Evidence Based Use of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) to Increase Stem Cells, Balance Hormones and Reduce Inflammation

Jason Sonners, D.C., Ph.D., DCBCN, DIBAK, CHP

Board Member, International Hyperbaric Association; Faculty, Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs (MAPS) & International Board of Undersea Medicine; Owner & Clinic Director, Core Therapies Family Wellness Center, New Jersey HBOT, Hyperbaric & Function Medicine Clinic, HBOT USA

In the United States hyperbaric oxygen therapies (HBOT) have been used very effectively for a short list of severe conditions ranging from osteomyelitis, osteonecrosis, gangrene, non-healing wounds, diabetic neuropathy, crush injuries & radiation burns. This therapy is relatively noninvasive, safe and effective for improving patient’s recovery and healing times from these acute and severe conditions. Chronic inflammatory illnesses on the other hand, which affect 6/10 Americans and are the driving force behind the $3.8 trillion health care costs in the US, destroy our quality of life and reduce our ability to be contributing members of society. Some of these conditions include autoimmunity, neurodegenerative, musculoskeletal degenerative, cancer and many others. Initial studies on hyperbaric therapy point to specific mechanisms of action at work when used for 14 traditional insurance based hyperbaric indications. There is evidence which suggests that the mechanisms for these “on label” acute and severe cases would be similar or even identical to the mechanisms required by most chronic illnesses to also improve their outcomes and recovery times. Hyperbaric can be delivered a number of ways, from mild pressure to high pressure and lower oxygen levels to higher oxygen levels. The exact amount of pressure, oxygen and frequency of dives required for improvement is not known for the majority of hyperbaric indications. Current hyperbaric research also shows that intermittent and relative hyperoxia-hypoxia is a strong stimulator of many cell signaling and epigenetic signaling cascades used for the promotion of healing and adaptation to an accelerated regenerative response. Hyperbaric has the ability to help rebalance hormones, improve healing times, stimulate stem release and is finally finding its place within the field of regenerative medicine.