HBOT

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing higher concentrations of oxygen while pressurizing the body to pressures greater than normal 1 ATA (the pressure at sea level). Instead of using high ATA (3 – 5 ATA), which can potentially have various side effects, it has been shown in past 20 years that using low ATA (1.3 – 1.6 ATA) can produce similar positive health benefits with almost no side effects. Our clinic uses the highest quality 1.6 ATA mild HBOT chamber available.

The process is achieved inside a specialized chamber within which the patient comfortably breathes 95% Oxygen while the ambient air inside our chamber may contain between 60% and 70% oxygen while the pressure inside the chamber is gradually increased.  Based on laws of physics – Boyle’s law, Henry’s law, and Dalton’s Law – breathing oxygen under pressure allows oxygen to be dissolved into plasma portion of the blood.  Under normal conditions, plasma does not carry oxygen, that is left to the red blood cell and hemoglobin.  Dissolving oxygen into plasma allows it to carry oxygen at least four times further into the body’s tissues which results in a much higher concentration of oxygen within the body – as much as 1,200% higher!

But why would you need or want to increase the concentration of oxygen in your body? Under normal conditions, the air we breathe contains a mixture of gases, of which only about 21% is oxygen. This is generally sufficient for the body’s basic functions in those with normal lungs.  However, elevating the oxygen level in the body creates a whole cascade of benefits both in the immediate short term as well as more long term (if done enough times).  It is this cascade of benefits that enhances and accelerates the body’s ability to repair itself, generate energy, and create an environment in which inflammation is suppressed and regenerative healing is promoted.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is simple – just sit back, relax, and breathe normally.  Prior to your first session you will first have a consultation with one of our doctors. This consult is to evaluate you for HBOT, confirm there are no contraindications, and establish a protocol most appropriate for your condition(s) to meet your health goals.

During this time, your doctor will also explain how the science behind hyperbaric oxygen therapy works to help the body, and receive an orientation on what is needed before you start treatments, as well as the daily process of preparing for each session.

At the beginning of each session, a technician will check your vitals and review a safety checklist, affirming you have removed all jewelry, watches, and electronic devices, and are free of lotions and perfumes. They will also provide you a 100% cotton gown and blanket for a safe and comfortable experience.

During the entire treatment, a technician will be present by the chamber to guide you, particularly while you descend to your prescribed depth, where you may experience an ear-popping sensation (like when flying on any airplane), as well as attend to any needs or questions you have during your session. Finally, at the end of your session, the technician will again take your vitals.

How many sessions a person needs depends on the severity of the health concern. While many people may benefit from a single session, often times more complex conditions may require more frequent treatment.