Research Archive.

In conclusion, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) offers promising support for breast cancer patients as they navigate treatment and recovery. By improving oxygen delivery to tumor sites and enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation, HBOT can play a key role in overcoming cancer treatment resistance. Beyond its anti-tumor benefits, HBOT is valued for its impact on patients’ overall well-being, helping alleviate fatigue, nausea, cognitive issues, and surgical healing complications. As research progresses, HBOT continues to show great potential as an adjunct therapy, offering a multi-faceted approach to improve both the effectiveness of traditional treatments and quality of life for breast cancer patients.

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Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has been traditionally used for conditions like decompression sickness, wound healing, and carbon monoxide poisoning. However, recent research has revealed its potential in the field of addiction treatment. By delivering pure oxygen at high pressure, HBOT increases oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which can aid in the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues, including those in the brain. For individuals struggling with addiction, this process can be particularly beneficial, as it helps to address the physical and neurological damage caused by substance abuse.

One of the key benefits of HBOT in addiction treatment is its ability to reduce inflammation in the brain. Chronic substance abuse often leads to neuroinflammation, which can exacerbate cravings and hinder recovery efforts. By reducing inflammation, HBOT can help to alleviate these symptoms, making it easier for individuals to focus on their recovery. Additionally, the increased oxygenation provided by HBOT can enhance the effectiveness of other therapies, such as counseling and medication, by creating a more favorable environment for brain healing and function.

Another significant advantage of HBOT is its potential to accelerate detoxification. The increased oxygen levels in the body can boost the efficiency of the liver and other detoxifying organs, helping to flush out harmful substances more rapidly. This can lead to a smoother and quicker detox process, reducing the severity of withdrawal symptoms and lowering the risk of relapse. For many individuals, this can make the initial stages of recovery less daunting and more manageable, increasing their chances of long-term success.

Research supports the promising role of HBOT in addiction treatment. A recent study demonstrated that HBOT significantly reduced alcohol consumption and cravings in alcohol-dependent rats. The study highlights the potential for HBOT to modulate brain activity related to addiction, offering a new avenue for treatment that could complement existing methods.

In conclusion, while HBOT is not a standalone cure for addiction, it offers a range of benefits that can enhance the overall treatment process. By reducing neuroinflammation, aiding detoxification, and potentially curbing cravings, HBOT provides a valuable tool in the fight against addiction, helping individuals achieve and maintain sobriety. As research continues to explore its full potential, HBOT may become an increasingly integral part of comprehensive addiction treatment plans.

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Aging is an inevitable process that brings about various physiological changes, often leading to a decline in physical and cognitive functions. In the quest for effective anti-aging interventions, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has emerged as a promising treatment. HBOT involves breathing  oxygen in a pressurized environment, which enhances the amount of oxygen dissolved in the body’s tissues. Recent studies, such as “Physical Enhancement of Older Adults Using Hyperbaric Oxygen,” have shed light on the potential benefits of HBOT in mitigating the effects of aging.

One of the primary advantages of HBOT is its ability to enhance cellular function and repair. As we age, the body’s natural ability to repair and regenerate cells diminishes. HBOT can stimulate the release of growth factors and stem cells, which play a crucial role in tissue repair and regeneration. The study “Physical Enhancement of Older Adults Using Hyperbaric Oxygen” demonstrated that older adults undergoing HBOT showed significant improvements in cellular health, including enhanced collagen production and reduced cellular senescence. This can lead to improved skin elasticity, reduced wrinkles, and overall better skin health, making individuals look and feel younger.

In addition to its cosmetic benefits, HBOT has been shown to improve cognitive function in older adults. Cognitive decline is a common concern with aging, often leading to conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. The increased oxygen supply during HBOT can enhance brain function by promoting neuroplasticity and reducing inflammation. According to the aforementioned study, participants who received HBOT exhibited better memory retention, faster processing speeds, and improved attention spans. These cognitive benefits are crucial for maintaining a high quality of life and independence in older age.

HBOT also has positive effects on physical performance and endurance. Aging is often accompanied by a decrease in physical capabilities, such as strength, flexibility, and stamina. The study “Physical Enhancement of Older Adults Using Hyperbaric Oxygen” found that HBOT could significantly improve physical fitness levels in older adults. Participants experienced increased muscle strength, better cardiovascular function, and enhanced overall energy levels. These improvements can lead to a more active lifestyle, reducing the risk of age-related diseases and promoting longevity.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy offers a multifaceted approach to combating the effects of aging. By enhancing cellular repair, cognitive function, and physical performance, HBOT provides older adults with a viable option to improve their quality of life. The findings from the study “Physical Enhancement of Older Adults Using Hyperbaric Oxygen” highlight the potential of HBOT as a groundbreaking anti-aging therapy. As research continues to evolve, HBOT may become a cornerstone in the pursuit of healthy aging and longevity.

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What is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of all cases and totaling approximately 6.2 million Americans. It affects memory and cognitive abilities, eventually becoming so severe individuals are no longer able to converse or react to their environment. There is no cure for the disease, and while pharmaceutical medications can temporarily slow the progression of the disease, round the clock care is eventually needed, and most patients live 4-8 years beyond their initial diagnosis. 

The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, however, research points to a number of different biological factors.  Protein fragments called beta-amyloid build up between nerve cells while tau (a different protein) twist up within the cells.  Hypoxia (the absence of sufficient oxygen in bodily tissues) is another contributing factor to developing Alzheimer’s Disease. 

A recent study showed that cerebral blood flow was reduced by 10-20% in Alzheimer’s patients with early symptoms. SPECT brain imaging also shows reduced blood flow upwards of 9 years before an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. New osteopathic research points towards impaired glymphatic function and venous flow from the brain, allowing toxins and cellular waste to accumulate and disrupt healthy brain function.

HBOT as a Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment is non-invasive, safe, and without significant side effects.  By increasing atmospheric pressure and breathing enriched oxygen, HBOT allows the body and brain  to absorb up to 3 times the normal amount of oxygen, improving the oxygen supply to tissues.

A study done in Tel Aviv shows regular HBOT treatment for Alzheimer’s patients have proven to significantly increase cognitive function.  Patients with early symptoms who were treated with HBOT saw up a 16.5% increase in cognitive performance and memory.  Before and after SPECT brain imaging demonstrated significant  improvement in cerebral blood flow. HBOT treatment also increases vascular function, creates new nerve and blood vessels, and reduces amyloid deposits. 

Patients treated with HBOT have reported improvement in memory, cognitive function, sleep, motor skills and reduced anxiety and disorientation. Regular and early HBOT therapy can slow or even reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease.

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Shay Gestal-Smith and Susie Therrien

Hyperbaric Vermont is excited to welcome two new members to our patient care team!

Shay Gestal-Smith is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach from Craftsbury, Vermont. She worked as a Physical Therapy Aide, collegiate soccer coach, and Certified Rolfer before starting her Functional Medicine practice in 2020. Shay is passionate about helping clients achieve their individual health goals and is excited about the healing effects of HBOT. Shay is an avid soccer player and professional musician, and enjoys spending time with her husband Taylor and their two cats.

Susie Therrien was born in Williston and graduated from UVM Medical School in 1993. She worked at Framingham Metro West Center & Shields Health Care in Oncology for nine years until she moved to Charlotte to raise her family. For the past 7 years she’s worked as an independent in home care provider for residents in Shelburne and Charlotte. She also serves asAd Manager for the Charlotte News. She’s also interested in holistic teachings, herbalism, nonfiction self help books, hiking, running, yoga, meditation, weight training, biking, spending time with community, friends and family.

Both of these women are great with patients and passionate about the healing power of HBOT. We know you’ll enjoy working with them as much as we enjoy having them around!

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