Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy was viewed with skepticism for a long time. Some physicians considered it an experimental intervention, while others recommended it outside validated indications. Today, things are clearer. There are international guidelines, well-established indications, and published studies supporting the proper use of this therapy in certain medical conditions.

If you are recovering after surgery, dealing with a wound that heals slowly, or looking for complementary options to support recovery, you need evidence-based information. Understanding the real benefits, limitations, and scientifically validated indications helps you make an informed decision appropriate for your medical situation. Here is what you need to know!

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and How Does It Work?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% medical oxygen inside a specialized chamber at pressures higher than atmospheric pressure. Normally, we breathe air containing 21% oxygen at 1 atmosphere (1 ATM). Inside the hyperbaric chamber, the pressure reaches 2–3 ATM.

This increase in pressure allows a larger amount of oxygen to dissolve directly into the blood plasma. As a result, oxygen reaches tissues with poor vascularization, where hemoglobin cannot transport enough oxygen. According to studies, this mechanism explains the usefulness of hyperbaric therapy in conditions where tissue hypoxia delays healing.

Physiological Mechanisms Supported by Clinical Studies

Medical literature describes several effects demonstrated through controlled studies. Specifically, hyperbaric oxygen therapy:

• increases oxygen diffusion in ischemic areas;
• stimulates angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels);
• activates fibroblasts and collagen synthesis;
• reduces edema through controlled vasoconstriction;
• inhibits the growth of anaerobic bacteria;
• modulates the inflammatory response.

These mechanisms explain its effectiveness in chronic wounds, severe infections, and vascular complications. For optimal results, therapy should be integrated into a personalized recovery plan rather than applied in isolation.

Approved Indications in International Guidelines

Medical Emergencies

HBOT is considered a standard treatment for:

• decompression sickness;
• gas embolism;
• carbon monoxide poisoning;
• severe anemia in selected situations.

Acute Infections and Ischemia

HBOT is used as an adjunctive therapy in:

• necrotizing fasciitis;
• gas gangrene;
• compartment syndrome;
• traumatic ischemia with risk of amputation.

Chronic Conditions

Evidence exists for its use in:

• chronic ulcers, including diabetic foot ulcers;
• refractory osteomyelitis;
• post-radiation injuries;
• compromised grafts;
• retinal artery occlusion;
• adjunctive recovery after stroke.

For active adults or post-operative patients, early intervention may shorten recovery time and reduce complications.

Applications in Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

Amateur and professional athletes frequently seek solutions for more efficient recovery after sprains, muscle tears, or surgical procedures.

HBOT may contribute to:

• reducing post-traumatic inflammation;
• accelerated healing of muscle and tendon injuries;
• optimizing recovery after orthopedic surgery.

For example, after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, therapy can be integrated into the physiotherapy program to support tissue regeneration. HBOT does not replace exercise or physiotherapy, but it may complement the treatment protocol.

For parents seeking modern recovery solutions for children with orthopedic conditions, proper evaluation determines whether there is a real indication. The medical team decides based on the diagnosis, age, and stage of the condition.

Why Have Controversies Appeared?

Some discussions stem from scientifically unvalidated uses. Online, there are frequent claims associating hyperbaric therapy with:

• treating all forms of cancer;
• guaranteed anti-aging effects;
• treating multiple neurological diseases.

Randomized controlled studies are lacking in many of these situations or show inconsistent results. According to current evidence, hyperbaric therapy does not cure cancer. There is evidence supporting its use in post-radiotherapy complications, not as a primary oncological treatment.

Contraindications and Risks

Any medical intervention requires prior evaluation.

Absolute Contraindications

• untreated pneumothorax;
• administration of certain medications in specific situations.

Relative Contraindications

The physician carefully evaluates cases involving:

• COPD;
• acute respiratory infections;
• claustrophobia;
• history of seizures;
• recent ENT procedures.

Review the detailed list of hyperbaric therapy contraindications before scheduling treatment.

Possible Side Effects

• ear discomfort caused by pressure differences;
• temporary myopia;
• rarely, seizures induced by oxygen toxicity;
• hypoglycemia in diabetic patients.

Careful monitoring and adherence to protocols reduce risks. Results may vary depending on the diagnosis and individual response.

How Does a Session Take Place?

Before starting therapy, the physician performs a clinical consultation, reviews the medical history, and establishes the indication. This stage offers clear benefits: it identifies risks and allows protocol customization.

A session lasts approximately 90–120 minutes. After entering the chamber, pressure gradually increases while you breathe pure oxygen through a mask. You may feel pressure in your ears, similar to what happens during a flight. Medical staff continuously monitor you.

The number of sessions varies:

• 3–5 sessions in certain emergencies;
• 20–40 sessions in chronic conditions.

For orthopedic recovery, the physician adjusts duration and frequency according to the patient's progress.

Hyperbaric vs. Normobaric Oxygen Therapy

Normobaric oxygen therapy uses increased oxygen concentrations at pressures close to atmospheric pressure. Hyperbaric therapy involves increasing pressure above 1 ATM. The additional pressure allows oxygen to dissolve into plasma at levels that produce documented clinical effects. This is why only hyperbaric therapy has standardized medical indications.

Why Is Hyperbaric Therapy Now Accepted by the Scientific Community?

Its current acceptance is based on:

• studies published in indexed journals;
• protocols validated by UHMS and the European Committee for Hyperbaric Medicine;
• integration into university hospitals;
• its use as adjunctive therapy within multidisciplinary teams.

What Services Does Centrokinetic Offer?

If you want to include hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a recovery plan, the medical context in which it is performed matters greatly. Centrokinetic provides access to integrated evaluation and recovery services in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, and Timisoara, ensuring that the indication for HBOT begins with a detailed medical consultation.

In Bucharest, there is a hyperbaric medicine center equipped with a 5-seat Baroks chamber operating at a constant pressure of 3 atmospheres and using protocols adapted to each indication. At the same time, you can continue with medical recovery, physiotherapy, physical therapy, and other services depending on your condition and treatment goals. In this way, hyperbaric therapy remains an adjunctive intervention integrated into a clear treatment and monitoring pathway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy suitable for every patient with joint pain?

No. The physician must determine whether tissue hypoxia or a valid indication exists. In many cases, physiotherapy remains the main treatment, while HBOT may complement the therapeutic plan.

How many sessions are needed for visible results?

It depends on the diagnosis. In chronic conditions, most protocols include 20–40 sessions for optimal results. The physician adjusts the treatment plan according to the patient's progress.

Is the therapy safe for children?

It may be used in certain pediatric indications, but only after rigorous medical evaluation and careful monitoring. Speak with a specialist before making a decision.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical consultation. Speak with a specialist before deciding on therapy. Early intervention and proper evaluation increase the chances of effective recovery. Schedule your consultation at Centrokinetic today!

Sources

• [1] “Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy - Mayo Clinic.” Mayoclinic.org, 2025, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy/about/pac-20394380. Accessed on Feb. 25, 2026.
• [2] Ortega, Miguel A., et al. “A General Overview on the Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Applications, Mechanisms and Translational Opportunities.” Medicina, vol. 57, no. 9, Aug. 24, 2021, p. 864, pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8465921/, https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina57090864. Accessed on Feb. 25, 2026.