top of page
Man experiencing PTSD symptoms

PTSD AND HBOT

Historically, medical professionals have used HBOT to help accelerate the healing process for physical injuries. But most recently, caregivers have started to explore it as an alternative treatment for brain-related conditions, such as chronic PTSD.

PTSD & HYPERBARICS

Historically, medical professionals have used HBOT to help accelerate the healing process for physical injuries. But most recently, caregivers have started to explore it as an alternative treatment for brain-related conditions, such as chronic PTSD.

HBOT’s potential lies in its ability to encourage neuroplasticity. Previous studies have shown that fluctuating between elevated and normal oxygen levels can trigger various biological processes, such as stem cell activation, angiogenesis, and mitochondrial repair, which can lead to improved brain connectivity and function. This phenomenon, known as the “hyperoxic-hypoxic paradox,” has already demonstrated an ability to boost cognitive function in other situations, such as post-concussion syndrome and stroke.

The findings were promising. In the HBOT group, 68 percent of participants showed at least a 30 percent reduction in PTSD symptoms by the end of the treatment. That’s compared to only 4 percent of those in the control group.

Additionally, 39 percent of HBOT patients achieved complete symptom remission, compared to none of the placebo group participants.

Beyond PTSD symptom relief, the HBOT group also showed notably improvement in depressive symptoms and a drop-off in self-reported stress and anxiety levels.

Thinking Man on Couch

HOW HBOT CAN HELP

Enhance Neurological Repair & Regeneration

  • Attenuates the Effects of Hypoxia & Inflammation in the Brain

  • Increases Penumbra Tissue Recovery

  • Induces Remyelination

  • Enhances Stem Cell Mobilization and Proliferation

  • Moderates Mitochondrial Disorders

  • Promotes Neurogenesis

  • Stimulates Neuroplasticity

Mental Health & Wellness

  • Enhances Memory and Mental Performance

  • Develops & Regains Cognitive/Motor Functions

  • Stimulates Neuroplasticity

  • Enhances Executive Function

Improve Overall Function

  • Advances Cognitive Function

  • Alleviates Spasticity

  • Enhances Speech & Language

  • Improves Gross/Fine Motor Skills

  • Lessens Frequency of Seizures

  • Stimulates Better Eye Contact

  • Improves Balance & Walking

The Brain

  • Improves Memory & Reaction Time

  • Promotes Neuroplasticity

  • Decreases Emotional Distress

  • Improves Cerebral Blood Flow

  • Stimulates Neurogenesis

Research Rundown: HBOT for PTSD

STUDY

Eve DJ, Steele MR, Sanberg PR, et al. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a potential manage for post-traumatic stress disorder associated with traumatic brain injury. Neuropsychiatr Dis Manage. 2016;12:2689–2705. Published 2016 Oct 20.doi:10.2147/NDT.S110126​

Harch PG, Andrews SR, Fogarty EF, et al. Case control study: hyperbaric oxygen manage of mild traumatic brain injury persistent post-concussion syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder. Med Gas Res. 2017;7(3):156–174. Published 2017 Oct 17. doi:10.4103/2045-9912.215745​

He H, Li X, He Y. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy attenuates neuronal apoptosis induced by traumatic brain injury via Akt/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway. Neuropsychiatr Dis Manage. 2019;15:369–374. Published 2019 Jan 25. doi:10.2147/NDT.S183632

bottom of page